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Why?: Powerful Answers and Practical Reasons for Living LDS Standards
Now, the most important answers for LDS youth ages 12 18 can be found in one book. The authors use quotes from Church leaders, informative real- life stories, and colorful graphics to engage the minds of teenagers. Most important, this invaluable book gives readers, including leaders and parents, the doctrinal whys to back up the standards found in the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet. Features answers to more than 100 questions, such Why do some people who break the commandments appear happy? Why shouldn t I just try alcohol, just so I can see what it tastes like? Why is wearing two pairs of earrings such a big deal? Or is it? Why is it wrong to steady date someone if we both have high standards? Why is 16 the magical age is it all that different from 15? Why is pornography a big deal if it doesn t hurt anybody? Why shouldn't I wear flip-flops to Church? Why do some people who pay tithing still not have a lot of money? Why should I talk to the bishop about certain sins?
368 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 21, 2011
Just read this again. I loved it again.
This book opens with a quote from President Boyd K. Packer that says,
"It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!'
I bought this for my upcoming teenagers. It's fabulous. The questions and answers are concise, easy to understand, and commonsensical. Plus, they're laid out on bright, catchy pages. It's really fun to read.
The book features answers to more than 100 questions, such as: Why do some people who break the commandments appear happy? Why shouldn t I just try alcohol, just so I can see what it tastes like? Why is wearing two pairs of earrings such a big deal? Or is it? Why is it wrong to steady date someone if we both have high standards? Why is 16 the magical age is it all that different from 15? Why is pornography a big deal if it doesn t hurt anybody? Why shouldn't I wear flip-flops to Church? Why do some people who pay tithing still not have a lot of money?
Good stuff.
This book opens with a quote from President Boyd K. Packer that says,
"It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!'
I bought this for my upcoming teenagers. It's fabulous. The questions and answers are concise, easy to understand, and commonsensical. Plus, they're laid out on bright, catchy pages. It's really fun to read.
The book features answers to more than 100 questions, such as: Why do some people who break the commandments appear happy? Why shouldn t I just try alcohol, just so I can see what it tastes like? Why is wearing two pairs of earrings such a big deal? Or is it? Why is it wrong to steady date someone if we both have high standards? Why is 16 the magical age is it all that different from 15? Why is pornography a big deal if it doesn t hurt anybody? Why shouldn't I wear flip-flops to Church? Why do some people who pay tithing still not have a lot of money?
Good stuff.
December 10, 2011
Read this book during my religious phase (yes I go through phases, I have one for just about everything). While I read this I was going to church with a friend of mine who's LDS. However, despite my interest in the Church and my questions, the book just didn't sell anything. Now I realize that that probably wasn't its main goal. In actuality it was probably for someone who is already a member of the church but is questioning their faith. But reading it from an outside, unbiased, point of view, I just didn't care for it. Some of the answers did make sense and had good reasoning behind them, while most of the others didn't really. Those bad ones might make sense to a church member, but again, to me, the didn't.
***Just FYI the following might sound offensive, but I don't mean to be. I don't mean to belittle faith or belief. It's just a little schpeel about how I felt about a particular part of the book.***
There was one in particular that I found pretty offensive actually. .
Okay and so now here's a little story time to finish off the review. I was having movie night at a friends, an LDS friends. We were watching some movie that had the preview for one of the Twilight movies on it. When I mentioned how much I loved the girl they got to play Alice, my friend agreed with me. Then she went on to say how it was a shame that the actress had done porn. I was shocked =O shocked I say. I figured that some tidbit of information like that would have led to some large scandal. So I asked my friend how she knew that the actress did porn. My friend replied that the actress did a Maxim spread and that was the same thing as porn. Again color me =O....Soon after I learned that in the LDS faith, as backed by this book, that if a woman is dressed immodestly that that is considered pornography. If a picture or story can impose impure thoughts, it's porn. Who knew? I countered, to my friend, that, using the same logic, Taylor Lautner must be a porn star, to which there was no reply. She presented this double standard that was present in the book. The author made no mention of a man who, going shirtless,might cause impure thoughts. Just that the girls that did, dress immodestly were creating a problem for their brothers and "why would a faithful sister want to create a problem for her brother?"
Again I will say that this book was definitely meant for someone who is already LDS. I can say with almost certainty that someone not of this faith, or at least someone who's not religious, will not enjoy this book. It does give answers that any one of my LDS associates would back up. Who do I recommend this for; kids who have grown up in a LDS household but are questioning aspects of their faith. Those are really the only people I can see getting something positive out of this book.
