Book Review: "Strong: How God Equipped 11 Ordinary Men with Extraordinary Power (And Can do the Same for You)" by Catherine Parks

I recently reviewed Catherine Parks’ biographical work for girls, Empowered, so jumped at the opportunity to read and review her newest book, a biographical work for boys. “Strong” is categorized as juvenile non-fiction, making it the perfect read for your middle schooler. I, however, thoroughly enjoyed it myself, as well, and learned quite a bit in reading it. Therefore, my recommendation would be to view this book, as well as Catherine’s book for girls, as a fantastic family read-aloud that everyone can enjoy and learn from. Another reason I encourage you to read this book along with your children is because it will undoubtedly spark some pretty amazing conversations, so you want to make sure you’re there for that!

“Strong” shares how God worked in and through the lives of 11 men and what we can learn from their examples:

Alvin York: Generosity

George Mueller: Faith

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Courage

Brother Andrew: Obedience

Elka of the Wai Wai: Standing Alone

Eric Liddell: Knowing What Matters

John Newton: Godly Ambition

William Carey: Humility

George Liele: Compassion

Jim Elliot: Sacrificial Love

Jackie Robinson: Endurance

I entered into the reading of this book already familiar with several of the men in this list, but certainly not all. And even when reading the biographical sketches of men I already knew of, I still learned quite a bit I had not known before, making it thoroughly enjoyable.

Catherine’s writing style really pulls you into the story, while also making it very readable and easily accessible. What I really love, too, about the way the book is set up is that each of the 11 chapters ends in the same way: with a mini essay, if you will, offering a takeaway lesson of how you can live out the character quality you read about and apply it to your own life. Then follows a series of reflection questions and Bible study questions. With all that in mind, I look forward to the day when I can share this book with my own little boy and watch it expand his mind in the areas of history and Bible, both.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and think you will, as well! It would make the perfect addition to your family’s library or even to your homeschool curriculum. It is sure to inspire the boys in your life with vision, purpose, and excitement over the myriad of ways that God can use them to make a difference right where they are.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!