And Jesus, Booze, Popular: Boys

Tindell Baldwin I would say is quite brave to share her story. It's not easy to open up about past mistakes and really share your heart with people, so they gain insight into how badly mistakes can rattle our life. Considering her target are teens I think she expresses herself very well. I can imagine that her story will impact many teens and help even those who have made mistakes and may feel bogged down by them. That was honestly my favorite thing about Baldwin, she doesn't just focus on the people who haven't made mistakes yet, because she knows how it feels to have a message prepared for prevention, but not one that gives hope to those who have already messed up.

Summary: Tindell grew up in a fairly normal family. She was one of the middle children with three other brothers, and a mom and dad. The biggest thing her family would have to work to fight for was her mother who had a chronicle illness. Despite Tindell's normal upbringing and that she had no signs of being of the statistics she somehow found herself drawn to the world of being popular. To be popular though it requires sometimes sacrificing attributes of yourself that will hurt to miss later on. She began drinking and using drugs to fit in, and when it came to boys she felt an ever present want to have to sex to connect to the idea of love.

Characters: As with most books, I'm just not a fan of writing in past tense. The characters fall a little flat despite everyone in the story being real people. They would be a lot more alive and impacting if they were told as if they things they were doing were happening in the now. Tindell though I believe will be an easy to relate to person for most teenage girls. She struggles with most girls do even if they deny it. On some level all girls want to fit in somewhere and be accepted. I think she has a little wrong about the girl she talks about in novel named, Inker though. She said that she envied Inker because she believed she had something she didn't have as a child, which was an identity that didn't look to please others in the popular crowd. I am someone who might have been more like the oddball girl who liked to read as Inker was though, and I can say that just because I wasn't conforming to the popular crowd didn't mean I struggled to not have some sort of identity that didn't always mesh with where I should have had my identity in Christ.

Writing: As said earlier, the writing is very past tense, which for me was difficult to read because it doesn't involve the reader in the action is much. I get she was writing in past tense though to lead into points at various points during each chapter though. I just felt it could have been better tied together with the points and story by carrying it all the way through with more action involvement.

Plot: The basics of the book is to give teenage girls a person to identify with, and hopefully keep them from making the same mistakes or give hope to ones who have. I loved some of Baldwin's insights into life. She seems like a really intelligent female writer who didn't just set out to write a book and make it very bland as far as the message. She really tries to fuse into the emotions that wreaked havoc on her life after bad decisions, but also the hope she found in God once she became more involved in her faith. I believe that my favorite insight is why God gives us the chances he does despite our constant sinning, and she compares it to how humans don't get frustrated at a dog's inability to not talk because he can't. Read the book, she says it more catchy than I can.

Popular is a lot better than I expected. Some books trying to reach out to teen girls just feel flat and not like they have passion for the actual person they are speaking to. Baldwin though just wants to share her life experience, which she knows isn't anything too out of the ordinary, but she wants to share how it can negatively impact you as a female if you do make those choices because she feels that part of the subjects of drinking, drugs and sex is being left in telling teen girls. She also goes over the frustration of being a woman, but also the things to be thankful for regarding the fact that you are a woman. I have often struggled with the fact that I feel I was dealt a bad card in being born a woman, but I loved her passages from the Bible and the hope she gives to women on how only women have specific inner and outer beauty qualities only females can have.

Rating 8 of 10.

This book was provided by Tyndale in exchange for a review.

"I want to write this book with the kind of utter honesty that makes people uncomfortable. That might sound weird but until we're brutally honest about important issues, we won't know how to tackle them." The author's hope is that teenage girls will learn from her mistakes before they have to make those same kinds of heartbreaking, sometimes life-threatening, mistakes themselves. It's a powerful story, an amazing testimony of God's grace, and it touched my heart. I recommend it for any teenage girl. But, not only that, I recommend it to any woman in general. I guarantee it will move you and resonate with you. The author is so sincere and real, unafraid of baring it all in the conviction that her story will change someone's life. We need more of that in this world.

Tindell Baldwin had one focus in her teen years: to be popular by any means possible. She began drinking, smoking, doing drugs, having sex. In her memoir "Popular: Booze, Boys, & Jesus" she tells that although she had an amazing family who loved her unconditionally, although she was pretty, although she knew all about Jesus; she still was trying to fill a perceived emotional void that she ultimately determined could only be filled by God.