***Just FYI the following might sound offensive, but I don't mean to be. I don't mean to belittle faith or belief. It's just a little schpeel about how I felt about a particular part of the book.***
There was one in particular that I found pretty offensive actually. .
Okay and so now here's a little story time to finish off the review. I was having movie night at a friends, an LDS friends. We were watching some movie that had the preview for one of the Twilight movies on it. When I mentioned how much I loved the girl they got to play Alice, my friend agreed with me. Then she went on to say how it was a shame that the actress had done porn. I was shocked =O shocked I say. I figured that some tidbit of information like that would have led to some large scandal. So I asked my friend how she knew that the actress did porn. My friend replied that the actress did a Maxim spread and that was the same thing as porn. Again color me =O....Soon after I learned that in the LDS faith, as backed by this book, that if a woman is dressed immodestly that that is considered pornography. If a picture or story can impose impure thoughts, it's porn. Who knew? I countered, to my friend, that, using the same logic, Taylor Lautner must be a porn star, to which there was no reply. She presented this double standard that was present in the book. The author made no mention of a man who, going shirtless,might cause impure thoughts. Just that the girls that did, dress immodestly were creating a problem for their brothers and "why would a faithful sister want to create a problem for her brother?"
Again I will say that this book was definitely meant for someone who is already LDS. I can say with almost certainty that someone not of this faith, or at least someone who's not religious, will not enjoy this book. It does give answers that any one of my LDS associates would back up. Who do I recommend this for; kids who have grown up in a LDS household but are questioning aspects of their faith. Those are really the only people I can see getting something positive out of this book.
July 17, 2009
The teaser for this book came out several months ago and I was quick to get on the waiting list at the library. For several days I engrossed myself in this book. My kids (who aren't teenagers yet and haven't thought to ask why) loved looking and reading through this book. It begins with a quote by President Boyd K. Packer that says,
"It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!'"
The way this book is put together is great with it's catchy graphics and fun trivia. It's a must for every LDS family and one that is going on my Christmas wish list. My kids were a little sad when I had to return it to the library.
Here's the website that allows you to browse excerpts of the book.
http://ldswhy.com/
Why should I keep the commandments?
Why should I listen and follow the prophet?
Why should I keep the word of wisdom?
Why shouldn’t I pierce or tattoo my body?
Why should I dress modestly?
Why should I be sexually pure?
Why does it matter who my friends are?
Why shouldn’t I date until I'm 16?
Why shouldn’t I steady date in high school?
Why should I get married in the temple?
Why should I want to have children when I’m married?
Why can’t I watch whatever I want?
Why shouldn’t I view pornography?
Why does the music I listen to matter?
Why are there guidelines for dancing?
Why should I use clean language?
Why should I be honest?
Why should I keep the Sabbath day holy?
Why should I fast?
Why should I pray always?
Why should I study the scriptures daily?
Why should I pay tithing?
Why should I write in a journal?
Why should I be grateful?
Why should I honor my parents?
Why ss it important to gain an education?
Why should I attend seminary and institute?
Why should I serve a mission?
Why should I repent now and not later?
"It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!'"
The way this book is put together is great with it's catchy graphics and fun trivia. It's a must for every LDS family and one that is going on my Christmas wish list. My kids were a little sad when I had to return it to the library.
Here's the website that allows you to browse excerpts of the book.
http://ldswhy.com/
Why should I keep the commandments?
Why should I listen and follow the prophet?
Why should I keep the word of wisdom?
Why shouldn’t I pierce or tattoo my body?
Why should I dress modestly?
Why should I be sexually pure?
Why does it matter who my friends are?
Why shouldn’t I date until I'm 16?
Why shouldn’t I steady date in high school?
Why should I get married in the temple?
Why should I want to have children when I’m married?
Why can’t I watch whatever I want?
Why shouldn’t I view pornography?
Why does the music I listen to matter?
Why are there guidelines for dancing?
Why should I use clean language?
Why should I be honest?
Why should I keep the Sabbath day holy?
Why should I fast?
Why should I pray always?
Why should I study the scriptures daily?
Why should I pay tithing?
Why should I write in a journal?
Why should I be grateful?
Why should I honor my parents?
Why ss it important to gain an education?
Why should I attend seminary and institute?
Why should I serve a mission?
Why should I repent now and not later?
March 31, 2011
The impetus for this book was a quote from Elder Packer: "It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!"
This book does an excellent job of explaining to youth why it is important to follow a wide range and number of commandments and Church counsel. The chapter on tithing was the only chapter I didn't like. The authors asserted that the first reason why we should pay tithing is because we will be blessed. I believe the primary reason why we should pay tithing is that we love the Lord enough to keep his commandment to pay tithes. They also perpetuate the doctrinally inaccurate assertion that tithing is some sort of "fire insurance" for the Second Coming, citing D&C ("for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming"). D&C 64, however, refers to the law of consecration, not the law of tithing; the law of tithing wasn't revealed until D&C Section 119 (almost seven years after D&C 64 was revealed). Other than the tithing chapter, the doctrine is sound, and there are multitudinous quotes from prophets and apostles, plus excellent examples, stories, statistics, and other supporting material. I really hope the authors continue to update the statistics and studies they include, because I would like to have this book in my home when my daughter is a teenager (in about a decade).
This book does an excellent job of explaining to youth why it is important to follow a wide range and number of commandments and Church counsel. The chapter on tithing was the only chapter I didn't like. The authors asserted that the first reason why we should pay tithing is because we will be blessed. I believe the primary reason why we should pay tithing is that we love the Lord enough to keep his commandment to pay tithes. They also perpetuate the doctrinally inaccurate assertion that tithing is some sort of "fire insurance" for the Second Coming, citing D&C ("for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming"). D&C 64, however, refers to the law of consecration, not the law of tithing; the law of tithing wasn't revealed until D&C Section 119 (almost seven years after D&C 64 was revealed). Other than the tithing chapter, the doctrine is sound, and there are multitudinous quotes from prophets and apostles, plus excellent examples, stories, statistics, and other supporting material. I really hope the authors continue to update the statistics and studies they include, because I would like to have this book in my home when my daughter is a teenager (in about a decade).
March 20, 2010
LDS. From the publisher: Now, the most important answers for LDS youth ages 12 18 can be found in one book. The authors use quotes from Church leaders, informative real- life stories, and colorful graphics to engage the minds of teenagers. Most important, this invaluable book gives readers, including leaders and parents, the doctrinal whys to back up the standards found in the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet. Features answers to more than 100 questions, such as: Why do some people who break the commandments appear happy? Why shouldn t I just try alcohol, just so I can see what it tastes like? Why is wearing two pairs of earrings such a big deal? Or is it? Why is it wrong to steady date someone if we both have high standards? Why is 16 the magical age is it all that different from 15? Why is pornography a big deal if it doesn t hurt anybody? Why shouldn't I wear flip-flops to Church? Why do some people who pay tithing still not have a lot of money? Why should I talk to the bishop about certain sins?
May 6, 2009
The teaser for this book came out several months ago. When Noble read the teaser he put it down and said "You have to get us this book!"
It opens with a quote from President Boyd K. Packer
"It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!'"
The book has 29 chapters written in Fun, easy to read context, that cover everything from Why does it matter who my friends are? to Why should I be honest? and Why does the music I listen to matter to Why should I repent now and not later?
I know this book is aimed at teens, but I think it is a great book to put in their hands before then, while they still talk and listen to us; as well as (for our family) when we start them on the "Decsisons I Make In Advance" as they turn twelve.
It opens with a quote from President Boyd K. Packer
"It isn't always easy to give you a 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say, 'Don't!'"
The book has 29 chapters written in Fun, easy to read context, that cover everything from Why does it matter who my friends are? to Why should I be honest? and Why does the music I listen to matter to Why should I repent now and not later?
I know this book is aimed at teens, but I think it is a great book to put in their hands before then, while they still talk and listen to us; as well as (for our family) when we start them on the "Decsisons I Make In Advance" as they turn twelve.
March 8, 2011
It was a :) day when the mail carrier delivered this book.
John Hilton III is a few years my senior and we were in the same Ward for several years while I was growing up, so I had been anxious to read the book and feel "famous." I had been intrigued by a page that was highlighted in the Deseret Book catalogue. My children are nearing the end of their Primary days, and I hoped that this could be a fun and valuable resource to start conversations as they prepare to enter their teen years.
The book did not disappoint. My seven year old loves it as do I.
Thank to Brother Hilton and Brother Sweat.
John Hilton III is a few years my senior and we were in the same Ward for several years while I was growing up, so I had been anxious to read the book and feel "famous." I had been intrigued by a page that was highlighted in the Deseret Book catalogue. My children are nearing the end of their Primary days, and I hoped that this could be a fun and valuable resource to start conversations as they prepare to enter their teen years.
The book did not disappoint. My seven year old loves it as do I.
Thank to Brother Hilton and Brother Sweat.
September 23, 2009
My youngest two are 11 and 12 and they LOVE this book!!! It answers such questions as "Why shouldn't I get a tattoo?" "What's wrong with dating before I turn 16?" "Why shouldn't I take drugs?" etc. There are tons of pictures, cool games, web sites to visit (including some very funny candid camera clips), and real facts about all the "Why's" LDS kids often wonder, but parents and teachers gloss over. I was planning to assign them one chapter a day to read, but they spend hours pouring over this book. No assignment necessary. =)
December 30, 2009
Gary bought this one for me for Christmas and I love it. It goes into detail why us peculiar mormons do or don't do the things we do or don't do. Great for teenagers or tweens. I have been reading chapters to Samuel and I can see things clicking with him that he didn't understand before. Great for those that don't understand why LDS people do or don't do things and/or have heard half truths that are spread through the rumor mill. Good book to have in ones library.
March 28, 2011
LOVED this book!!! I am going to buy it! It is so easy to read and makes so much sense. I need this book for my kids mostly for when they are teenagers, but it's great for me too. It's got all these pictures and quotes and funny little story clips, it makes you want to keep reading. Very well done!
Currently reading
April 30, 2009This book is a must for every LDS family.
Quote #8 "it isn't always easy to give youa 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say 'Don't!'"
Elder Boyd K. Packer
Quote #8 "it isn't always easy to give youa 'why' for everything. But we owe it to you of the coming generation to do more than just say 'Don't!'"
Elder Boyd K. Packer
February 5, 2010
I have learned so much from this book. I own it if you want to read it. It is all about my standards. There is stuff about dating, being honest, why we have lots of children, etc.... It answers all of the "why" questions that people at my church ask. So ask me about it and I'll let to take a look!
February 25, 2010
I love this book because it is helping us have guided discussions with our kids about why we have the standards we have and why they are such an important element of living a happy life. Right now we are taking a chapter each week for FHE.
October 17, 2010
This was so helpful. It helped me learn more about the church and our standards. It was so cool. It gives fun pictures and intresting facts. Great for kids! My younger siblings loved it. I felt I needed to make some changes afterward.....
December 6, 2011
Really good book. The format was probably what made the book more interesting, engaging, and interactive for the reader.
September 28, 2009
Very cool book. The format is fun. The content is awesome. You can either spend a little or a lot of time in this book at any given time. Excellent resource book. Hightly recommend.
July 24, 2009
this is a book to buy! i need to leave it around the house so my teen will pick it up and read it...
September 30, 2009
I whole-heartedly believe that all teenagers should read this. Even non-LDS ones. It explains so much! I think everyone at some point needs to know WHY?!
May 1, 2016
some people on my Christmas list will be receiving this book.
October 10, 2009
A MUST HAVE FOR ALL FAMILIES- fantastic, cant say enough. So perfect for young men and women about why we need to have high standards
October 17, 2009
Excellent book. If you have teenagers, this book is a must. Colorful, engaging pages which answer all types of questions.
July 26, 2019
This book is REALLY good! It DOES tell you 'Why"! It uses good examples and stories.
January 8, 2010
every family should have this- fabulous -really supports the for the strength of the youth booklet-- love IT!!!!
February 6, 2010
Good book to have in the house if you have teenagers.
February 24, 2010
My sister gave this book to our family when we were out visiting in July. We recently started using it for our Family Home Evenings. Great lessons!
August 14, 2015
This book reminds me of a more specific, engaging New Era. I love it (and it's sequel, "How"). There are lots of great answers to unique questions that people may have!
September 8, 2010
Great book to have around the house. I use it all the time when my teens ask "Why?"
March 11, 2020
Great book especially for teenagers I was frustrated with the chapter about furthering your education. It dwelled completely on college or career training. Furthering your education is so so much more than that. Besides that I really liked it and I think it’s a great resource for parents to help their kids as well. It helped me have a desire to live different commandments more fully. Hopefully it did the same for my kids.
May 30, 2020
Great read for teens to understand the why behind gospel standards for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Fun object lessons, activities, and graphics organized by topic.
November 7, 2016
It the world today our children don't just need to know how to act, they need to know the why behind our standards and principles. This book does an excellent job of explaining that. This book is formatted in a way that keeps the book a very interesting read. Highly recommended for teens.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews