Whatever – devotions for tweens by Allia Zobel Nolan

Whatever (a faiThGirLz book)
Author: Allia Zobel Nolan
Paperback: 294 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (2012)
Language: English
ISBN: 978-0-310-72534-3
Price: $9.99

Ages: “Tweens”

Reviewed By: Janice D. Green

Rating:     

Who hasn’t seen a Jr. high girl roll her eyes and say “Whatever?” Yet this “whatever” theme takes on new meaning in Allia Zobel Nolan’s 90-day devotional for tweens. The book is organized around one of my favorite verses, “…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things,” (Philippians 4:8) as she divides the devotions into each of these categories.

From white lies to cheating to attitude adjustments and much more, Allia Zobel Nolan has crafted each three-page devotion with stories and discussions that will capture the imaginations of tween girls in real-life settings. The scripture passages are well selected to inspire girls, and the discussions give them tools to help them navigate the challenges of the teen years.

Each devotion is completed with “Food for Thought,” “Second Thoughts,” and “Divine Thoughts.” The first two are general take-aways or insights to something about the scripture passage that might otherwise leave unanswered questions, and the Divine Thoughts are brief prayers.

What do I like about this book? Everything. It is engaging and encourages the readers to apply real faith to real situations.

What do I dislike about this book? Nothing, unless I complain that I don’t have any tween girls in my everyday life to share this book with. I’m going to have to find some.

I was given a copy of this book for review, though I was under no obligation to give a good review. This review contains my honest and enthusiastic opinions, for which I have not been compensated in any way.