What do you think?
Rate this book
Ready or Not: Leaning Into Life in Our Twenties
Discerning a calling is a messy undertaking. You are already involved in many good things now, even as you are being called to many good things in your future. The good life―good work, good relationships, good citizenship, good faith―is to be enjoyed now and pursued on every horizon. We are living out the Kingdom of God even as we seek it.
Ready or Not is a much-needed resource for young people on exploring the complexity of vocation in empowering, not prescriptive, ways. After exploring four foundational questions for emerging adulthood―Who is God? Who am I? How have I been shaped? What are my contexts?―you will work through interactive chapters covering the contours of adulthood, spirituality, family, community, and work.
Explore the full depths of your twenties with bravery and vulnerability! With insight into life skills, personal growth, and spirituality, Ready or Not will set you on a faithful trajectory for a good and meaningful life.
Ready or Not is a much-needed resource for young people on exploring the complexity of vocation in empowering, not prescriptive, ways. After exploring four foundational questions for emerging adulthood―Who is God? Who am I? How have I been shaped? What are my contexts?―you will work through interactive chapters covering the contours of adulthood, spirituality, family, community, and work.
Explore the full depths of your twenties with bravery and vulnerability! With insight into life skills, personal growth, and spirituality, Ready or Not will set you on a faithful trajectory for a good and meaningful life.
Audio CD
Published April 3, 2018
About the author
Drew Moser
15 books49 followers**Drew's next book: The Enneagram of Discernment | The Way of Vocation, Wisdom, & Practice will release August 4, 2020**
Drew Moser, Ph.D. is a certified enneagram teacher, co-host of Fathoms | An Enneagram Podcast, and a professional member of the International Enneagram Association. He travels the country teaching the enneagram, and is the author/editor of four books. Drew is also a professor and dean at Taylor University and resides in Upland, Indiana with his family.
Follow him online:
- Website: www.drewmoser.com
- Instagram: @drewmoser; @enneagrammers
- Twitter: @drewmoser
- Email: drewmoser@gmail.com
He's poured this knowledge and experience into Ready or Not: Leaning into Life in our Twenties (coming in 2018). . ., the only book written for twentysomethings to explore the good life through an interactive, dynamic process.
Drew co-directs the Vocation in College Project, a multi-phased research project studying colleges students and calling.
He's a former young adult pastor and non-profit leader. Drew is married to Bekah, his wife of 15 years. Together they have 5 children (yes…5! 3 sons and 2 daughters).
They live the good life in Upland, IN.
Drew Moser, Ph.D. is a certified enneagram teacher, co-host of Fathoms | An Enneagram Podcast, and a professional member of the International Enneagram Association. He travels the country teaching the enneagram, and is the author/editor of four books. Drew is also a professor and dean at Taylor University and resides in Upland, Indiana with his family.
Follow him online:
- Website: www.drewmoser.com
- Instagram: @drewmoser; @enneagrammers
- Twitter: @drewmoser
- Email: drewmoser@gmail.com
He's poured this knowledge and experience into Ready or Not: Leaning into Life in our Twenties (coming in 2018). . ., the only book written for twentysomethings to explore the good life through an interactive, dynamic process.
Drew co-directs the Vocation in College Project, a multi-phased research project studying colleges students and calling.
He's a former young adult pastor and non-profit leader. Drew is married to Bekah, his wife of 15 years. Together they have 5 children (yes…5! 3 sons and 2 daughters).
They live the good life in Upland, IN.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 8, 2018
Great thoughts, structure, questions, and insights for considering vocation as a twentysomething.
Chapters outline some of the foundation for thinking through vocation (vocation definition, identity, experience, etc.) and then focus on a handful of components of vocation (work, family, spirituality, etc.).
The writing is grounded in experience with twentysomethings and is mindful of varying backgrounds and pursuits. Each chapter ends with questions and action-oriented prompts, pushing the reader to integrate their learning into their lived experience.
Lots of quotes could be pulled but here’s a gem from the chapter on work:
“Do the small things. Fail often. Each time, fail a little better. No, you probably won’t change the world in your first year or two of work. You probably won’t change the world in your first decade or two of work. In fact, it’s actually not about changing the world at all. It’s about being faithful in all the little things” (p. 20).
If you’re a twentysomething looking for a good read on vocation or you work with this demographic, check out the book!
Chapters outline some of the foundation for thinking through vocation (vocation definition, identity, experience, etc.) and then focus on a handful of components of vocation (work, family, spirituality, etc.).
The writing is grounded in experience with twentysomethings and is mindful of varying backgrounds and pursuits. Each chapter ends with questions and action-oriented prompts, pushing the reader to integrate their learning into their lived experience.
