Sunshine for the LDS Teenage Soul

by John Bytheway (Editor)

For the young person who would like to read something that's fun and upbeat but that still packs a powerful message, here is a book that is sure to please. Created specifically with the needs and interests of Latter Day-saint teenagers in mind, this volume brings together 101 outstanding stories (and a sparkling of poems) that address such pertinent topics as friendship, prayer, self-worth, service, testimony, family and goals. This dream team of writers' words will entertain and at the same time motivate, encourage, and caution young readers. Plus, as a rich source of inspiration, it can be a great help in preparing a talk or lesson.

Genres: Religion, Young Adult, Inspirational, Lds

297 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

About the author

John Bytheway (born October 1962) is an American author and academic, who is well known as a comic motivational speaker for youth within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Born in Salt Lake City, Bytheway attended the University of Utah and Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah, receiving a Master's Degree in Religious Education. He also served as a missionary for the LDS Church in the Philippines.

Bytheway is a religious studies instructor at BYU, currently focusing on the Book of Mormon. He also serves on the Aaronic Priesthood/Young Women Writing Committee for the LDS Church. Bytheway and his wife Kimberly have six children.

Reviews

[Heidi-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful, uplifting talks that have helped me through many things since.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this series. They have very good stories about living the way Jesus would want us to. I am hoping to get my children to read this book and some of the others in the series.

[Danni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these books they are so uplifting and inspiring. Some of the stories are really funny as well.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always enjoyed these types of books, so of course I loved it. Even if one story doesn't resonate with you, another will. Some will make you laugh, and one of these stories will certainly make you cry.

I will say, I do wish there were more stories in here by teenagers/young adults, as quite a few of them were adults looking back--not to say there can't be a few of these, but they took up the majority of the book. I'm assuming it's because they didn't get enough teenage submissions, seeing as this is the first volume for teenagers, but there were a ton of repeat adult authors.

Also, the ending to stories could be a little preachy at times, and I kind of just skimmed those. Maybe I would have paid more attention to that if I was a teen and needed to hear those words, but seeing as I'm a young adult, I've worked through most of that teen angst. :P

Still, it was a really good book, and I highly recommend it.

[Suzanne Lorraine Kunz Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has so many good stories and ideas and concepts in it. I would recommend it to any teen!

Talking points too many to give this book justice - Is it better to resist sin or repent from it? How should you make your choices in life . . . doing what you feel is right? Or not wanting to look bad in front of your friends? Can their be consequences for putting off something you feel is right to do?

This book could spark great parent child conversations or change a teens life as they ponder precepts of their own. Highly recommended!