Book Review! *PLEASE READ*

I just finished a book that some would call life-changing. It's one that you read super quickly to see which gold nugget of advice comes next..... And then reread a month later and rediscover each and every word.

I Wasn't Dead When I Wrote This (NO! This book is not as morbid as the title makes it sound 😉) was written by Lisa-Marie Calderone- Stewart, a Catholic woman, youth minister, and mother who worked with and mentored youth throughout her entire adult life, specifically focusing on encouraging leadership skills in young people. She died at the age of 53 after battling cancer for over two years.

When she was a few weeks from death, Lisa-Marie was asked to write a book for the teens she would never meet or get to encourage on their journey. I Wasn't Dead When I Wrote This is that book.

I truly believe that this is one of the most valuable books that anyone could read. Catholic or non-Catholic, teenager or adult, whoever you are, this book will change the way you view living the life that you were meant to live.

I'd say this book is for everyone- because it is. But I would especially recommend it for Catholic Teens. Christ came that we may have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). That includes our earthly lives. This book is like a Catholic teen's graduation speech, long conference session at a youth conference, mentorship, and pep talk for abundant life all rolled into one. But it's manageable.

And it's beautiful. And it's one book that I will read and read again.

It's also unexpected. Lisa-Marie does not mention Catholicism in her book. I believe that's because she wanted to reach everyone. As many teens as possible, no matter who they were. I think she knew and hoped that if any teen who read her book lived their lives following the lessons she shared, they would find Christ and be with Him in Heaven forever.

This will now be my graduation gift. So, if you're someone I know who hasn't graduated yet and you're reading this- prepare yourself 😉😊.

Here's the link if you'd like to try it out!