Lots of quotes could be pulled but here’s a gem from the chapter on work:
“Do the small things. Fail often. Each time, fail a little better. No, you probably won’t change the world in your first year or two of work. You probably won’t change the world in your first decade or two of work. In fact, it’s actually not about changing the world at all. It’s about being faithful in all the little things” (p. 20).
If you’re a twentysomething looking for a good read on vocation or you work with this demographic, check out the book!
March 27, 2018
Being in my twenties, I found this book to be a great reminder about the purpose of this season and the flourishing that is to come from it. Moser and Fankhauser team up and pour out their expertise on the topic, writing about why our 20s matter and answering questions that most college students and people in their mid-to-late 20s are asking about calling, staying rooted, and what’s next. I was encouraged by this book and will use it as a resource to mentor those who are younger than me and just entering this season.
March 25, 2018
accessible, practical, thoughtful, and a must-read for twenty-somethings. Drew and Jess use research, stories, and experiences to craft engaging and down-to-earth frameworks for how we can and should approach this chaotic thing called life.
May 8, 2018
About the Book:
Discerning a calling is a messy undertaking. You are already involved in many good things now, even as you are being called to many good things in your future. The good life―good work, good relationships, good citizenship, good faith―is to be enjoyed now and pursued on every horizon. We are living out the Kingdom of God even as we seek it.
Ready or Not is a much-needed resource for young people on exploring the complexity of vocation in empowering, not prescriptive, ways. After exploring four foundational questions for emerging adulthood―Who is God? Who am I? How have I been shaped? What are my contexts?―you will work through interactive chapters covering the contours of adulthood, including: spirituality, family, community, and work.
Explore the full depths of your twenties with bravery and vulnerability! With insight into life skills, personal growth, and spirituality, Ready or Not will set you on a faithful trajectory for a good and meaningful life.
My Review:
When a young person takes that finally step into adulthood, it can be downright terrifying for the young person and the said parents of that young person. So many new adventures and trials. So many unanswered questions. The fear of the unknown comes to mind. We as parents have to help them at least in the beginning to navigate priorities and to let the weaker of these fall by the wayside--as they should and to teach our kids the difference.
Ready or Not is not just a self help advice book it is a book to share with that young adult to help them navigate and search out what the Lord has for them. Most of us do not know or comprehend that He has placed a calling on us and this is a good book to use to get down to the bottom of it. There are tons of information in the book but also some homework sections, as well to help with the process.
A great book for navigating young adulthood.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Discerning a calling is a messy undertaking. You are already involved in many good things now, even as you are being called to many good things in your future. The good life―good work, good relationships, good citizenship, good faith―is to be enjoyed now and pursued on every horizon. We are living out the Kingdom of God even as we seek it.
Ready or Not is a much-needed resource for young people on exploring the complexity of vocation in empowering, not prescriptive, ways. After exploring four foundational questions for emerging adulthood―Who is God? Who am I? How have I been shaped? What are my contexts?―you will work through interactive chapters covering the contours of adulthood, including: spirituality, family, community, and work.
Explore the full depths of your twenties with bravery and vulnerability! With insight into life skills, personal growth, and spirituality, Ready or Not will set you on a faithful trajectory for a good and meaningful life.
My Review:
When a young person takes that finally step into adulthood, it can be downright terrifying for the young person and the said parents of that young person. So many new adventures and trials. So many unanswered questions. The fear of the unknown comes to mind. We as parents have to help them at least in the beginning to navigate priorities and to let the weaker of these fall by the wayside--as they should and to teach our kids the difference.
Ready or Not is not just a self help advice book it is a book to share with that young adult to help them navigate and search out what the Lord has for them. Most of us do not know or comprehend that He has placed a calling on us and this is a good book to use to get down to the bottom of it. There are tons of information in the book but also some homework sections, as well to help with the process.
A great book for navigating young adulthood.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 10, 2018
This book is meant to help twentysomethings as they figure out life and all that lies ahead of them.
Had I read this book in my 20s, I’m sure my life would be completely different from what it is today. However, I’m equally sure that my know-it-all younger self would have scoffed at the suggestion of reading a book to help me figure out life. (I’m grateful my God redeems and blesses even when I choose the less-than-ideal path).
So, as wonderful as this book is, I wonder how many twentysomethings who need the help and encouragement will be open to reading this book, much less using it.
In nine chapters, the authors treat relevant topics from a practical point of view, using anecdotes, quotes, and research. At the end of every chapter are exercises, discussion questions, and suggestions on how to apply principles learned in everyday life. The chapter titles are: Vocation, God and Us, Past and Present, Dimensions and Rhythms, Spirituality, Work, Family, Church, and Community. In these chapters a lot is covered—from how to deal with the boring and mundane to what to do when your church doesn’t meet your spiritual needs.
