With the popularity of YA fiction novels like The Hunger Games and All American Boys, you could say violence is on the minds of many young readers. Not surprising, given the rise of violence in our culture. I still remember how horror swept the country for months after the Columbine… Read More »Violence in Clean YA Fiction: How Much is Too Much?
I love online personality tests and aptitude quizzes. You know, the ones that tell you your strengths and weaknesses and why you might struggle with a specific skill set while another comes naturally. My most recent Enneagram test floored me when it bluntly declared, “Lauren, you struggle with frustration because… Read More »Every Christian Teen Is a Leader. Learn How to Do It Well.
Three things no one has ever said: “I want to be friends with a liar.” “I voted for that candidate because he’s the best liar.” “That company will always have my business because I can trust them to lie about their products.” Few people, Christian or otherwise, will dispute the… Read More »The Truth About Honesty: Is it Ever Okay to Lie?
Sex sells. According to multiple sources across the net, roughly 85% of movies—including 68% of G-rated movies(!)—contain sexual content ranging from innuendo to full-out intercourse. Approximately 73% of all music videos contain sexual content, with the highest percentages in Hip-Hop and R&B. For video games rated “teen,” over 30% include… Read More »Not a Hint: Living Pure in a Sexual Culture
When it comes to young adult literature, sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopia continue to be strong-selling genres even as diversity gains traction in the YA scene. There’s something about stretching the boundaries of reality that appeals to teens (and the many adult readers of YA literature). But of course, finding suitable… Read More »Books for Christian Teens: Clean YA Sci-Fi, Fantasy, & Dystopia
When was the last time you made a mistake? I can think of three or four I made in the last hour, though they’re not ones I will remember for years to come. But I can think of five or ten right now that I made years ago and can’t… Read More »Bad Landings: How to Move On After a Mistake
The day you turn 18 is likely one of the most highly anticipated moments in your high school career. You are legally independent! Your opinion matters on the political spectrum! You can move out of your parents’ house! Whether you’ve already crossed that threshold or are awaiting its approach, I want… Read More »Transitioning to Adulthood: Advice For Christian Teens
No matter how much time you spend prepping in front of the mirror, you still feel ugly. You know the answer to your teacher’s question, but you don’t raise your hand. You’d like to be friends with the girl who sits next to you in social studies, but you worry… Read More »Proverbs 3: How to Start the School Year With Confidence