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Go Bravely: Becoming the Woman You Were Created to Be
As a young Christian woman, do you struggle with insecurities and feel bogged down by the pressures and expectations of society? Do you find it challenging to take care of yourself and be a faithful daughter of God?
Emily Wilson Hussem used to feel the same way. In Go Bravely , the Catholic musician and speaker offers twenty bits of advice that will equip you to tackle your deepest concerns about relationships, self-esteem, and dating while strengthening your faith at the same time.
"Sometimes even the smallest acts of living out faith require great bravery."
In Go Bravely , Wilson Hussem offers readers warm and friendly encouragement as she shares her experiences with other young women as their youth minister as well as her own struggles with insecurity, relationships, loving and forgiving herself, and living her faith. You’ll feel right at home as she challenges you to be a light in the world while simultaneously offering you easy-to-digest advice on your most pressing questions.
Fresh off figuring out who she is as a daughter of God, how to cultivate healthy friendships, how to save sex for marriage, and how to develop a prayer life, Wilson Hussem gives you advice about what she learned in the midst of becoming a young woman. Aware of the information overload that young people face today, she shares simple wisdom for bravely living your faith, such These are basic ideas, Wilson Hussem says, but taking care of yourself and loving others are easy tenets of our faith to forget. A book that can be read in short snippets or in one sitting, Go Bravely offers you the encouragement and tools you need to live out your Christian faith with purpose and zeal.
Emily Wilson Hussem used to feel the same way. In Go Bravely , the Catholic musician and speaker offers twenty bits of advice that will equip you to tackle your deepest concerns about relationships, self-esteem, and dating while strengthening your faith at the same time.
"Sometimes even the smallest acts of living out faith require great bravery."
In Go Bravely , Wilson Hussem offers readers warm and friendly encouragement as she shares her experiences with other young women as their youth minister as well as her own struggles with insecurity, relationships, loving and forgiving herself, and living her faith. You’ll feel right at home as she challenges you to be a light in the world while simultaneously offering you easy-to-digest advice on your most pressing questions.
Fresh off figuring out who she is as a daughter of God, how to cultivate healthy friendships, how to save sex for marriage, and how to develop a prayer life, Wilson Hussem gives you advice about what she learned in the midst of becoming a young woman. Aware of the information overload that young people face today, she shares simple wisdom for bravely living your faith, such These are basic ideas, Wilson Hussem says, but taking care of yourself and loving others are easy tenets of our faith to forget. A book that can be read in short snippets or in one sitting, Go Bravely offers you the encouragement and tools you need to live out your Christian faith with purpose and zeal.
160 pages, Paperback
Published April 27, 2018
108 people are currently reading
743 people want to read
About the author
Emily Wilson Hussem
13 books143 followersEmily Wilson is a speaker, YouTuber, author, and musician who travels the world sharing her faith through witness and worship at women’s conferences, universities, and diocesan events across the globe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
February 1, 2018
I received this copy from the Author via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Expected publication: April 27th 2018 by Ave Maria Press
Uplifting, inspiring, a must read for all young women of God
I'm kind of disappointed that I didn't had this book when I was younger. Being a young Christian in today's world is not an easy task; in fact it's hard living a faithful life.
Emily shares her struggles and ways forward and gives inspiring advice to all who read this book. Even as a married evangelical women; I found a lot of the advise uplifting, encouraging, inspirational and motivating.
Expected publication: April 27th 2018 by Ave Maria Press
Uplifting, inspiring, a must read for all young women of God
I'm kind of disappointed that I didn't had this book when I was younger. Being a young Christian in today's world is not an easy task; in fact it's hard living a faithful life.
Emily shares her struggles and ways forward and gives inspiring advice to all who read this book. Even as a married evangelical women; I found a lot of the advise uplifting, encouraging, inspirational and motivating.
July 21, 2022
I did try with this one. I’m sorry I just couldn’t get anything out of it. It’s probably good for people who are just starting in the faith? I like books on the Catholic faith that will both educate me more deeply on the faith as well as dive even deeper and challenge me. I’m sure the author had only good intentions though. Just not for me.
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January 20, 2018I would like to thank NetGalley and Ave Maria Press for providing me this book in exchange for a honest review
I decided to read this book because of the cover and title, they looked interesting so when I found out that the book was actually a sort of self-help guide for christian women I was really surprised. I've never read a book like this before, I'm in my twenties and I don't have a lot of experiences but I want to give you my thoughts and opinions about this book anyway.