I especially appreciate the emphasis on connecting with and learning from others. For example, one suggestion is to interview someone at least 20 years older and who exemplifies a life of sustaining faith. The authors even give you interview questions that you can build on. They urge the reader: “Surround yourself with people you know and trust to treat your hopes and fears with the best of intentions.”
The more of the book I read, I more realized that it would fit into the curriculum of a Life Skills course or a small group study. Perhaps this type of setting would be a gentle way to force-feed the twentysomethings who desperately need to hear what this book says but who are resistant to anything that even subtly smacks of advice or self-help.
I also think this book is a great resource for older adults—parents, uncles, aunts, grandparents, mentors—with a twentysomething in their lives. It has certainly helped me reframe my conversations with young adults.
Had I read this book in my 20s, I’m sure my life would be completely different from what it is today. However, I’m equally sure that my know-it-all younger self would have scoffed at the suggestion of reading a book to help me figure out life. (I’m grateful my God redeems and blesses even when I choose the less-than-ideal path).
So, as wonderful as this book is, I wonder how many twentysomethings who need the help and encouragement will be open to reading this book, much less using it.
In nine chapters, the authors treat relevant topics from a practical point of view, using anecdotes, quotes, and research. At the end of every chapter are exercises, discussion questions, and suggestions on how to apply principles learned in everyday life. The chapter titles are: Vocation, God and Us, Past and Present, Dimensions and Rhythms, Spirituality, Work, Family, Church, and Community. In these chapters a lot is covered—from how to deal with the boring and mundane to what to do when your church doesn’t meet your spiritual needs.
I especially appreciate the emphasis on connecting with and learning from others. For example, one suggestion is to interview someone at least 20 years older and who exemplifies a life of sustaining faith. The authors even give you interview questions that you can build on. They urge the reader: “Surround yourself with people you know and trust to treat your hopes and fears with the best of intentions.”
The more of the book I read, I more realized that it would fit into the curriculum of a Life Skills course or a small group study. Perhaps this type of setting would be a gentle way to force-feed the twentysomethings who desperately need to hear what this book says but who are resistant to anything that even subtly smacks of advice or self-help.
I also think this book is a great resource for older adults—parents, uncles, aunts, grandparents, mentors—with a twentysomething in their lives. It has certainly helped me reframe my conversations with young adults.
April 2, 2018
As someone who has worked with 20-somethings for years helping them discern their way through this decade, I think this book is excellent.
I love working with folks in their 20's asking questions about what will they do for work, where will they live, what will their relationships be about, and how will they shape their core identity. This book is an excellent guide/resource to shape reflection in these areas. It'd be a wonderful resource just as a book to be read but I think its real power is how it can be used as a launching off point for guided reflection either for individuals, or as I would recommend, in group settings.
Drew and Jess shape the work around the idea of vocation but define this much more broadly than simply 'career.' To get a sense for what they are going at, just look at the chapter titles such as spirituality, work, family, church, and community. Essentially they are helping people discern their entire shape of life in all its particularities. Its an excellent book, I highly recommend it.
I love working with folks in their 20's asking questions about what will they do for work, where will they live, what will their relationships be about, and how will they shape their core identity. This book is an excellent guide/resource to shape reflection in these areas. It'd be a wonderful resource just as a book to be read but I think its real power is how it can be used as a launching off point for guided reflection either for individuals, or as I would recommend, in group settings.
Drew and Jess shape the work around the idea of vocation but define this much more broadly than simply 'career.' To get a sense for what they are going at, just look at the chapter titles such as spirituality, work, family, church, and community. Essentially they are helping people discern their entire shape of life in all its particularities. Its an excellent book, I highly recommend it.
August 3, 2020
A great book for grads and those entering their "defining decade". Moser is particularly strong in the "God and us" chapter focusing us on Who God is and the adventure of growth God intends for us. Excellent book.
May 6, 2018
As a twenty-something I found this book to be so encouraging and helpful.
In nine small chapters, the author uses relevant topics to show a practical point of view. He combines research, quotes, and anecdotes to get his points across. I really enjoyed his writing style. At the end of every chapter, there are discussion questions, exercises, and a how-to-apply section. This makes the book more practical in helping with my every day life.
I really enjoyed the emphasis on connecting with others, and learning from them. I think some of his suggestions are spot on. He suggests making friends with older people who exemplify a life of faith. He even gives you interview questions that you can build on and change to make more relivent.
The chapter titles are as follows: Vocation, God and Us, Past and Present, Dimensions and Rhythms, Spirituality, Work, Family, Church, and Community.
As I read more and more the more I thought about taking this book to my young adult life group. This would be perfect as a book study or even a small group study. I also believe people who love twenty somethings would benifit from this resource as well.