She is very transparent in this memoir, sharing very raw and vulnerable parts of her story. In no way is she trying to make herself look good, or downplay any of the choices she made. The book is divided into two parts, "Dark" and "Light" - and she is very open about what her decisions cost her. I can easily recommend this book for anyone, but especially for a teen going through a tough time and/or a parent of a child who is struggling. This book will give you hope.

In this beautiful memoir, Tindell Baldwin shares her journey from searching and heartbroken to redeemed and loved. Really, she was loved all along, and that's what Tindell wants you, the reader, to know. The Healer of cracked hearts, broken homes, and unreachable dreams loves you no matter what. Tindell's story proves it.

"Popular" is the raw story of a girl who wants to be accepted and loved, and it's also the story of a girl who doesn't realize that she already is. It's the story of grace and forgiveness. It's a story and message that should be shouted from the rooftops. If Tindell hadn't settled on "Popular" for the title, I would have suggested "Redeemed," because that is the overwhelming feeling you get when you close the back cover and set the book down. I highly recommend it to teens and their parents. Even more than that, I recommend it to any woman, because we've all experienced these emotions, and many of us have experienced first hand these mistakes and heartaches and the recovery and renewal that comes from giving our lives to Jesus.

The teen years can be very difficult. So many people get mixed up in the wrong crowd. Popular by Tindell Baldwin is amazing book that discusses those hardships. The book takes you through the destructive path that so many teens take and the emotions that come with those choices. Baldwin tells her story of how she was raised in a Christian home, but choose to walk away from the Lord. The story however does have a happy ending after going through so much pain and sorrow she recommitted her life to Jesus.

The way the author is able to tell her story about sex, drugs, alcohol, and so much more is so intriguing. Reading the book just draws you into her story and you feel like you were the one going through everything. The great thing about the book is both teens and moms will love it because of the topic matters. The book is hard to put down. I highly recommend this book for moms with teen girls.

I was given this book by Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review.

Popular is an honest look into the lives of many teenage girls. Tindell's vulnerability sheds light on the very real struggles that girls face in their developmental years. Growing up in an amazing home with parent's who believed in Jesus and took me to church, I could relate with so many of the struggles that Tindell expresses in this book. No matter your upbringing, the evil in this world can be very powerful in a young girls life, and it is a constant battle to make wise choices. This book shed's light on the pain and heartache that is caused when wise choices are not made, but it also points to the truth that Jesus is the ultimate Healer and showers his children with grace and forgiveness. It is so evident that the heart of this book is to reach those girls who are struggling through their teenage years with the truth of the peace, acceptance and joy found only in Jesus. I highly recommend Popular for any teenage girl to better understand that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is a very clear answer found in Jesus. It is so beautiful to see that God is using Tindell's past to bring glory to His name. I believe this can be a life changing book for so so many as it is evident that the ultimate story is Jesus.

Tindell Baldwin's story is a story of the great attempt to outrun the grace of God.

As a child growing up in a family that was steering Baldwin in the direction of God, she decided to waver from the course set by her parents and live her own adventure. On this "adventure" she tried to find life & fulfillment in worldly pleasures...which immediately & ultimately left her empty.

There is one thing that this adventure did not leave her empty of, and that is pain. The emotional pain she experienced from wavering caused grief and anxiety. It's truly backwards...people consider the things of the world & try to squeeze life from these vessels of guilt & shame, but they only end up being the one that is squeezed dry.

Baldwin's story is honest, transparent, and raw. She pulls back the veil so that others who are considering wavering or who are wavering will return & submit to the love, affection, and softening grace of God.

Girls, both young & old, are falling for the lies from the mirror, magazines, and men. They need to hear the truth & see the truth from one who at one time believed the lies.

This is a story worth sharing with every female.

Note: I received a copy of this book from the Tyndale House Bloggers Review Program in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive view.

Popular: Boys, Booze, and Jesus is a memoir following through the teen and early college years of Tindell Baldwin (at the time, Tindell Stanfill--the sister of Christian artist Kristian Stanifill). It is a story that begins in the depths of pain and darkness that appears to have no end. When all hope seems lost, Tindell finds herself at the foot of the cross, her choice to surrender or die. To choose the light of Christ, or the blackness of eternal separation.

Tindell grew up in a Christian family. She had loving parents, three fun brothers, and a good life. But it wasn't enough for her. She decided that she didn't want the life of rules that her parents had for her--she'd rather have some real fun and join the "popular" crowd. She even wrote God a letter telling Him, "Good-bye."