The writer speaks to women, younger or older it doesn't really matter, every woman out there can understand the messages between this pages and learn something from the author. She tells some stories about her life as a religious woman and it was quite interesting to see how her religion influenced her way to see the world. I never talk about my belief online but I have to say that I could relate to some parts of this book and I have friends that would be really glad to read something like this. I can't say this book is for everyone, but there are so many important messages in it and I'm glad I've read it. It's about accepting yourself, your body and your individuality. It's about faith, marriage and life during university years and after that. There are a lot of different things in it and the author connected all of them with her feelings and her belief. My favourite parts were the "Take action" sections at the end of each chapter. When you are first introduced to a subject there is a strong message, then an explaination with examples, but in that last short section of a chapter the "Take action" shows that you can really do something, you don't need superpowers to change your life, everyone can make a difference.
I would recommend this book mostly to Christian women that are looking for a guide and are interested in learning how they can conquer life without denying themselves.
I decided to read this book because of the cover and title, they looked interesting so when I found out that the book was actually a sort of self-help guide for christian women I was really surprised. I've never read a book like this before, I'm in my twenties and I don't have a lot of experiences but I want to give you my thoughts and opinions about this book anyway.
The writer speaks to women, younger or older it doesn't really matter, every woman out there can understand the messages between this pages and learn something from the author. She tells some stories about her life as a religious woman and it was quite interesting to see how her religion influenced her way to see the world. I never talk about my belief online but I have to say that I could relate to some parts of this book and I have friends that would be really glad to read something like this. I can't say this book is for everyone, but there are so many important messages in it and I'm glad I've read it. It's about accepting yourself, your body and your individuality. It's about faith, marriage and life during university years and after that. There are a lot of different things in it and the author connected all of them with her feelings and her belief. My favourite parts were the "Take action" sections at the end of each chapter. When you are first introduced to a subject there is a strong message, then an explaination with examples, but in that last short section of a chapter the "Take action" shows that you can really do something, you don't need superpowers to change your life, everyone can make a difference.
I would recommend this book mostly to Christian women that are looking for a guide and are interested in learning how they can conquer life without denying themselves.
April 6, 2019
This is an amazing book! Emily Wilson gives inciteful and practical advice that every young woman needs, as well as simple and concrete ways for her to apply them to her life. I really appreciated how real it was, and how Emily wrote mostly from the experiences of her own life. The prayer at the end was so beautiful and summed up the whole book perfectly.
Most definitely a must-read for any young woman, especially those (everyone!) who struggle living out their faith and embracing their identities as Jesus' daughters!
Most definitely a must-read for any young woman, especially those (everyone!) who struggle living out their faith and embracing their identities as Jesus' daughters!
May 19, 2018
I follow Emily Wilson and am familiar with her and her outreach, so I was aware that she was Catholic and her book is Catholic. I've noticed a lot of reviews seem to have been written by folks who weren't aware that this book was written by a Catholic and so is written from a Catholic point of view. This review is written by a Catholic who was aware that this book was written from the Catholic prospective.
This book is such a nice little read. Each chapter focuses on a different topic and ends with a "Take Action" part. It would be a great book to use as a guide to growing in virtue, focusing on one chapter a day or a week.
I thought I'd heard it all before, honestly. But Emily brings in a new focus and a new outlook that I hadn't heard before. Her honesty in the trials she faced and the conversions and challenges she undertook was inspiring.
The one part of the book that stood out most to me was the part which she challenged women to love themselves. To be able to understand themselves and appreciate themselves for who they are.
Really you should just read the book for yourself! It's a short little read and very delightful and inspiring. She has down to earth, good advice and her own actions are great examples of her words in action. I can see how it might be harder to read her book if you aren't Catholic, but that shouldn't prevent you from reading it! She truly is trying to empower women and that shouldn't mean that her beliefs as a Catholic should prevent truths about womanhood from being spread to the world. I don't remember any parts that were explicitly Catholic, to be honest, but I am Catholic myself, so those parts simply could have passed me by. Just, don't NOT read it because she's Catholic. When I finished reading I didn't think: wow, my Catholic faith has been so changed and confirmed and etc. etc. What I took from the book was the uplifting of women, the uplifting of myself as a woman. The truths and the advice she gives should really be common truths which anyone could be able to learn from and use to build themselves and other women up.
Thank you for this wonderful little book, Mrs. Wilson Hussem!
This book is such a nice little read. Each chapter focuses on a different topic and ends with a "Take Action" part. It would be a great book to use as a guide to growing in virtue, focusing on one chapter a day or a week.
I thought I'd heard it all before, honestly. But Emily brings in a new focus and a new outlook that I hadn't heard before. Her honesty in the trials she faced and the conversions and challenges she undertook was inspiring.
