rebelling against low expectations
Have you taken the WriterScore yet? We released the WriterScore to help young people measure their growth and development as writers. It’s an assessment that gives you a numerical score — which translates into one of four categories. You’re either a Dreamer, a Starter, a Planner, or an Achiever. A lot of thought and nuance went into the actual scoring system. It’s not just a vanity...
I’ve dreamed of writing a book for as long as I can remember, but I never thought it was actually possible. Teens like me don’t get published. Until they do. Because I did. And not because I’m special (seriously, not at all!). It’s because, after writing for several years, I became aware of the strategy for success. I found a community and a mentor, worked as hard as I could, and it eventually...
Most people believe that teenagers can’t get published. At least, not “normal” teenagers. It takes outrageous talent, famous connections, or astounding luck. Just like making it to the NFL or winning the lottery. It’s a common cultural assumption: normal young writers like you or me could rarely, if ever, get published. But what if that was just a myth? What if that assumption is not so accurate...
Six years ago, I had no idea how to be a writer. Well, that’s not quite accurate. I was writing at the time, so technically I was a writer. But I didn’t know how to grow as a writer. I didn’t know where to find motivation. I didn’t have a strategy for success. I didn’t have a mentor. I didn’t have a writing group. I hadn’t developed solid writing habits. I was undisciplined and regularly suffered...
“Technology is so immersive, it’s like oxygen.” So says Tony Reinke, a senior staff writer and researcher for desiringGod, who has studied culture and technology for years. “It’s so around us that we don’t even recognize technology as what it is. We’re sort of bathed in technology, if you will.” He’s right. In our day and age, technology is pervasive, and, in our culture...
T’is the season for gift lists galore. Gifts for the home cook or the movie buff or the traveler. Gifts for your best friend, gifts for your nephews and nieces, gifts for your parents. This is a gift list for your teens. Parents, you’re scratching your heads this Christmas, wondering about their wish lists, debating over video games and smartphones and Netflix subscriptions. Put aside your fears...
I love listening to podcasts. (Probably too much.) But there’s something fun and personal about listening in as real people have conversations about something meaningful (or, for that matter, about something utterly silly). I started listening to podcasts last year, shortly after I turned 18. But as I searched and stumbled across more and more podcasts, I noticed something – I couldn’t find many...
I don’t know about you, but I’m always on the hunt for fantastic resources for Christian teens. I’m forever on the lookout for the best books, blogs, music, movies, videos, and podcasts to edify and encourage us. One of my favorite things is to get recommendations from other young people. Which is why I thought I would share my top resources with you. Below, I have 2 books, YouTube channels...
This summer I become an adult. At least, according to my country. I turn 19, and that basically means I can do lots of boring things legally — like get a credit card. My, what fun. It’s weird to think that I’ll be labeled a “grown up.” I still feel like I have a lot of growing up left to do. And I do! But I’ve grown up a lot since I was 13. Or 14. Or even 15. And...
Last year Kevin DeYoung wrote this: “We must be careful: with Holy Week there is the risk of sentimentalism swallowing up substance.” We’re nearing the end of what has traditionally been called Holy Week. It’s the week leading up to the formal recognition and celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ on Good Friday and Easter. But there is a danger in this week, one that too many...
rebelling against low expectations
