The Sex Thing: Reimagining conversations with young people about sex

by Rachel Gardner

' Probably the most important topic the young people in your life are already thinking about hearing about and talking about... Rachel has written a fantastic book to guide, equip and provoke your own thinking so you can do the same for theirs. Anyone who ever talks to teens should read this.' Dr Kate Middleton, psychologist, director of the Mind & Soul Foundation

So often we talk about sex as ‘it’, a vague, unnameable thing, but as culture continues to move rapidly, it’s more important than ever that our voices are clear and confident when we talk to youth about sex. With the advancement in sex-tech and changing societal attitudes, we’re preparing young people for a very different world – one we all need to be able to talk about.

In The Sex Thing, Rachel Gardner unpacks a visual framework that can inspire and empower conversations with young people about sex. Focusing on both how young people explore sexual wholeness and what conversations they would need to engage with in that journey of sexual maturity, she offers practical advice for navigating difficult conversations with youth and talking to them confidently and openly.

Whether you are involved in youth ministry or are parenting young adults yourself, The Sex Thing is a brilliant Christian book for anyone looking for a better, more productive way of talking to youth about sex. Packed full of tips and guidance drawn from years of experience, it will equip you with all the tools you need to engage with young people surely and positively.

Together, Rachel Gardner demonstrates how we can talk about The Sex Thing in a way that actively forms a sexual ethic that our young people can thrive in.

208 pages, Paperback

Published November 12, 2021

Reviews

[Thomas Creedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s not perfect but it’s very very good. As a conversation starter it is excellent. It is gracious in a way that challenges me but also truthful in a way that encourages me. A really excellent book for leaders and parents to read and discuss. Intrigued to see what others will say. Bravo Rachel!

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of really, really good things in this. Really well written. Review to come in Global Anglicans.

[Megan Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish my youth leaders had had this book! Such a considered selection of important topics and recognition that it’s okay to have different opinions as long as God is at the centre. I think this is a must read for anyone working with youth in any capacity!

[Jonathan Gregg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of four books I read after experiencing the good ol’ wombo combo of sexual assault and purity culture. While I struggle to separate those four books out in my brain, it is undeniable that it was very helpful for me beginning to overcome the shame of the experience.

[Elise Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must-read for anyone who works with teenagers, religious or otherwise. I will read this book again with a highlighter and a third time with a group of youth leaders.