Throughout her journey, she found herself taking one compromise after the other. It started with one drink. Then it wasn't enough, so she had another. Then that wasn't enough either...

Popular tells Tindell's painfully honest story. The story that she longs for every teenage girl to hear--that they might learn from her mistakes, and learn of the breathtaking value and beauty that they can find in Jesus.

One of my favorite quotes from the book is this, "Next time some guy grabs you and gives you a sly wink, give him two pieces of a tree, three nails, a hammer, and a crown of thorns and tell him to prove it--prove that he can pay the price that it takes to get your heart."

I must say that I truly enjoyed this book--the prose was beautiful, the honesty refreshing, and her redemption inspiring. I found myself mentally noting quotes from the book (like the one above); such raw words, with such powerful truth! I especially loved the chapter that she talked about her mom and dad. Such humility and honor.

The words that she had for young women were all so true, such refreshing words that need to be heard. Reminders of the worth and love that they can find in Jesus, and encouragement to find grace in Him, no matter where they have been. Proof that God can turn ashes of our bad choices into the beauty of His grace...if we are willing to ask Him and surrender.

I will say, however, that this book is not for everyone. The topics of alcohol, drugs and especially sex are heavy in this book--as is understandable. There are no technical details, but specifically with the topic of sex, there was much mention and discussion on proper context. There was also a tinge of slightly more coarse language in the text (example: words like "sucked"), and dashed out profanity.

I would advise caution for a parent giving this book to their Christian daughter under the age of 18 unless they are struggling with these issues personally. I will say though, that the encouragement that she had to offer was such a blessing to me personally, I do believe that it's a message that every girl needs to hear--but just at the right time. My suggestion would be for a parent to read over it first to evaluate whether it is right for their daughter.

I would highly recommend this book if you know of a young lady that is currently struggling with the issues mentioned above. Tindell provides such beautiful insight, her tone so sisterly, it is the perfect resource for a lost young lady in search of love and acceptance, shedding light on the truth of the Gospel and reaching her where she is.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Wow, Tindell Baldwin did not pull any punches! She was very open to what happened during her teenage years. I am so glad I got the chance to read it. Being a leader of a small group of girls, I now have a better way of conveying the truths that need to be spoken. Not just the "rules" but the emotional and physical consquences that can follow an action. By showing what Jesus did for us and how forgiveness is offered in His blood even for the things we think are unforgivable, we need to point teens to Jesus with love. This book deals with a lot of issues that I know, as an adult I have forgotten. I highly recommend this book to all that work with teens/youth.

I was excited to read this book because I knew it was going to be an honest experience. I like reading about real people and past experiences. Also, I figured this book would hit pretty close to home and my life story. Boys, Booze, and Jesus describe this book and the lives of many people, not just teens. I love Tindell's story, she doesn't not sugar coat anything and simply states her choices, the motivation behind them, and the outcome.

One of my favorite parts about this book is when she is talking about being in church, after becoming a Christian, and hearing a person talk about sex before marriage. This person states the many reasons why it is not a good thing, but not once talks to the people who have done that and are now in church feeling broken about it. She talks writes how while growing up everyone told her it was a bad thing, but they never said why, they just said don't do it. For some of us that answer is not good enough.

Tindell includes a ton of lyrics and verses throughout this book to parallel what the Bible says about such topics.

I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend to not just teens, but anyone who wants to read a great story of God's forgiveness and grace.

"I received this book from Tyndale Publishing in exchange for an honest review."

Although I do not know Tindell personally, we grew up in the same neighborhood and church community. When I read the book summary I was immediately intrigued because her story had many similarities to mine. I'm now 27 years old, married, and have left my troubled youth in the past - but reading Tindell's story in her own words and her commentary on how God used her experiences and mistakes to shape her character gave me closure I didn't realize I was lacking. Reading this book gave me a new perspective on my own story and left me in awe of how great our God is. When I have a teenage daughter one day and want to tell her my story, I will definitely have her read Tindell's book. She writes in a way that is captivating and easy to relate to as a young girl. She sounds like an older sister or a wise friend, not someone judgmental or haughty. Thank you, Tindell, for being so willing to yourself out there. This book is not just for teenage girls! I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to gain insight into the decisions we make in our youth and how they affect our character.