The one part of the book that stood out most to me was the part which she challenged women to love themselves. To be able to understand themselves and appreciate themselves for who they are.
Really you should just read the book for yourself! It's a short little read and very delightful and inspiring. She has down to earth, good advice and her own actions are great examples of her words in action. I can see how it might be harder to read her book if you aren't Catholic, but that shouldn't prevent you from reading it! She truly is trying to empower women and that shouldn't mean that her beliefs as a Catholic should prevent truths about womanhood from being spread to the world. I don't remember any parts that were explicitly Catholic, to be honest, but I am Catholic myself, so those parts simply could have passed me by. Just, don't NOT read it because she's Catholic. When I finished reading I didn't think: wow, my Catholic faith has been so changed and confirmed and etc. etc. What I took from the book was the uplifting of women, the uplifting of myself as a woman. The truths and the advice she gives should really be common truths which anyone could be able to learn from and use to build themselves and other women up.
Thank you for this wonderful little book, Mrs. Wilson Hussem!
June 13, 2024
4.3/5 stars
April 20, 2019
An encouraging book for young women to live their faith.
December 22, 2020
Just the spiritual comfort and inspiration I was looking for. It was as if I was having a conversation with a girlfriend on my couch.
May 26, 2025
sweet. some of the chapters really stuck with me, some were a little more matter of fact. a little bit of everything that st agnes left me with wrapped up into 137 pages
February 8, 2023
Wow! A beautiful book with a beautiful reminder of our title as "Daughter of God". The prayer at the end is a perfect sum-up of everything covered in this book. Very encouraging, very inspiring, very beautiful, and very brave!
"Go bravely," Joan de Arc says, "all will be well. Have no fear!"
Any young woman out there looking for a good book or just trying to be brave: you must read this!
"Go bravely," Joan de Arc says, "all will be well. Have no fear!"
Any young woman out there looking for a good book or just trying to be brave: you must read this!
February 22, 2018
i got my copy via netgalley
Even though I have a really feisty relationship with the catholic church and its dynamics they stand for and how christians make their faith a shield to protect themselves against others or just rebound the blame for their actions or indirect influences, such books as this gives me hope that not all of those who preach staying sober are drunkards.
I had bad experiences in my life no matter where ive lived with the churches. faith is something I consider with a pinch of salt. but this book did a good job staying borderline contemporary.
It is a mix of self-help, a tad bit traditional, and most of all girly autobiography of the author. I say this because she writes about her own experiences.
My absolute favorite section was the ; Honor those who love you most , it is something I can very easily stand by.
every section has its own meditation segment where you can take a minute to think and reflect on your own circumstances and it does fulfill in my opinion the role of a self-help book better than the step-by-step ones. because it is engaging your mind to think for yourself.
Even though I have a really feisty relationship with the catholic church and its dynamics they stand for and how christians make their faith a shield to protect themselves against others or just rebound the blame for their actions or indirect influences, such books as this gives me hope that not all of those who preach staying sober are drunkards.
I had bad experiences in my life no matter where ive lived with the churches. faith is something I consider with a pinch of salt. but this book did a good job staying borderline contemporary.
It is a mix of self-help, a tad bit traditional, and most of all girly autobiography of the author. I say this because she writes about her own experiences.
My absolute favorite section was the ; Honor those who love you most , it is something I can very easily stand by.
every section has its own meditation segment where you can take a minute to think and reflect on your own circumstances and it does fulfill in my opinion the role of a self-help book better than the step-by-step ones. because it is engaging your mind to think for yourself.
February 20, 2018
I requested a digital copy of this book from the publisher to review on netgalley. Disclaimer, I am not religious but interested in learning about different experiences of religion.
As a friend of people who practice varying religions to varying levels I was interested in seeing what this writer had to say and how young women may experience growing up as a Christian. It covered many aspects about faith for Christian girls and women. This included marriage, virginity, university life etc. The writer included helpful "Take action" sections at the end of each chapter, encouraging the reader to make small changes. In general this was an encouraging book that aspired to encourage women to retain Christian morals without restricting their lives.
I would recommend this book firstly to Christian women but also to those interested in learning about how Christianity is experienced by young women.
I absolutely love the beautiful cover. Thanks again to the publisher for sending me a copy of this book.
As a friend of people who practice varying religions to varying levels I was interested in seeing what this writer had to say and how young women may experience growing up as a Christian. It covered many aspects about faith for Christian girls and women. This included marriage, virginity, university life etc. The writer included helpful "Take action" sections at the end of each chapter, encouraging the reader to make small changes. In general this was an encouraging book that aspired to encourage women to retain Christian morals without restricting their lives.
I would recommend this book firstly to Christian women but also to those interested in learning about how Christianity is experienced by young women.
I absolutely love the beautiful cover. Thanks again to the publisher for sending me a copy of this book.
January 14, 2018
This pretty little volume is packed with great advice for young women. This is just the thing to share with a young lady navigating the drama of high school or college, or for someone a little older who needs a reminder of their innate worth.
Be yourself.
Do what you know is right.
Take good care of your body.
Don't worry what everyone else is saying.
You are a daughter of God.
Ms. Hussem shares personal stories of how she navigated tricky situations in her young adulthood, and each chapter ends with ideas for taking action. I have not read such a wise and truth-packed advice book in a long time, and I highly recommend it!
Be yourself.
Do what you know is right.
Take good care of your body.
Don't worry what everyone else is saying.
You are a daughter of God.
Ms. Hussem shares personal stories of how she navigated tricky situations in her young adulthood, and each chapter ends with ideas for taking action. I have not read such a wise and truth-packed advice book in a long time, and I highly recommend it!
January 11, 2018
Thank you to Net Gallery for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a delightful book about self love and friendship between women. There were part of this book I couldn't relate to, as someone who's not religious but I still loved the message. It was uplifting and brave. My favorite part of Go Bravely was how much it stressed the importance of being kind to women. I LOVE that message. I was glad I got a chance to read something outside of my comfort zone, I really enjoyed it and the message will stay with me long after.
This is a delightful book about self love and friendship between women. There were part of this book I couldn't relate to, as someone who's not religious but I still loved the message. It was uplifting and brave. My favorite part of Go Bravely was how much it stressed the importance of being kind to women. I LOVE that message. I was glad I got a chance to read something outside of my comfort zone, I really enjoyed it and the message will stay with me long after.
June 16, 2018
This book helped me a lot and I believe it will help others of faith to be brave in their life living for God. I enjoyed reading and applying all the “Take Action” sections. Those steps will help anyone to go out and “Take Action “ with their faith. And just the whole book itself will as well. Would I recommend to anyone? Yes, I most certainly would! If you’re looking for something to help give you support or uplift you, this book will.
I thank #NetGalley and the publishers for the copy of #Go Bravely for my honest review.
I thank #NetGalley and the publishers for the copy of #Go Bravely for my honest review.
January 6, 2021
This book covered all the bases of how to live as a Christian woman in the modern world. Every lesson that the author shared was practical and relevant to my life. I’m thankful to have been handed this short read by one of my spiritual mentors, and I can’t wait to share it with others!
June 9, 2019
Beautiful and sweet.
A great balance between personal examples and stores, quotes from saints and scripture, and just darn good advice.
The very end is a beautiful prayer about bravery that I will definitely be referencing often.
A great balance between personal examples and stores, quotes from saints and scripture, and just darn good advice.
The very end is a beautiful prayer about bravery that I will definitely be referencing often.
July 15, 2024
Super awesome
May 2, 2020
I absolutely loved this book and will be recommending it to my girls. As a young Catholic woman, this book showed me I am not alone in pursuing my faith. Wilson Hussem is an inspiration.
January 24, 2018
I received a free copy of this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Unfortunately when I selected this title I failed to realize that it was written from a Catholic viewpoint. As an evangelical Christian, I didn’t align with some of the points the author made, she tied in quotes from the pope more than she cited scripture. The book seems encouraging but very surface level and I felt that it lacked biblical truth.
October 21, 2022
i’ve been reading this every morning with my bible and i absolutely loved it. so many good lessons in this book!
April 10, 2022
I have seen some misconceptions about this book.
1. That it is Christian fiction. A book isn't fiction by default. While I'm on it, nonfiction is not every single piece of writing that's 'not fiction' but real events told with fictional resources, think of Truman Capote's In Cold Blood. This is a book where Catholic speaker and YouTuber Emily Wilson Hussem takes part of her experiences to give girls and women practical advice. This one is a nerdy bone to pick with some classification done nowadays, I'd argue it's minor, but I've also seen this kind of book referred to as "novels", and it's not a novel, because again it's not fictional.
2. That it's "too Catholic as opposed to Christian", that includes too many papal quotes and not Biblical ones. First, Catholicism is Christianity, and secondly I only recall 2 papal quotes out of 22 chapters, Biblical quotes were abundant, either one, sometimes two per chapter and related to the topic at hand.
3. That it is self help, well this is a bit more debatable because people tend to classify any book concerning life advice as self help even when Emily says that you cannot change and be a better person without having a community (of friends, especially female friends, in Church...), so it's not about 'helping yourself' as if you held the key to your own happiness without relying on God.
