A needed message for the next generation: My review of "Live to Give" by Austin Gutwein

ABOUT THE BOOK

Want to do something for God but don’t know what? Want to help others but don’t know who? Want to know what it is you’re really good at doing? Your gifts may feel small and insignificant. But God can use them to work a miracle! 

Inspired by the biblical story of the feeding of the 5,000, Live to Give delivers a message of hope that we all have something to give. Written in the down-to-earth, candid voice of the gifted young man who as a kid founded a relief ministry that has saved and improved countless lives in Africa, Live to Give is the message that every teen needs to hear: You are more special than you know, and you can do big things. 

Jesus proved that no gift is too small when He used five loaves and two fish to feed a crowd of thousands. And if no gift is too small, too ordinary, or too random, there is no limit to what the youth of today can accomplish! 

A teenage philanthropist who has built a high school, two medical clinics, and a dormitory in Africa—all before the age of 16—Austin Gutwein shares how to take what may seem like the simplest of talents, gifts, and interests and use them for something Jesus can use to move mountains.

MY REVIEW

Live to Give is an incredible call to live a radical life of both excitement and sacrifice, as the author urges us to realize that God has made us to give back to the world around us. The book is written in easy to read chapters, with "study questions" at the end of each chapter that are designed to make you think about what is unique about you, what gifts God has given you, and how to go about using your talents and time for his purposes and glory. I did find some of the chapters a bit repetitive, but overall feel it a worthwhile read, and one that both teens (the target audience) and adults will enjoy and be inspired by. Austin Gutwein is an individual worth reading about, someone who didn't let his young age hold him back but instead put feet to his faith and has made a significant difference in this world. His message is one worth spreading, especially for the next generation who is looking for purpose in a world that often seems so hopeless.

I definitely plan on recommending this book to the teenagers I interact with on a regular basis, and hope that they take this message and run with it, learning that they have been given so much by God, gifts that they can use to bless the world around them. I award this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

As founder of Hoops of Hope, Austin started what is now known as the worlds largest Free-Throw marathon. Austin's Hoops of Hope has raised more than $2.5M to help orphan children in Africa. Austin also serves as Co-Chair of Arizona Governor Jan Brewer's Youth Council. As a highly sought after speaker, Austin has spoken and shared his heart in venues around the world. In 2009, Austin was selected into the Caring Hall of Fame as one of the top 10 most caring Americans.

Austin's first book, "Take Your Best Shot" shared stories that captured readers hearts and won a Moonbeam Award. Austin's second book, "Live to Give" will be released by Thomas Nelson in August 2012 and can be pre-ordered on Amazon.com. Visit Austin's Author page to view a video about one boy whose life was changed.

For information on booking Austin or general inquiries, please visit www.austingutwein.com.

This biography was provided by the author or their representative.

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