In nine small chapters, the author uses relevant topics to show a practical point of view. He combines research, quotes, and anecdotes to get his points across. I really enjoyed his writing style. At the end of every chapter, there are discussion questions, exercises, and a how-to-apply section. This makes the book more practical in helping with my every day life.
I really enjoyed the emphasis on connecting with others, and learning from them. I think some of his suggestions are spot on. He suggests making friends with older people who exemplify a life of faith. He even gives you interview questions that you can build on and change to make more relivent.
The chapter titles are as follows: Vocation, God and Us, Past and Present, Dimensions and Rhythms, Spirituality, Work, Family, Church, and Community.
As I read more and more the more I thought about taking this book to my young adult life group. This would be perfect as a book study or even a small group study. I also believe people who love twenty somethings would benifit from this resource as well.
March 25, 2018
If you are a twenty something or care about twenty something's you need to read this book. The authors Drew and Jess take the reader through a series of chapters, questions and activities as it relates to vocation and the transitions that take place in our twenties.
The themes that resonate throughout the book is that we need to be fully engaged not just in work, but family, church and community. That our twenties do not need to be feared, but to be celebrated and lived in freedom. The authors stress the importance of living a life of authenticity and encourage the reader with some really important questions and activities.
The themes that resonate throughout the book is that we need to be fully engaged not just in work, but family, church and community. That our twenties do not need to be feared, but to be celebrated and lived in freedom. The authors stress the importance of living a life of authenticity and encourage the reader with some really important questions and activities.
March 22, 2018
I received a complimentary copy.
- What did you like about the book and why? It has meaningful and important life stops that will give the reader a good reflection experience.
- What did you not like about the book and why? It is geared to focus on a certain age group and will not be as beneficial if you are older. Of course you can change the wording to suit your needs, but then it would be a different book style.
- What did you learn? I think the takeaway for me with this book is that there is a major point in life where you can find personal growth, but at any point you can build on that experience.
- To whom would you recommend this book and why? I would put this group with the 20 something age range so they can enjoy and become more interested in themselves .
- What did you like about the book and why? It has meaningful and important life stops that will give the reader a good reflection experience.
- What did you not like about the book and why? It is geared to focus on a certain age group and will not be as beneficial if you are older. Of course you can change the wording to suit your needs, but then it would be a different book style.
- What did you learn? I think the takeaway for me with this book is that there is a major point in life where you can find personal growth, but at any point you can build on that experience.
- To whom would you recommend this book and why? I would put this group with the 20 something age range so they can enjoy and become more interested in themselves .
April 15, 2018
A practical and easy-to-read book, this offers not only a solid framework for approaching your twenties but also some thought-provoking exercises and discussion questions. If you are in your twenties or are about to be, this book is worth your time. If you work with people in your twenties like me, this is absolutely worth reading and bringing to them. I'm already brainstorming which avenue to read this book with students next academic year.
April 17, 2018
Great book and something I wish I would have had when I graduated college! There was plenty of good advice to twenty somethings on how to navigate life after college. I especially liked the chapters on God & us and community. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who just graduated and is starting off life after school in a new city.
March 28, 2018
Drew and Jess do a wonderful job of framing the different questions in life and of wise (and witty) insights into how to walk with the questions courageously and faithfully. A book that serves as guide to explore and live life to the fullest.
September 26, 2018
Drew and Jess do a wonderful job of encouraging twentysomethings to live a life of flourishing NOW. Packed with wisdom, empathy, challenges, and care, this is a book twentysomethings and those that work with or care about twentysomethings won’t want to miss!
April 4, 2018
Phenomenal book for any twentysomething who is really looking for some guidance on their journey of life. Drew and Jess definitely put together an amazing book that is very well researched and full of knowledge. Read it for encouragement for your twenties.
May 2, 2018
First off I wish this book was around when I was a little younger, filled with practical insight and sage wisdom this book is an essential for helping navigate ones 20's which are full of so many decisions that deeply affect the rest of your life. This book addresses so many of those decisions and helps give one a good foundation for the rest of your life.
I loved how this book carefully wove scriptures, real life stories and great insight into all of its pages. This book would make an exceptional gift for college graduation or just because as I really think many young people would benefit from it.
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved how this book carefully wove scriptures, real life stories and great insight into all of its pages. This book would make an exceptional gift for college graduation or just because as I really think many young people would benefit from it.
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 27, 2018
Helpful.
July 2, 2019
Ready or Not takes a look at what living faithfully in our twenties looks like. The book explores an intriguing definition of vocation; and has chapters focusing on personal spiritual growth, work, church, family, and community.
This is a good book that chronicles a lot of truths into one place. As an individual currently in my twenties; I really connected with this book and enjoyed reading it.
It's possible you could read this book and know what you want to do with your life, but even if there isn't an epiphany moment; it's a well written book that can be a conversation starter and jumping off point for living in your twenties. The authors don't claim to have all of the answers, but they do a good job in their presentation.
