2022 Pop Sugar Reading Challenge-a book about gender identity.

This book confused me more than anything else.

As a teacher in a busy main stream secondary school (High School) I wanted a deeper understanding of the issues some pupils encounter in our society. I found this book helpful as it gave me a deeper understanding of the complex nature of the issues, not least the sense of isolation and vulnerability of pupils experiencing the issues. The book also explores Christianity and its response to the issues. it was a helpful read.

This is a wonderfully thoughtful and academic response to emerging gender identities, while also remaining compassionate and loving. This book is a much needed voice in the conversation for pastors and leaders within the American Church. As culture wars rage and fear drives response on both the left and the right, this book offers a way of thinking about complex issues affecting real people (particularly young people) that more fully aligns with scriptures command to love and not fear. This book practical and insightful drawing from their experiences working with gender minorities and those experiencing varying degrees of dysphoria, as well as from extensive research and biblical study.

While this isn’t the book written to those experiencing gender dysphoria or those wrestling with their gender identity, I would highly recommend anyone in Church ministry to read this. Particularly those who are leading youth, and parents of youth.

An important read for Christian leaders walking alongside young people in any capacity. If nothing else, chapter 8 is such a great resource. This book says so much of what I have believed and thought for so long but could never articulate. In a conversation that must be had so delicately, I appreciate how much nuance the book is able to have.

Cons: The first few chapters are very dense, especially for those not familiar with terms associated with the LGTBQ+ community. You definitely should take these slow if that is you. I also think that the language used around the 3 lenses and terming one a “disability lens” is already a bit outdated with new ways the disability community has begun to reframe disability.

Yarhouse and Sadusky lay out very biblical and practical ways to walk with those wrestling with a multitude of different circumstances.

A strong recommendation!

This is a wonderful book that guides Christ followers (particularly student/youth ministry workers and parents) on how to engage with youth who are struggling with gender identity. The book is well-researched and filled with compassion. I appreciate how the authors navigate such a difficult topic and remind us that ALL people are made in God’s image and worthy of dignity, respect, fellowship, and love.