Book Review for Graceful (For Young Women): Letting Go of Your Try-hard Life

This summer I was hanging out around my house having a glass of wine (because, let’s face it, that is when I get some of my best ideas) and suddenly the thought that I should start a bible study with a few of my brother’s girl friends came to mind. I’m assuming this sort of idea was more due to divine intervention than the merlot. Within an hour of mentioning this to my brother and mom, I had four beautiful girls willing to trust me to guide them closer to Christ and a suggestion for our first book. That book was Graceful (For Young Women) Letting Go of Your Try-hard Life by Emily P. Freeman. Let me tell you, this was the most perfect book for my girls and myself.

The book was specifically written with young women (high school-ish) in mind. I can honestly say though, it spoke to my heart and was incredibly relatable even though I’m a few years older. The book is directed to the “good girl” in so many of us. Emily dives into many of the different good girl personas that exist, what those girls fear and are hiding from, and how they can be redeemed in the name of Christ. There is even a quiz available in the free leader’s guide online to find out exactly which personas you relate to most! The overall theme is that all of us can find freedom in the grace of God. Emily’s stories throughout the book are relatable and sparked many great conversations at our weekly breakfast. Each point she made was backed up with scriptural evidence. These scriptures were great for the girls and I to ponder on until the next meeting.

I would highly suggest this book to any girl (or woman) struggling with internal and external pressures to behave a certain way. As reiterated throughout the book, God gives us grace! I want to thank Emily from the bottom of my heart for writing Graceful and providing free resources for leaders. Since this was my first time attempting to lead, it reduced the learning curve and lessened my anxiety.

On a personal note, God has blessed me so much with these four girls! We are currently in the middle of book #2 and they continue to surprise me each week we meet. Their honesty and openness has made our group special. I sincerely hope I get to continue to see them grow in their faith and into amazing young women who personify Proverbs 31.