God's way is the best way. I may repeatedly tell my teenagers that, but Tindell puts feet to it and makes it real. As a middle age mother, I found comfort in Tindell's words as she recognized God's intervening grace and love in her life. If you are a mother of a teenage girl who is testing the boundaries, this book could give a glimpse into what she may be dealing with and how to respond. I might recommend reading it before giving it to your daughter so that you can talk about it together. There are aspects to which we can all relate to and talk about - listening to lies and trading something good for something bad because it appears to be more self-gratifying at the moment.

I had the opportunity to read the book with my 17-year-old daughter (strong-willed, independent and stubborn) and her teenage friend Miranda. In summary, they thought the author was too hung up on the idea of popularity when there are so many other reasons that girls may choose boys and booze. Here are their thoughts, one more enthusiastic than the other:

Miranda's review: I think the temptations that teens face are more about getting away from feelings and wanting to have fun more than it is about being popular. Feelings are exaggerated and sometimes they just hurt really bad, and to escape them is a big part of it. Apart from that, I could really relate to what she had to say - especially about her first love, the heart break, temptations to have sex. I wish I had read this book sooner.

My daughter's review: I don't like to read often unless it is a book that pulls me in from the start and has an awesome plot. This book was not one of them. The title of the book made me not want to open it - my mom had to bribe me. The word "popular" is out of date. I don't know a single teen that has sex, does drugs, and drinks just to be "popular." We do it because it feels good or maybe relieves pain we are feeling. This book has a lot of repetitiveness about popularity and I felt like the writer was just trying too hard. The second part of the book did get better. It didn't repeat as much, it was just slower than the first part of the book.

We received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishing in exchange for our honest review.

In this gut-wrenching autobiography of the author's nearly life-ending quest to be Popular, Tindell Baldwin paints a clear picture of the alluring enticement into the teenage world of popularity and the utter destruction that comes from behaviors associated with being cool. Baldwin leaves nothing to the imagination as she bravely shares intimate details of her struggles with sex, drugs, drinking and other self-destructive behaviors. More importantly, she introduces the reader to Jesus Christ, who chases after His prodigal children, redeems their lives and restores their souls. This is a book of heartache and hope, destruction and restoration, rebellion and redemption. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

OH MY GOODNESS IT'S SO GOOD!!! Tindell is brave and honest and so relatable. There is hardly a page in the book that I didn't highlight something. Every sentence is beautifully written and priceless words every high school girl NEEDS TO HEAR!

This would be a great book for teens, especially those experiencing some of the same problems and issues that faced and entangled the author. The title really makes it clear what the book is about. The author tells her struggles openly and honestly and the change in her life due to Jesus is wonderful and inspiring!

Popular is an emotional journey of Tindell giving away all she had to be popular but ultimately finding redemption and true love from her Savior. This book is captivating from the first page. Tindell writes with such rare vulnerability and honesty that draws you in and makes you want to read the next page. This book is such a gift to teenage girls and to their parents...allowing teenage girls the chance to see down the road and hopefully spare them from some of the heartache tindell experienced, while also giving parents a look into what some of their kids might be up against in the middle, highschool and college years. I highly recommend this book!

I just finished Tindell Baldwin's book, Popular, a few weeks ago and was blown away by her vulnerability and honesty. The story of her struggles, dark places and insecurity brought me back to my teenage years and shined a light on strongholds that still remain in my life from that time. It is a book that I wish I had read when I was a teenager; one that could have helped me put my finger on the emotions I was struggling with. It is a beautiful story of redemption and how we are never too far from the love and grace of our Father. A must read for teenagers, mother's of teen girls and and, really, any woman who has ever been a teen before!

Popular tells a story all teens (and teen parents) need to hear. Tindell tells her story of honest rebellion and searching for comfort in the wrong things with guts and raw transparency. This book sums up a loving God that picked his daughter up out of the pit and placed her in a bigger story, His story! Full of scripture and foundational truth for a full life in Christ, this is a story every soul needs to hear.

This is an incredible, honest, heart wrenching true story about a life redeemed and restored! Tindell is so honest about struggling with her greatest desire in high school: to be popular. What high school girl doesn't? This is an amazing and beautiful read that will make you cry over what's lost, then cry over what's found. I highly recommend it!

What a beautiful story of God's redemptive grace and love! Her story is that of so many adolescent girls who struggle with "fitting in" socially and "filling in" that void that only Christ can fill. A very raw, very real portrait of God's beauty for ashes.