I definitely recommend this to fellow twenty-somethings. I'll be sure to go read it again.
*Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. The review was my honest opinion. No compensation was received.*
This is a good book that chronicles a lot of truths into one place. As an individual currently in my twenties; I really connected with this book and enjoyed reading it.
It's possible you could read this book and know what you want to do with your life, but even if there isn't an epiphany moment; it's a well written book that can be a conversation starter and jumping off point for living in your twenties. The authors don't claim to have all of the answers, but they do a good job in their presentation.
I definitely recommend this to fellow twenty-somethings. I'll be sure to go read it again.
*Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. The review was my honest opinion. No compensation was received.*
September 14, 2024
I started reading this book with high expectations and was not disappointed! Drew and Jess do a fantastic job of tackling a big topic in a way that encourages action and thought even when the book is closed. Each chapter ends with suggested activities to help the reader engage with the content and questions that allow the reader to dig deeper into personal application. This book encourages readers to see the connections between their faith, vocation, passions, and relationships. I highly recommend this book for not just those who feel lost in their twenties, but also for those who simply want to be challenged or encouraged in their journey.
March 31, 2018
Let me start by saying that if you’re a twentysomething, I highly recommend this book!! (Though, as is often the case with a book like this, the true value of the book is in its exercises)
I’m always on the look out for books that aid people in their discipleship. I get particularly excited about resources that help those in their twentysomethings make sense of life, which is why I was excited to get my hands on Ready or Not by Drew Moser & Jess Fankhauser. The book addresses the question, “What are my twenties for anyway?” and guides you in examining your life for indications of where God has been and work and what that reveals about your future.
Ready or Not is a beautifully practical book that takes a comprehensive look at vocation in its many dimensions. It’s nine chapters are: Vocation, God & Us, Past & Present, Dimensions & Rhythms, Spirituality, Work, Family, Church, Community. Each chapter ends with exercises and discussion questions to engage the content of the chapter. The exercises call you to examine and reflect on each arena of life digging in to the ways God has been at work preparing you for your unique work.
One of the gifts of the book is that the exercises have a wider relevance that twentysomethings. Due to the focus on vocation these exercises will benefit people in all stages of life! I reckon this is a book that a person could return to every four to five years for reevaluation and deeper reflection on God’s work.
The exercises cover a range of topics, and you’ll get out of them what you put in. To give a further picture of the breadth of the content covered, some of the exercises tackle:
• Conducting an audit of how you spend your time.
• Reflecting on a selection of names and attributes of God
• Taking personality tests, integrating the results and reflecting on their implications for calling
• Evaluating current spiritual practices, and creating a plan for healthy spiritual rhythms.
• Examining our current job/role, its fit and our attitude toward our work.
• Creating an expanded family tree and considering our contribution to our “family”.
• Reflecting on your church involvement, spiritual heritage, and church preferences.
• Researching the rhythms and needs of your community.
Though a simple read through the book would benefit you, the true value of a book like this is in doing the exercises—I firmly believe that taking the time to prayerfully engage the exercises and discuss your findings will be a transformational experience. I’m glad to have a resource like this available.
I’ll end with nine quotes, one that resonated with me from each chapter:
Chapter 1: Vocation
“The richness of vocation is that it requires hearts and lives attuned and responsive to God in all dimensions of life” (8)
Chapter 2: God & Us
“If the things you do are normative to you but distinctive to others, pay attention. You’re getting a glimpse of who God created you to be (30)
Chapter 3: Past & Present
“An intentional, guided reflection of your past should help inform, clarify, and refine your calling” (47).
Chapter 4: Dimensions & Rhythms
“Rhythms can imprison you through mindless repetition. They can become ruts in your heart, mind, body, and soul. But when done well, rhythms can also nourish you” (71).
Chapter 5: Spirituality
“Contemplation is a radically simple yet perpetually elusive spiritual practice. It is the practice of focusing one’s life on God in the here and now” (86)
Chapter 6: Work
“Go where you’re sent, stay where you’re put, give what you’ve got, do so until you’re done” (111, building on Jill Briscoe).
Chapter 7: Family
“Your twenties are a time when you can draw a wider circle of family, when you have expectations but hold them loosely, knowing that families form and grow in many wonderful ways” (139).
Chapter 8: Church
“Church is more properly experienced through the lens of investment, not consumption” (153).
Chapter 9: Community
“Being a neighbor is something entirely different from merely having neighbors. Being a neighbor requires action, responsibility, care” (181).
I’m always on the look out for books that aid people in their discipleship. I get particularly excited about resources that help those in their twentysomethings make sense of life, which is why I was excited to get my hands on Ready or Not by Drew Moser & Jess Fankhauser. The book addresses the question, “What are my twenties for anyway?” and guides you in examining your life for indications of where God has been and work and what that reveals about your future.
