Reclaiming Our Prodigal Sons and Daughters: A Practical Approach for Connecting with Youth in Conflict

by Scott Larson, Larry K. Brendtro

Offers a penetrating portrayal of the rootlessness of many of today's youth and a powerful, practical plan for reaching them. Timeless yet contemporary, this book was designed so that it will not be dated but might become a classic equally valid decades from now.

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1999

About the author

Dr. Scott Larson is the co-founder of Straight Ahead Ministries and a leading voice in juvenile justice ministry. He has authored 13 books, developed a transformative engagement model for high-risk youth, and trains professionals nationwide. He holds a doctorate in leadership and teaches at Gordon College and Gordon-Conwell Seminary.

Reviews

[Carlene Bridger · Rating 3 out of 5]

With this book title coming from the parable that Jesus shared, and its emphasis on the lack of a spiritual dimension in youth work, I was hoping for more than what I felt it delivered. Instead, it read quite secular as it discussed various practical (yet valuable) ways to walk alongside "troubled" youth. It lacks an explanation of where the Gospel fits into these practices of reconciling and redeeming youth. The odd Bible verse was thrown in, with the reference in the end notes and the odd mention of Jesus, but it was not a significant focus. It was much more psychological than spiritual, and I'm not quite sure it accomplished its goal of explaining the importance of spirituality in working with kids at risk.