Recently, I’ve shared books to read your little kids for family worship and books to help you teach your kids the faith.

Now, I’d like to share some great books to read with your teens to deepen your relationship with them, sharpen their thinking, and stir their affections for Christ.

A Word on Method

Before the list, allow me to say a word about method. Teenagers are in a stage of life where they’re getting used to their adult thinking and acting. The teenage years are notoriously difficult for parents because teens are in a transitional phase; they’re not quite little kids anymore, yet they’re not full fledged adults. Discipling them, therefore, isn’t merely sitting them down and telling them what to believe (like we do with children), but sitting down with them, modeling for and helping them learn how to think toward solid truth and wisdom.

The best way to accomplish this is to read books with them and provide opportunities to explore the text you read together. My suggestion is to:

(1) Buy yourself and your child copies of whichever book you choose

(2) Assign a digestible portion for your both to read

(3) Encourage them to write down questions they think are interesting and highlight points they think are important to talk through in their book (remember, real reading requires writing a little!)

(4) Take them out to a favorite restaurant, ice cream place, or coffee shop where you can enjoy a treat together and have unhurried time to explore the section.

I find this helpful with teens because the text (assuming its good) will give tons to learn from and consider. The discussion will allow them time to exercise their intake skills (reading, listening) and outtake skills (speaking) and deepen their bond with you. This will provide them opportunities to learn true things and practice good skills and help them mature as image bearers, feeling the freedom that comes with discovering truth, goodness, and beauty.

Also, this method is not preparation heavy. There’s no scope and sequence, no worksheets, no lectures to prepare, and no tests to take or grades to assign. There is no work to be done but read, reflect for yourself, and then discuss with your child to explore all its treasures together.

Good Questions to Consider

For the discussion, make sure your questions are open ended to help stir conversation instead of closing it. If you choose a more theological text, consider preparing questions like these:

• What did you find most interesting or surprising? Why?
• Are there any questions or things you don’t understand from this reading?
• What do we learn about God’s character in this?
• What did you learn about yourself in this?
• How does what we’ve read compare to other things you’ve heard or read from other places?
• What lessons could we apply to our own lives?

If you are reading a biography or novel, try these on for size:

• How do you think the characters felt during this event?
• If you were in [character’s name]’s place, what would you have done differently?
• How does this story compare to others we’ve read, or stories you know from other places?
• What do you think this story tells us about [God, goodness, forgiveness, love, etc.]?
• Do you think this story would be different if told from another character’s perspective? Why?
• What does this text teach us about virtue (that is, what being a good human means)?
• How do you feel after reading this story?
• How does this challenge you?

As you can see, discussing texts with teens goes far when you allow them to take part in what’s focused on together. Don’t come in with an agenda other than to talk about the things of God and the good life – the good, the true, and the beautiful – with your child. Each hour spent together will not only stir them and equip them, but it will provide you priceless time to deepen your bond with your child and give them a taste of the deliciousness of pursuing truth together.

Books to Consider

Here is a list of books I plan to read with my kids in their teenage years.

Biographies

The sermons that people’s lives preach are hard to ignore.

Here are some biographies that will supply you and your child loads to be challenged, inspired, and stirred up by.

The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom. Corrie ten Boom tells her story of helping Jews escape the Holocaust and her experience in a Nazi concentration camp during World War II. It’s a powerful story of faith, courage, and forgiveness.

Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot. This book tells the story of five missionaries, including Elliot’s husband Jim, who were killed in Ecuador while trying to reach the Waodani (Huaorani) tribe with the gospel. It’s a testament to missionary zeal and the impact one can have even in death.

God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew with John and Elizabeth Sherrill. Brother Andrew, known for smuggling Bibles into communist countries, shares his adventures and how faith guided him through dangerous missions behind the Iron Curtain.

Amy Carmichael: Rescuer of Precious Gems by Janet and Geoff Benge (from the Christian Heroes: Then & Now series). Amy Carmichael’s life story of missionary work in India, where she established an orphanage and refuge for temple girls, is beautifully told in this book aimed at younger readers but still appealing to teens.

The Jesus Freaks Series by DC Talk and the Voice of the Martyrs. Although more biographical, these books tell the stories of young Christians who faced persecution for their faith, inspiring courage and conviction in readers.

Novels

Novels provide a unique opportunity to learn about reality through the window of fiction. Stories can do more than just entertain us, but form us.

Here are some good novels to start with.

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. Although not explicitly Christian in narrative, these books are rich with Christian allegory. The series follows the adventures of children in the magical land of Narnia, where they encounter Aslan, a Christ-like lion.

The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson. This series includes “On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness,” “North! Or Be Eaten,” “The Monster in the Hollows,” and “The Warden and the Wolf King.” It tells the story of the Igiby siblings in the world of Aerwiar, with themes of faith, courage, and redemption.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. This novel introduces us to Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who embarks on an adventure with a wizard and thirteen dwarves. While not overtly Christian, Tolkien’s work is imbued with themes of good vs. evil, redemption, and the power of humility and courage, which resonate with Christian values.

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. A sequel to “The Hobbit,” this epic trilogy follows Frodo Baggins and the Fellowship of the Ring on a quest to destroy the One Ring. It’s filled with Christian symbolism, particularly in the themes of sacrifice, the battle against corruption, and the redemptive power of mercy and humility.

Theology

Tozer once said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” He was right. Therefore, helping your child think deeply about God is one of the most important tasks you have as a parent.

Here are some great books to help with that.

This Changes Everything: How the Gospel Transforms the Teen Years by Jaquelle Crowe. A theologically rich yet accessible book written by a teenager for teenagers. It explains how the gospel radically impacts every aspect of a teen’s life, from relationships to personal habits. This book is excellent for teens because it challenges them to live out their faith with purpose and conviction, offering practical insights into applying the gospel’s truths during their formative years. It encourages a deeper, more serious commitment to Christianity at a time when many might be swayed by cultural pressures.

The Big God Story by Vaughn Roberts. A comprehensive overview of the Bible’s narrative, focusing on the theme of the kingdom of God. It’s excellent for teens because it simplifies complex biblical stories into one cohesive storyline, helping them understand how each part of the Bible interconnects. This book equips young readers with tools to read and interpret Scripture with confidence, making it an invaluable resource for deepening their faith and biblical literacy.

Life’s Biggest Questions by Erik Thoennes. This book tackles fifteen of life’s biggest questions relating to God and His relationship to humanity, presenting biblical answers. It’s an excellent crash course on Christianity for believers and seekers alike.

10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin. This book addresses ten common questions that teens might have about Christianity, from the reliability of the Bible to issues of faith and science, providing clear, biblically-based answers.

Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by Alex & Brett Harris. While not strictly a theology book, it challenges Christian teens to live out their faith through action, encouraging them to think deeply about their purpose and calling from a biblical perspective.

One Life by Rico Tice. A jargon-free introduction to Christianity, this book explores who Jesus is, why He came, and what it means to follow Him, using the Gospel of Mark. It’s ideal for anyone with little or no experience of Christianity, especially teens.

If I Could Ask God One Question by Barry Cooper.This book answers the 12 most frequently asked questions about God, providing thoughtful, compassionate answers from a Christian perspective. It’s designed to engage those curious about faith or those who have specific questions they’d like addressed.

The Case for Faith for Kids by Lee Strobel. An adaptation of Strobel’s adult book, this version tackles tough questions about faith, such as the problem of suffering, miracles, and the exclusivity of Christianity, all aimed at a younger audience. If your kids can handle it, go for the adult version.

A Student’s Guide to Culture by John Stonestreet and Brett Kunkle. This book equips teens to navigate contemporary culture through a biblical worldview, addressing topics like media, music, sex, and more, helping them discern and engage with culture critically.

A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World. by Sean McDowell. A guide for young Christians seeking to navigate modern cultural challenges while adhering to their faith. It encourages a form of rebellion that is loving and just, addressing topics like bullying, social media, sex, and climate change from a biblical perspective. The book provides practical advice and promotes civil engagement, urging readers to speak truth in love, fostering a spirit of kindness, understanding, and respect in a world often at odds with Christian values.

(For Our Daughters) Lies Young Women Believe. And the Truth that Sets Them Free by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth and Dannah Gresh: This book targets teenage girls, debunking common myths and lies about identity, beauty, relationships, and faith, encouraging them to embrace truth and live according to biblical principles.

(For Our Sons) What He Must Be… If He Wants to Marry My Daughter by Voddie Baucham Jr.. Although more directed at parents, this book discusses the biblical qualifications for a godly husband, which can be insightful for young men considering relationships, marriage, and family from a Christian perspective.

Philosophy

We won’t be able to live well unless we know how to think well. These books will help you and your child do just that.

Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder by Ross D. Inman presents philosophy as an integral part of Christian living, emphasizing wonder as the catalyst for exploring life’s big questions through grace-empowered practices. It’s good for teens because it invites them to harmonize their faith with intellectual curiosity, providing practical tools for personal and spiritual growth while navigating modern challenges. This book encourages young readers to live philosophically in a way that aligns with Christian values, making philosophy accessible and relevant to their daily lives.

Five Dialogues by Plato. This collection includes essential works like “Euthyphro,” “Apology,” “Crito,” “Meno,” and “Phaedo,” where Socrates grapples with questions of ethics, justice, and knowledge. It’s an invaluable read for teens as it introduces them to the art of critical thinking, moral philosophy, and the Socratic method, encouraging a deeper exploration of personal and societal values.

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. Written by a Roman Emperor, this book is a personal reflection on Stoic philosophy, emphasizing self-discipline, humility, and acceptance of life’s challenges. It’s a great resource for teenagers learning to manage their emotional and personal growth, offering insights into leadership, resilience, and maintaining inner peace in the face of external turmoil.

Letters from a Stoic by Seneca. This compilation of letters provides Seneca’s guidance on living a virtuous life through Stoic philosophy, touching on themes like friendship, anger management, and facing mortality. It’s particularly useful for teens because it teaches emotional regulation, the pursuit of wisdom, and how to navigate life’s highs and lows with grace.

Enchiridion by Epictetus. A succinct guide to Stoicism, this book offers practical advice on controlling one’s desires and focusing on what is within one’s power. Its directness and practicality make it an excellent choice for teenagers seeking quick, actionable wisdom to lead a life of virtue, especially under the pressures of modern life.

Love Your God with All Your Mind: The Role of Reason in the Life of the Soul by J.P. Moreland. Moreland argues for the integration of faith and intellect, encouraging Christians to engage with philosophy and science. It’s an inspirational call to use their minds for God’s glory, showing how intellectual pursuit can deepen faith.

May we enthusiastically follow the counsel Augustine once received and, “Tolle lege.” In so doing, joy will be our portion.