Ready or Not is a beautifully practical book that takes a comprehensive look at vocation in its many dimensions. It’s nine chapters are: Vocation, God & Us, Past & Present, Dimensions & Rhythms, Spirituality, Work, Family, Church, Community. Each chapter ends with exercises and discussion questions to engage the content of the chapter. The exercises call you to examine and reflect on each arena of life digging in to the ways God has been at work preparing you for your unique work.
One of the gifts of the book is that the exercises have a wider relevance that twentysomethings. Due to the focus on vocation these exercises will benefit people in all stages of life! I reckon this is a book that a person could return to every four to five years for reevaluation and deeper reflection on God’s work.
The exercises cover a range of topics, and you’ll get out of them what you put in. To give a further picture of the breadth of the content covered, some of the exercises tackle:
• Conducting an audit of how you spend your time.
• Reflecting on a selection of names and attributes of God
• Taking personality tests, integrating the results and reflecting on their implications for calling
• Evaluating current spiritual practices, and creating a plan for healthy spiritual rhythms.
• Examining our current job/role, its fit and our attitude toward our work.
• Creating an expanded family tree and considering our contribution to our “family”.
• Reflecting on your church involvement, spiritual heritage, and church preferences.
• Researching the rhythms and needs of your community.
Though a simple read through the book would benefit you, the true value of a book like this is in doing the exercises—I firmly believe that taking the time to prayerfully engage the exercises and discuss your findings will be a transformational experience. I’m glad to have a resource like this available.
I’ll end with nine quotes, one that resonated with me from each chapter:
Chapter 1: Vocation
“The richness of vocation is that it requires hearts and lives attuned and responsive to God in all dimensions of life” (8)
Chapter 2: God & Us
“If the things you do are normative to you but distinctive to others, pay attention. You’re getting a glimpse of who God created you to be (30)
Chapter 3: Past & Present
“An intentional, guided reflection of your past should help inform, clarify, and refine your calling” (47).
Chapter 4: Dimensions & Rhythms
“Rhythms can imprison you through mindless repetition. They can become ruts in your heart, mind, body, and soul. But when done well, rhythms can also nourish you” (71).
Chapter 5: Spirituality
“Contemplation is a radically simple yet perpetually elusive spiritual practice. It is the practice of focusing one’s life on God in the here and now” (86)
Chapter 6: Work
“Go where you’re sent, stay where you’re put, give what you’ve got, do so until you’re done” (111, building on Jill Briscoe).
Chapter 7: Family
“Your twenties are a time when you can draw a wider circle of family, when you have expectations but hold them loosely, knowing that families form and grow in many wonderful ways” (139).
Chapter 8: Church
“Church is more properly experienced through the lens of investment, not consumption” (153).
Chapter 9: Community
“Being a neighbor is something entirely different from merely having neighbors. Being a neighbor requires action, responsibility, care” (181).
April 14, 2018
***DISCLAIMER***I received a complimentary copy of this book for free from Tyndale House for review purposes.
Drew Moser and Jess Fankhauser’s Ready Or Not: Leaning Into Life In Our Twenties attempts to answer the question, “What are my twenties for, anyway?” (p. xiii). Moser and Fankhauser (who are co-directors of the Vocation In College Project) make the bold claim that the reader “won’t find another book that will challenge you to lean into this question quite the way this does” (p. xiii). While I am not sure one can literally “lean into” a question, I am sure that the authors’ goal (to equip one to live one’s twenties “with hope, purpose and meaning”) is off-mission compared to what the Scriptures say (p. xviii). Early and often, the authors place much emphasis on things such as the “good life” and the “here and now.” Unfortunately, they place little to no emphasis on the Great Commission, said Commission involving making disciples of all nations, preaching repentance for the forgiveness of sins in His name (Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:36-49).
As for my opinion of the book, I definitely would not recommend it to anyone. While it should be noted that the authors claim to be “new authors” (p. 201), that does not excuse them from producing a book that shows very little to no discernment, emphasis on sound doctrine, and reverence for Jesus Christ (the Savior of the world, mind you), among other things (1 Timothy 1:15; Matthew 1:21; John 1:29). Specifically, the book’s narcigesis (p. 20), prooftexting (p. 21), dishonest citation of verses (p. 22 in the case of 2 Peter 3:9), promotion of the unbiblical dream-destiny thingy (pp. 36-37), endorsement of the unbiblical practice of contemplative prayer (p. 73), heretical concept of the Holy Spirit (p. 117) and citation of occultists/false teachers (such as Carl Jung and Eugene Peterson, respectively; pp. 33, 70, 108, 153) are all awful and inexcusable. How this book got the label of “Christian Life/Personal Growth” despite its obvious problems is beyond me. This book does not help me grow at all. Furthermore, given its being off-mission, there is no way this book will help me in my “Christian Life.” The only thing this book is good for is research purposes. Aside from that, stay away.
