My Generation: A Real Journey of Change and Hope

by Josh James Riebock

Y is the generation of tattoos, cell phones, social networking, and iPods. It is the generation of authenticity, social justice, racial diversity, and community. But it is also the generation of broken homes, school shootings, immense performance pressure, loneliness, selfindulgence, and insecurity. Christians have largely failed to bring restoration to this 70 million member group of young people. What are we missing? And what are the consequences if it doesn't change? Foregoing formulas, models, and snappy acronyms (which don't work), Josh James Riebock offers readers a journey deep into the soul of a generation that is slowly being transformed from within. Whether pastors, volunteers, church leaders, friends, or members of generation Y themselves, readers will value this honest and hopeful look at restoring a broken generation with the lifechanging power of the Gospel.

Genres: Christian, Christianity

224 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2009

About the author

Josh was raised near Chicago, in a loving home that also featured alcoholism, hoarding, and a buffet of other peccadilloes. After college hopping for five years, Josh took a job at a church, where he worked for three years as a youth pastor. It was there that he became reacquainted with his childhood love for telling stories— Speaking of love, it’s also during that time that he got married to Kristen, a girl that he grew up just a few houses away from.

Hungry for something a bit different—and certainly a warmer climate—the two of them moved to Austin, where Josh joined another church staff. The following year would be one of the most eventful of his life. It began with Kristen and Josh adopting their dog/son, Ditka, whom they became instantly obsessed with. Then, after nearly six years of working in churches, Josh decided that it was time to chase his long dormant dream of becoming a writer. So he quit his church job. But before he could really enjoy his newfound pursuit, both of his parents died only weeks apart. And while this was, and remains, the most difficult time in his life, it has also played a crucial role in making him into who he is today, shaping the way he writes, speaks, and interacts with the world.

In 2009, Baker Publishing Group released his first book, My Generation. His newest book, Heroes and Monsters, was released in the spring of 2012. Josh maintains a busy travel schedule, speaking around the country at conferences, colleges, and churches. And yes, he really enjoys it very, very much.

If he isn’t writing or speaking, he’s probably in Austin, Texas, spending time with Kristen and Ditka, or reading, fiction probably, maybe something by Daniel Wallace or Dave Eggers, or he might be watching an 80's movie, or talking about football with his friends.

Reviews

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really unique. We live in Generation Y, a generation that is a mix of so many different things, many good, but many more bad. We are lost, broken, and hurting. Josh James Riebock writes to help you escape the pain, grow spiritually, and hopefully affect the rest of your generation so they can experience the same. What made this book so unique though was not just the fresh, God-filled words of wisdom he spoke, but how the entire book is written using examples in his own life. For every lesson there is a Tom or a Mary or a Sue who taught him or helped him, or that he taught and helped. This was what made me give the book a full 5 stars, because it is so many authors talk about what we should be doing, and how we should be doing it, but Riebock's life shows you how it can actually be applied in practical ways. He is invested in this book and takes the time to share his triumphs and his failures, something that many people won't do with their closest friends sometimes. And that makes all the difference.

[Emeshea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! Story after story of how Josh has been transformed throughout his life to be more like God. Great insight into our generation and the trends in society today. I feel so much more prepared to battle my own demons and help others in their walk toward the Cross. Anyone who wishes to minister to Gen Y should read this book.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Josh James Riebock seems like a great guy, who I would love to spend time with. We share a lot of similar beliefs and values. However, I rated the book a 3/5 because the reading was kinda dry. Overall, I enjoyed the stories and message, I just wish the writing held my attention more.

[Connor Anderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quick read, but extremely cheesy. Pretty shallow theology

[Hope Rozenboom · Rating 5 out of 5]

While clearly influenced by Donald Miller's writing, "mY Generation" is no knock-off. Josh shares his own stories and thoughts in his own brand of the stream-of-consciousness style. Each chapter explores a different aspect of the experience and worldview of Generation Y (the generation after Generation X--basically people born in the 80's and 90's), and a hope for the redemption of our generation.
There are plenty of challenges in this book. The one that really spoke to me was the challenge to really love people in and through their sin. To not just say "this area of your life is sinful, call when when you've fixed it," but to stick with them in their struggles, speaking truth into their lives in a loving manner. Tapping away at the issues rather than expecting them to come crashing down in a second.
I am certain I could read this book again and come away with a new challenge. But I'll need some time to work on this one first.

[Navjot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before reading the book, I researched it a bit, more than I would normally research a book before I read it. Still, going into it, I didn’t expect to learn what I did from the book: to listen.

Each time I put down the book, between sections, between chapters, and then when I finally finished it, I always came away thinking, Wow, so the key is to listen.

And throughout the book, Josh was able to use what he’d heard to share why listening is so crucial.

[Note: I'm probably not that great of a reviewer. This is totally opinionated - I'm not even trying for objectivity. This is just what I learned, what I took away from the book... and what I hope to share with you.]

[Deanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing style of this book was interesting. The author brought up some good and thought-provoking points. I especially liked the parts about meeting people in their "mess", inviting people in and losing the false facade, and giving grace. I had never thought much about relevancy before, but I found the author's thoughts on relevancy as humility to be intriguing and probably the most noteworthy explanation in the book.

[Ashley Lamb · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me a long time to read this book, and I'm usually a pretty quick read. I think part of the reason is that I didn't want it to end. It's as if I was afraid that I'd lose or forget what I'd learned through reading this, which is silly. The thoughts and ideas expressed in this book are ones that I will continue to meditate on. I highly recommend this book to any believer, and especially to those who are working in youth ministry. To describe this book in one word: relevant.

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met Josh the other day and I've listened to him speak to us and I'm so fascinated by his life and everything he has to say. He's an extremely nice guy, and I am excited to finish my autographed copy of mY Generation.

[Trenton Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Takes real life stories and applies great lessons to life. Perfect for anyone who feels broken inside.

[Beciann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book..

[Shelly Mc · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read!

[Duane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really liking it. Josh has a great love for people and he's a great engaging writer. Hope to see more.

[Pam Howell]

I found this book challenging me ... It caused me to engage in self-examination. My hope is to grow.

I appreciate Josh's style of communication.

[Hoffer]

I really liked this book. It helped me see what other people go through and face some of the stuff that I have struggled with

[Tylaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good book with a good message.

[Abby Frye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I heard Josh speak and I laughed a lot. I went out and bought this book right after and loved it. Engaging. Thought provoking. Well written. Filled with honesty.

[Jack Ippel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book! Everyone, not just people in ministry, should read it.