4. That Emily speaks from a "privileged white cishet point of view". It's true that some examples are outlandish (the whole going abroad on her honeymoon or because of tourism), but the book is not about that, she uses these experiences as starting points. And at no point she hides that she is a woman, a married one at that. Should those of us who are not resent her for that? Should we think she has no authority to think of universal experiences such as the harm of gossip or is it only something "unprivileged", "nonwhite" and "non heterosexual" people should speak about as if suffering did not happen to everyone? (Yes, to some more than others, but the point still stands). And in no way she discusses sexuality beyond the fact that we're called to an integrated living of it (aka chastity which is not just abstinence).
Maybe I am a bit past the age group this book is directed to, but that does not mean I do not see its value for teenage girls.
Emily compassionately tells the truths we need to hear, and using her own life experiences, and scriptural backing , she provides a solid foundation to encourage us to live our faith
I found some passages particularly moving and inspiring. I like how the chapters on modesty and chastity and loving your body (which means exercise or food take new meanings, because they're not to make your body into something it's not) or kindness towards other women and a healthy reaction when trying to heal from the hurt caused by gossip tie into each other nicely, too.
It made a great lent listen, daily slowing down to listen to each chapter and taking one liners once I was finished.
Personally I also cringed with her 'yum! chicken' passages but those are not too many, understandable given the audience. I've followed her on YouTube for quite a while and found myself in agreement with most of her takes, especially concerning how to set boundaries and how not to freak out because of ridiculous expectations of the world.
So thank you, Emily, for this book. Maybe it's the kind of advice I neded before going to college even though the reality of college is very different to that of the US.
1. That it is Christian fiction. A book isn't fiction by default. While I'm on it, nonfiction is not every single piece of writing that's 'not fiction' but real events told with fictional resources, think of Truman Capote's In Cold Blood. This is a book where Catholic speaker and YouTuber Emily Wilson Hussem takes part of her experiences to give girls and women practical advice. This one is a nerdy bone to pick with some classification done nowadays, I'd argue it's minor, but I've also seen this kind of book referred to as "novels", and it's not a novel, because again it's not fictional.
2. That it's "too Catholic as opposed to Christian", that includes too many papal quotes and not Biblical ones. First, Catholicism is Christianity, and secondly I only recall 2 papal quotes out of 22 chapters, Biblical quotes were abundant, either one, sometimes two per chapter and related to the topic at hand.
3. That it is self help, well this is a bit more debatable because people tend to classify any book concerning life advice as self help even when Emily says that you cannot change and be a better person without having a community (of friends, especially female friends, in Church...), so it's not about 'helping yourself' as if you held the key to your own happiness without relying on God.
4. That Emily speaks from a "privileged white cishet point of view". It's true that some examples are outlandish (the whole going abroad on her honeymoon or because of tourism), but the book is not about that, she uses these experiences as starting points. And at no point she hides that she is a woman, a married one at that. Should those of us who are not resent her for that? Should we think she has no authority to think of universal experiences such as the harm of gossip or is it only something "unprivileged", "nonwhite" and "non heterosexual" people should speak about as if suffering did not happen to everyone? (Yes, to some more than others, but the point still stands). And in no way she discusses sexuality beyond the fact that we're called to an integrated living of it (aka chastity which is not just abstinence).
Maybe I am a bit past the age group this book is directed to, but that does not mean I do not see its value for teenage girls.
Emily compassionately tells the truths we need to hear, and using her own life experiences, and scriptural backing , she provides a solid foundation to encourage us to live our faith
I found some passages particularly moving and inspiring. I like how the chapters on modesty and chastity and loving your body (which means exercise or food take new meanings, because they're not to make your body into something it's not) or kindness towards other women and a healthy reaction when trying to heal from the hurt caused by gossip tie into each other nicely, too.
It made a great lent listen, daily slowing down to listen to each chapter and taking one liners once I was finished.
Personally I also cringed with her 'yum! chicken' passages but those are not too many, understandable given the audience. I've followed her on YouTube for quite a while and found myself in agreement with most of her takes, especially concerning how to set boundaries and how not to freak out because of ridiculous expectations of the world.
So thank you, Emily, for this book. Maybe it's the kind of advice I neded before going to college even though the reality of college is very different to that of the US.
December 17, 2019
I read this book with one of our daughters. It inspired great discussions. Highly recommended.
February 22, 2020
This is a long review, due to a chapter-by-chapter breakdown.
General Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book to the point this might be added to my birthday or Christmas wish-list! This was also a thinking book, because I reflected on my actions, thoughts, and words in conjunction with this book. I felt like God gave me this book right when I could appreciate it for I have a deeper understanding on my faith.
Chapter One: Go Bravely
This chapter is applicable to my life right now, because I am encountering things where I feel the need to speak up for the Catholic faith. For me, I struggle with openly talking about my Catholic faith and knowing when to do it. I will say I had a win recently, because I spoke up about this book at work that I felt did not have an accurate portrayal on what the Church teaches. Was I brave and spoke up? Yes. Could it have been phrase better with slightly different tone? Yes, but this is a journey. To tie in the discussion questions, I think being brave means speaking up for the truth even when other people saying you are wrong, which makes me think of a Captain America quote. I am brave when it is just me, but speaking up about my beliefs to people who do not share them or might be hostile is something I am working on.
Chapter Two: Remember Who You Are
This chapter was another one that effected me, especially page 12 in the last paragraph. When I had an internship during college, a lot of people who knew me at my local library was telling me I should be a librarian. Now I was told this before, but this reach a fever pitch that summer and I thought that was closest I am going to get of God coming down from Heaven with a paper saying "This is what you need to do." Recently, I entered a new position with new duties that include examining a collection that puts me directly in the sights of customers, which means even when I am not on the desk people still ask me questions as I am fixing my collection. I then feel frustrated that I am being interrupted, but this paragraph was like a little reminder on what I need to do. For example, I can straighten the shelves later, because they will still be there. That customer in front of me needs my help right now and that should be my focus, instead of my desires to straighten the shelves.
Chapter 3: Be Kind to Other Women
This was another little reminder that caused me some reflection. This chapter is something I am slowly realizing and digesting. As far as I know, I have not put another woman down, but I have compared myself to other women. Once I make a comparison a little voice pops in and says "You are not them. Their journey is different from your journey. Stop comparing." Then I stop comparing with some struggle and keep going.
Chapter 4: Depend on Him
I think I am okay on this chapter in some parts of my life, but I am also concern about when do I need to act or when do I need to wait. Sometimes I feel I am good at waiting, because I am scared about making a move. Yet at the same time, I feel I need to make a move or else it will be too late.
Chapter 5: Date with Purpose
This chapter and the subsequent discussion questions are applicable to my life right now. When I was younger, I made the decision not to date until after college, because dating and school is too messy. Now I am out of college and I am like should I date, not date, how does someone date, or do I need to wait? Is this where I need to brave and make the first move or does God want me to learn something before I really dive into the dating pool? I also realize dating is supposed to lead to marriage, which means I am not even sure if I should date for I am not sure if marriage is my vocation. I think I need to pray so more.
Chapter 6: Just Keep Swimming
Just yes. I need this reminder in my life for I am definitely a Type-A, so failing is scary.
Chapter 7: Find Your Gaggle
This chapter gave me lots of thoughts and questions on what I should I do about friendships.
Chapter 8: Choosing Chastity
I wish this book was publish earlier so I could use it to help me with this paper for one of my classes, because I had to write about a paper responding to a prompt on sexuality and morality. It was hard for me to write, because I am Catholic and as this chapter outlines there are some strict guidelines. I was unsure with this paper on whether I should mention religion (relates to the being brave chapter).
Chapter 9: Be Open to Jump
This was self-explanatory, but it is a bit scary. I think the closet I came was choosing grad school.
Chapter 10: Honor Those Who Love You Most
Yes on all of this.
Chapter 11: Give It All You Got
Self-explanatory.
Chapter 12: Love Yourself
For me, this chapter goes hand-and-hand with chapter 3, especially the comparison part. This chapter's points is something I think about, because I feel I am not hitting the right milestones or doing the "right" things. Yet, I have to remind myself that I am me and God only created one of me, which means I should not compare myself with others. Instead, I should focus on how God created me.
Chapter 13: Clothe Yourself in Strength
This chapter warmed my heart at the same time gave me some anxiety that I ignored, because I had to go past through the anxiety to deal with the facts.
Chapter 14: Forgive and Forget
This was an illuminating chapter that gave me more clarity, but I think I need to think about/pray on this some more.
Chapter 15: Keep Calm and Follow God
This is where I am at! Everything Emily Wilson Hussem talked about is what is going on in my head, which possible means the Holy Spirit is at work.
Chapter 16: Exercise Your "No" Muscle
I think I am pretty good at this, but I should not be complacent.
Chapter 17: Love Your Body
This was understandable and self-explanatory.
Chapter 18: Ignore the Haters
This was nice and encouraging reminder.
Chapter 19: Radiate with Light
What gave me pause in this chapter was page 125 about the question "Why should I believe in God?" I am still formulating my response, but it is something along the lines of God makes sense. This still needs development, but that is where my mind is. I do better with the question of "If God exists then why do bad things happen?"
Chapter 20: Live It Up and Conclusion
This was a nice way to finish up the book, but my thoughts went to the first line of chapter 20. I was curious to know when the author was in VA for I lived in VA.
General Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book to the point this might be added to my birthday or Christmas wish-list! This was also a thinking book, because I reflected on my actions, thoughts, and words in conjunction with this book. I felt like God gave me this book right when I could appreciate it for I have a deeper understanding on my faith.
Chapter One: Go Bravely
This chapter is applicable to my life right now, because I am encountering things where I feel the need to speak up for the Catholic faith. For me, I struggle with openly talking about my Catholic faith and knowing when to do it. I will say I had a win recently, because I spoke up about this book at work that I felt did not have an accurate portrayal on what the Church teaches. Was I brave and spoke up? Yes. Could it have been phrase better with slightly different tone? Yes, but this is a journey. To tie in the discussion questions, I think being brave means speaking up for the truth even when other people saying you are wrong, which makes me think of a Captain America quote. I am brave when it is just me, but speaking up about my beliefs to people who do not share them or might be hostile is something I am working on.
Chapter Two: Remember Who You Are
This chapter was another one that effected me, especially page 12 in the last paragraph. When I had an internship during college, a lot of people who knew me at my local library was telling me I should be a librarian. Now I was told this before, but this reach a fever pitch that summer and I thought that was closest I am going to get of God coming down from Heaven with a paper saying "This is what you need to do." Recently, I entered a new position with new duties that include examining a collection that puts me directly in the sights of customers, which means even when I am not on the desk people still ask me questions as I am fixing my collection. I then feel frustrated that I am being interrupted, but this paragraph was like a little reminder on what I need to do. For example, I can straighten the shelves later, because they will still be there. That customer in front of me needs my help right now and that should be my focus, instead of my desires to straighten the shelves.
Chapter 3: Be Kind to Other Women
This was another little reminder that caused me some reflection. This chapter is something I am slowly realizing and digesting. As far as I know, I have not put another woman down, but I have compared myself to other women. Once I make a comparison a little voice pops in and says "You are not them. Their journey is different from your journey. Stop comparing." Then I stop comparing with some struggle and keep going.
Chapter 4: Depend on Him
I think I am okay on this chapter in some parts of my life, but I am also concern about when do I need to act or when do I need to wait. Sometimes I feel I am good at waiting, because I am scared about making a move. Yet at the same time, I feel I need to make a move or else it will be too late.
Chapter 5: Date with Purpose
This chapter and the subsequent discussion questions are applicable to my life right now. When I was younger, I made the decision not to date until after college, because dating and school is too messy. Now I am out of college and I am like should I date, not date, how does someone date, or do I need to wait? Is this where I need to brave and make the first move or does God want me to learn something before I really dive into the dating pool? I also realize dating is supposed to lead to marriage, which means I am not even sure if I should date for I am not sure if marriage is my vocation. I think I need to pray so more.
Chapter 6: Just Keep Swimming
Just yes. I need this reminder in my life for I am definitely a Type-A, so failing is scary.
Chapter 7: Find Your Gaggle
This chapter gave me lots of thoughts and questions on what I should I do about friendships.
Chapter 8: Choosing Chastity
I wish this book was publish earlier so I could use it to help me with this paper for one of my classes, because I had to write about a paper responding to a prompt on sexuality and morality. It was hard for me to write, because I am Catholic and as this chapter outlines there are some strict guidelines. I was unsure with this paper on whether I should mention religion (relates to the being brave chapter).
Chapter 9: Be Open to Jump
This was self-explanatory, but it is a bit scary. I think the closet I came was choosing grad school.
Chapter 10: Honor Those Who Love You Most
Yes on all of this.
Chapter 11: Give It All You Got
Self-explanatory.
Chapter 12: Love Yourself
For me, this chapter goes hand-and-hand with chapter 3, especially the comparison part. This chapter's points is something I think about, because I feel I am not hitting the right milestones or doing the "right" things. Yet, I have to remind myself that I am me and God only created one of me, which means I should not compare myself with others. Instead, I should focus on how God created me.
Chapter 13: Clothe Yourself in Strength
This chapter warmed my heart at the same time gave me some anxiety that I ignored, because I had to go past through the anxiety to deal with the facts.
Chapter 14: Forgive and Forget
This was an illuminating chapter that gave me more clarity, but I think I need to think about/pray on this some more.
Chapter 15: Keep Calm and Follow God
This is where I am at! Everything Emily Wilson Hussem talked about is what is going on in my head, which possible means the Holy Spirit is at work.
Chapter 16: Exercise Your "No" Muscle
I think I am pretty good at this, but I should not be complacent.
Chapter 17: Love Your Body
This was understandable and self-explanatory.
Chapter 18: Ignore the Haters
This was nice and encouraging reminder.
Chapter 19: Radiate with Light
What gave me pause in this chapter was page 125 about the question "Why should I believe in God?" I am still formulating my response, but it is something along the lines of God makes sense. This still needs development, but that is where my mind is. I do better with the question of "If God exists then why do bad things happen?"
Chapter 20: Live It Up and Conclusion
This was a nice way to finish up the book, but my thoughts went to the first line of chapter 20. I was curious to know when the author was in VA for I lived in VA.
April 11, 2018
Go Bravely is the big sister we all need cheering us on and challenging us to make good choices. Emily’s voice in this book is true to her encouraging presence as a public speaker while challenging young women to go bravely into the world knowing our dignity and being unafraid to live counterculturally. As someone a couple years beyond college, I found that it would be more ideal for high school or college age. It would be a perfect starting high school or heading off to college gift, I think. There are so many toxic messages girls encounter and internalize nowadays. We need more people challenging the status quo and showing that a countercultural life is beautiful, empowering, and more than anything - freeing - like Emily does in this book.
Emily goes through a variety of topics relevant to the lives of today’s young women, drops truth bombs, recommends concrete actions to take, and sheds light where society obscures the beauty we’re called to as women of faith. This is not a theological treaty, literary ground-breaker, or Biblical exegesis. It’s a big sister telling it like it is and challenging young women to embrace the life God made us for. This is the calling every young woman has: to find freedom in who God made us to be. Go bravely and claim that!
Emily goes through a variety of topics relevant to the lives of today’s young women, drops truth bombs, recommends concrete actions to take, and sheds light where society obscures the beauty we’re called to as women of faith. This is not a theological treaty, literary ground-breaker, or Biblical exegesis. It’s a big sister telling it like it is and challenging young women to embrace the life God made us for. This is the calling every young woman has: to find freedom in who God made us to be. Go bravely and claim that!
September 1, 2020
A very relevant, strengthening and motivating book to read for any young woman. I think it would be most beneficial for a girl to read it between the ages of 15 and 18 as there are some things I was reading as a 21yr old that I just wished I had only heard earlier so I would greatly encourage anyone to gift this to their daughter/ friend in that age range. Despite that, no matter what age you read it I believe you can find some helpful advice and encouragement for your own life. It addresses a very wide range important issues in a language that is easy and simple to understand and implement in your life, covering topics like the fundamental nature of our being as children of God created in His image, how to find the bravery to live out your faith, the fruits of intentional dating, what true friendship between women should look like and how to evangelise through your actions and kindness.
My favourite quote from the book:
“When I meet God on the day that I die, I hope that I can echo the words of Psalm 40:10: “I have not hidden Your saving help within my heart, I have spoken of Your faithfulness and Your salvation”
My favourite quote from the book:
“When I meet God on the day that I die, I hope that I can echo the words of Psalm 40:10: “I have not hidden Your saving help within my heart, I have spoken of Your faithfulness and Your salvation”
April 10, 2019
I purchased this book as a Confirmation gift for the girl I am sponsoring. Then when it came, I got curious. So I decided to try to read it before I gave it to her. I didn't get through the first chapter before I had grabbed a pen and started underlining and making notes in the margin. This book is a beautiful guide to all the truths we need to remind young women of today. It reminds them who they are, who He is, and that He loves us. Emily shares beautifully and vulnerably of her own personal experiences. If our young women can internalize the messages of this book, they will save themselves a world of hurt later in life. My Confirmation student is getting a dog eared, much loved copy. I hope she gleans as much from it as I did.
November 18, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book and this book was my fav book to read! This book is helpful, beneficial, great, interesting, amazing book for women to read about Christian Friendship advice, relationship advice&more topics to read about it! Emily Wilson Hussem is so amazing author to read from her books! Love this book&Emily Wilson Hussem so much too! Also, Jason Evert wrote amazing book review on this book and his book reviews are amazing to read! I loved reading others authors reviews to read from this book! Love Jason Evert as my fav author too!
June 24, 2018
I can honestly say that this book altered my life. The deep and beautiful changes in me it has made, rooted me deeper into my Faith, my understanding of who I am, and just overall the way I live. I cannot fathom the major impact this book has made on me. I recommend it to absolutely every girl out there! I hope you pick up this beautiful book (inside and out) either in store or online. Do not miss out on the amazing book!! With much love, Veronica!
February 10, 2018
Not my thing, although I'm sure others will enjoy it.
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