Drew Moser and Jess Fankhauser’s Ready Or Not: Leaning Into Life In Our Twenties attempts to answer the question, “What are my twenties for, anyway?” (p. xiii). Moser and Fankhauser (who are co-directors of the Vocation In College Project) make the bold claim that the reader “won’t find another book that will challenge you to lean into this question quite the way this does” (p. xiii). While I am not sure one can literally “lean into” a question, I am sure that the authors’ goal (to equip one to live one’s twenties “with hope, purpose and meaning”) is off-mission compared to what the Scriptures say (p. xviii). Early and often, the authors place much emphasis on things such as the “good life” and the “here and now.” Unfortunately, they place little to no emphasis on the Great Commission, said Commission involving making disciples of all nations, preaching repentance for the forgiveness of sins in His name (Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:36-49).
As for my opinion of the book, I definitely would not recommend it to anyone. While it should be noted that the authors claim to be “new authors” (p. 201), that does not excuse them from producing a book that shows very little to no discernment, emphasis on sound doctrine, and reverence for Jesus Christ (the Savior of the world, mind you), among other things (1 Timothy 1:15; Matthew 1:21; John 1:29). Specifically, the book’s narcigesis (p. 20), prooftexting (p. 21), dishonest citation of verses (p. 22 in the case of 2 Peter 3:9), promotion of the unbiblical dream-destiny thingy (pp. 36-37), endorsement of the unbiblical practice of contemplative prayer (p. 73), heretical concept of the Holy Spirit (p. 117) and citation of occultists/false teachers (such as Carl Jung and Eugene Peterson, respectively; pp. 33, 70, 108, 153) are all awful and inexcusable. How this book got the label of “Christian Life/Personal Growth” despite its obvious problems is beyond me. This book does not help me grow at all. Furthermore, given its being off-mission, there is no way this book will help me in my “Christian Life.” The only thing this book is good for is research purposes. Aside from that, stay away.
April 16, 2018
I'm very grateful for how life has unfolded into my mid-thirties, but - even so - I know that I would have benefited from reading this book a decade and a half ago. My reflections of a decade and a half ago about the future were rather segmented. Central to the insight and helpfulness of Ready or Not is that Jess and Drew help you to think in an integrated fashion, recognizing how family, talents, faith, and such all interact. The chapter-concluding exercises help one process and implement the chapters' lessons, and the reader is much the better for it. Overall, it was a helpful read even at this point in my life...and I've got a new go-to book for friends processing career and vocation in their twenties.
(full disclosure: the agency I work for represents Jess, Drew, and this book)
(full disclosure: the agency I work for represents Jess, Drew, and this book)
August 24, 2018
An enlightening read that was so much better than I expected. Having just finished Foundations of the Christian Liberal Arts (a course at Taylor University that explores a similar idea) a week earlier, I was slightly afraid the authors would experience the same issues I had encountered in reading the course materials for that class, such as losing their own voice in bringing in other quotes, using examples poorly, and readers having trouble understanding. Fortunately, I found this to be easy to follow along but challenging read that holds readers accountable. This was a book that came into my life at just the right time and I would recommend it to my peers.
The only thing I found a little frustrating was the change between voices of Drew and Jess that felt random and kind of hit the reader out of nowhere without preparation.
The only thing I found a little frustrating was the change between voices of Drew and Jess that felt random and kind of hit the reader out of nowhere without preparation.
August 23, 2018
For the last year and a half, I’ve had the privilege of participating in Fuller Youth Institute's Youth Ministry Innovation Cohort. Part of this has meant creating a project to do in my youth ministry involving an ancient practice: Vocation. This has meant taking a deep dive into vocation: What it is, what it means, and how it impacts us. For this reason, I was excited to read Ready or Not: Leaning Into Life In Our Twenties by Drew Moser and Jess Fankhauser.
In Ready or Not, Drew and Jess begin by exploring vocation, which they define as “the pursuit of a life lived faithfully with God that includes the many dimensions of the good life.” According to them, “Vocation…is a beautiful reminder of his work in the world through us, a connection of humans to God’s larger story and the hope to which we have been called.” Having read a ton about vocation in the last six months, I was pleasantly surprised when I encountered an innovative definition of vocation.
After defining vocation, Drew and Jess then explore several factors that influence our vocation, including our past and our present experiences as well as the various dimensions and rhythms of our lives. They then look at several aspects of life that vocation impacts including our work, family, church, and community. I appreciated their fresh take on even these familiar aspects of vocation.
