Book Review and Giveaway: Start Here by Alex and Brett Harris

Alex and Brett Harris are twin brothers who as teenagers wrote the book “Do Hard Things“. This book inspired teens around the world to make the most of their teen years. But their readers were left with the question – “How do I get started?” Thus, the book “Start Here” was born.

The Harris brothers blog at Rebelution and this is how they describe their book:

“We wrote this book because we know a lot of you want to do hard things for God, but you don’t know where to start. We wanted a book we could hand to any teen who is ready to tackle some hard things — whether it’s a big project, a fundraiser, or struggling to balance everything God has already given you. Read this book, then go out and do hard things!”

Is it strange to admit that though this book is written for teenagers, I was deeply motivated by them? Here’s a few of the golden nuggets I personally gleaned!

1. “We don’t get it together and go – you more often get it together by going.” pg.33 I have felt this way with blogging. As far as the technology has gone, I had NO clue what I was doing on day one. I have come a long way and I got it together simply by just grinding away and doing it!

2. “Some obstacles and opportunities will not become visible until you are in the middle of your project.” pg. 32 So true! The ministry of Women Living Well has taken many twists and turns that I could never have planned for, imagined or manipulated into happening. Being on the Rachael Ray Show is one of the twists and opportunities that I never expected!

3. The Obstacle of Pride – Proverbs 27:21 says “The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.” I have been flattered by some generously kind emails. In the book the story of Corrie Ten Boom hit me HARD! For starters, I am named after Corrie Ten Boom – so when I hear a quote by her, my ears perk up and I listen intently.

Here’s the story recounted from page 55: “When people come up and give me a compliment – ‘Corrie, that was a good talk,’ or ;Corrie, you were so brave,; I take each remark as if it were a flower. At the end of each day I lift up the bouquet of flowers I have gathered throughout the day and say, ‘Here you are, Lord, it is all yours.”

Beautifully put Corrie!

4. Busyness does not mean I am diligent. Busyness does not mean I am faithful. Busyness does not mean I am fruitful.”pg 56 Bummer, cause I feel so busy – but it’s not a proper gauge!

5. The best way to remember God’s calling in all our decisions is to know God more. When we set aside time – whether on a Sunday or another day, whether in the morning or late at night – to simply be with God and not “do” anything for Him, we become better equipped to serve Him.” pg. 61 Ultimately, it’s about our walk with the King!

This book is a great read and I am so pleased to have one to give away to one of my readers! If you are a teen, have a teen at home, in your church or in your extended family that you think could benefit from this book – leave a comment below. I will be randomly choosing a winner on Saturday, March 20th at 10pm.

If you do not win, you can purchase a copy at RandomHouse.com

Walk with the King!

35 Comments

  1. Just found out about the first book on Sunday in our church's book shop. Checked it out fromt eh library Monday. Would So love to win this for my son!!

  2. Sounds like a great book, thanks for introducing us to it. I have 2 teenagers that would love to have it.
    Thanks,
    Daina

  3. Would love to win this book. We are youth pastors and I think it will really encourage our students.
    Lisa

  4. sounds intriguing! Just wondering if you read their first book, and if so, do you think it's a prerequisite for the new one…..

  5. This book sounds so practical and helpful. Thanks for the review! My son is just heading into this age, and this book would be a perfect tool for his life.

  6. I think I remember hearing about this two boys at one time. I have two teenagers who I would love to win this book for.

    Thanks for the review and the giveaway.

  7. My oldest son just became a teenager *last week*! He's smart, funny and (mostly) kind. However, he lacks motivation and I'd love to offer this book to him as a resource. Thanks for the opportunity!

  8. This sounds like a wonderful book not only for teenagers, but motivational for adults too! I'm going to buy a copy for my granddaughter who just turned 15 and is just developing her heart for God. If we win a copy, I'll give it to my next in line granddaughter who is a tween and an avid reader. She is active in church and also has a heart for God. Teens talking to teens! What a concept, huh?

  9. I am always trying to find books that I can get my husband to read with me. This looks like a good one for that! If it can motivate a teenager it can motivate the rest of us too.

  10. I have two teen age sons and this goes along with what we've tried to teach them all their lives. What great insight! Thanks for all you do!

  11. I have 2 teenage boys who would love this book. So glad I found your blog! I look forward to reading your posts daily. Keep up the good work!

  12. I had no idea they had another book! Exciting!!!! My daughter and I loved the first book and she really has taken it to heart. Before the end of last summer she researched, contacted people and started Operation Christmas Child on her college campus. She is always looking for more. I would love to win this book, I know my daughter would gobble it up. 😉

  13. My oldest turns 13 in 2 weeks! I would love this book as we embark on this new adventure!

  14. I am so excited to hear how many of my readers have teens! I love getting to know you all better! Thank you for the window into your lives!!
    Courtney

  15. Anonymous,
    I have not read their first book – so no it's not a prerequisite to reading this one :-)!
    Courtney

  16. What a great insperation these boys have left for those who feel called to do hard things for the Lord and yet feel overwhelmed as were to begin. My daughter is right there and this book would be a great resourse for her. Thanks for all your book reviews. It helps us so much.

  17. Hi Courtney,
    Sounds like a great book! Would love to win this for the teens in my life! It seems that it is harder for teens to stay grounded these days. This book would definitely help!
    Thanks!
    Julie

  18. I can't believe I am the mother of two teens, but as of April … they will both be officially in their teen years, and one is even driving. 😉 I would love to have this book to share with them. It sounds like a great inspiration for critical years of life.

  19. I would love to win this and give it to my 18 year old Cousin, Molly!!! 🙂

    thecountryblossom AT hotmail DOT com

  20. I loved their Do Hard Things book. I loaned it to a teen and never got it back…hopefully they read it and got tons of great stuff out of it. Maybe I'll win this one to fill it's spot? lol We've been doing youth ministry for about 10 years now.
    God Bless
    Suzy

  21. Courtney, this book sounds so "worth it!" I have a teen and a pre-teen and my desire is always for them to love and serve the Lord now and all their days. This book sounds helpful to that end. I'd love to win. Thanks for entering me! Jenny C. email is orosco99@juno.com

  22. Sounds like a good book to read and be prepared! My lil girl is almost there and I hope to continue to have a good relationship thru the tough teen years. Please enter my name into the give-away!

    Blessings,
    Heather

  23. I heard these brothers on a radio broadcast recently…didn't know they had a new book! GREAT! My brand-new-as-of-last-week-thirteen-year-old daughter would read a book like this, I hope! 🙂 ~Kim A.

  24. My son will be a teen in only a few short months and THIS would be a perfect book for him! He will do great things someday ~ just hoping he uses his potential for the Lord. It is THE hardest thing as a mother to see your child spreading those wings, flapping hard, and being confronted with all directions to fly in. Losing the right to choosing what direction they fly in is something I doubted would be difficult when they were small. Now I know better. What a great guide and encourager this book seems to be!

    Heatherj
    indigo52 at cox dot net

  25. This sounds like a great book! My husband and I have been involved in youth ministry for the past 3 years. We're always looking for new resources to encourage teens.

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