NCLA Review -Written by 19-year-old twin brothers, this book challenges teenagers to stop thinking of adolescence as the last bastion of childhood and use the period to attempt hard things that will shape their character for meaningful adulthood. As the brothers illustrate from their own and others’ experiences, “hard things” doesn’t necessarily mean unpleasant things. Rather, they are vehicles for growth, stretching oneself by voluntarily taking on responsibilities that are usually reserved for adults. Such as daring to apply for internships to Alabama ’s Supreme Court (successful), though they were only 16 and had never been away from home. Later, they set up an immensely popular blog to encourage other teens to join the “rebelution” against low expectations. The book is packed with inspiring stories of teens who responded. Although the authors agree that doing the hard thing will pay off for anyone, they are obviously evangelical Christians. My one reservation about the book is that teens unaccustomed to the language of conservative Christians may not give its message a hearing. Rating: 3 —DKW 241p, cloth, Multnomah 2008, ISBN 13: 978-1-60142-112-8, $16.99 [YA 248.8] ( )

The Harris brothers are challenging everything this culture believes about teenagers. Through their book and website they have started a movement called "The Rebelution". It is a call for teens to do hard things and rebel against low expectations. Most teens today are hardly expected to do chores, let alone make a mark on the world, but the Harris twins argue that teens are in a very unique place and time to tackle big things. Using real life examples of themselves and teens around the world, Alex and Brett encourage teens to get up and make a difference. Some examples include leading political campaigns, providing housing for low-income families, feeding the homeless...all in BIG ways, by people under 17 years old. A true call to action for teens and young adults, and an inspiration for any age. Well written; presents the whys and hows, and real-life stories. A must read! ( )

I may be past my teenage years, but this book is simply inspirational. It gives you a whole new perspective on the world and speaks the underlying truths of today's society. It makes you realize that God has given everyone more potential than they know, and if we push ourselves past what the world says we are capable of, we can be the strong individuals we were intended to be. I strongly recommend this book for everyone: trust me, it will change your life. ( )

I'm fourteen, so when I first read this book I was expecting it to be written for teenagers. It's written for the world. Alex and Brett Harris challenge you to move outside of your comfort zone and overcome the sluggish habits of discontentment and laziness. If you want to change the world around you or find a purpose for your life...read this book! ( )

Alex and Brett Harris have hit upon a real need in the world today - a rethinking of the teen years. In their book they encourage teens to rise above the low expectations society has placed on this age group. They encourage teens to do things that seem beyond their reach and to grow from those experiences.

Adults will also find inspiration in this book. Not only will they too be inspired to do hard things, adults will also be inspired to rethink the way they view teens in today's society.

This book in highly readable for teens and adults alike. While much of the material in the book talks about taking a stand for Christ, the basic premise is applicable to anyone no matter what their beliefs. I recommend it to teens, parents, and people who work with teens - especially those who need reenergizing. ( )