Even though I’m no longer in my twenties, I loved Ready or Not. It has something to offer to anyone interested in learning more about vocation. As a Minister of Youth and Family, this is a book I could easily see using as a small group Bible study with high school or college students, especially since it’s chapter-ending activities and discussion questions are both exceptionally well-done. It’s also a book I’ll send to a few 20-somethings I know. I’m convinced it will help them understand that their “twenties aren’t just a holding room for real life in the future; they are real life.”
That’s something I long for high school students, young adults, and let’s face it – adults of any age - to know. Regardless of your age, your life is real life. And because it is, you can live out your vocation NOW.
*************************************************
Disclosure: I received a free copy of Ready or Not: Leaning Into Life In Our Twenties from the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for a fair and honest review.
In Ready or Not, Drew and Jess begin by exploring vocation, which they define as “the pursuit of a life lived faithfully with God that includes the many dimensions of the good life.” According to them, “Vocation…is a beautiful reminder of his work in the world through us, a connection of humans to God’s larger story and the hope to which we have been called.” Having read a ton about vocation in the last six months, I was pleasantly surprised when I encountered an innovative definition of vocation.
After defining vocation, Drew and Jess then explore several factors that influence our vocation, including our past and our present experiences as well as the various dimensions and rhythms of our lives. They then look at several aspects of life that vocation impacts including our work, family, church, and community. I appreciated their fresh take on even these familiar aspects of vocation.
Even though I’m no longer in my twenties, I loved Ready or Not. It has something to offer to anyone interested in learning more about vocation. As a Minister of Youth and Family, this is a book I could easily see using as a small group Bible study with high school or college students, especially since it’s chapter-ending activities and discussion questions are both exceptionally well-done. It’s also a book I’ll send to a few 20-somethings I know. I’m convinced it will help them understand that their “twenties aren’t just a holding room for real life in the future; they are real life.”
That’s something I long for high school students, young adults, and let’s face it – adults of any age - to know. Regardless of your age, your life is real life. And because it is, you can live out your vocation NOW.
*************************************************
Disclosure: I received a free copy of Ready or Not: Leaning Into Life In Our Twenties from the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 18, 2021
While this book talks a lot about transition periods, it would be better to read before or after transitional periods rather than in the midst of one. Reading this in a transitional period makes some of the questions harder to answer and to think through.
Main take away would be their definition of vocation- "the pursuit of a life lived faithfully with God that includes the many dimensions of the good life" and the reminder vocation isn't just a job, or a goal to achieve. This book also continually calls and reminds you to be present in many different areas of life, with family, community, church, etc.
Main take away would be their definition of vocation- "the pursuit of a life lived faithfully with God that includes the many dimensions of the good life" and the reminder vocation isn't just a job, or a goal to achieve. This book also continually calls and reminds you to be present in many different areas of life, with family, community, church, etc.
September 4, 2025
I'm currently 21 and about to be 22 this year. I am a 4th year-college, nearing the end of my internship, and was offered to work part-time in the company.
I am in a stage of life where I have to be truly independent and somehow, make sense of my life.
This scares me and I am riddled with anxiety. But this book made me realize what I can do to navigate the dimensions of my life. To be fully present and fully prepared of the here and now.
I just randomly picked up this book from our shelf and I'm glad for the lessons it taught me.
As I enter this transition of my life, I know that I have wisdom to overcome any challenges and to build something beautiful out of it.
<3
I am in a stage of life where I have to be truly independent and somehow, make sense of my life.
This scares me and I am riddled with anxiety. But this book made me realize what I can do to navigate the dimensions of my life. To be fully present and fully prepared of the here and now.
I just randomly picked up this book from our shelf and I'm glad for the lessons it taught me.
As I enter this transition of my life, I know that I have wisdom to overcome any challenges and to build something beautiful out of it.
<3
April 3, 2018
As a twentysomething I really enjoyed this book. Each chapter visits a different dimension of life and how as a twentysomething we can lean into each dimension with hope, meaning, and purpose. Each chapter includes exercises and discussion questions which make it perfect for small group discussions. #ReadyorNotbook
February 18, 2019
A beautiful and profoundly thoughtful guide to surviving, or more accurately thriving, in one’s twenties. I recommend reading once through to get the big picture, then subsequent slower readings to meditate on the questions and complete the exercises. This book is not lacking in thoughts to savour.
As John Piper would say, “linger, linger, linger!”
As John Piper would say, “linger, linger, linger!”
November 18, 2024
I think the book serves its purpose in the best way that it can but some of the advice and practices felt too unrealistic/impractical. Some solid pieces of wisdom but the workbook style was not for me.
April 1, 2024
A really good overview of the areas of life that most influence people in their twenties and how to analyze which direction one wants to move in these areas.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews