Crash Course is a 100-day devotional manual targeting teenagers. The author wants to help his readers become followers of Christ by discussing five critical areas: doctrine, decisions, direction, devotion and delight. Each of these areas is addressed in 20 two-page devotionals, complete with an introduction, bottom line summary, application, prayer and passage of Scripture. The book is biblically sound, with a few especially helpful insights and, conversely, a few miscues. Daniel Darling writes in a colloquial, rather simple manner, in his effort to relate to teens. Whether or not this book and its approach will engage teens is not something I am personally able to discern. I would be interested in the feedback of young people who have actually read the book. However, if parents are looking for devotional material that addresses issues teenagers wrestle with Crash Course would be worth considering.
by Daniel Darling (Birmingham: New Hope Publishing, 2010) 222 pp, paper, $6.98
Reviewed by Gary E. Gilley, Pastor-teacher at Southern View Chapel