Twentysomthing

Surviving and Thriving in the Real World

Author – Margaret Feinberg

My first thought was that this would be a “survival guide” for college students. I couldn't have been more wrong! Author Margaret Feinberg jumps right into the “rude awakenings” of adult life post graduation. Feinberg uses fascinating stories of the reality of the first job, paying bills, and relationships to get her point across.

After the first chapter of “revealed” surprises, Feinberg delves into the “twentysomething” crisis known as “quarter-life crisis” (just short of the mid-life crisis). This chapter details the challenges of setting expectations and finding oneself. It ends with great advice/wisdom with regards to trusting God in the midst of our busy lives and in our crises.

Throughout the next few chapters, Feinberg discusses the deep mind-boggling questions that bombard the twentysomethings as they establish themselves - “Where is God in all this?”, “Who am I?”, “Can I do it?”, “Where do I go from here?”, and the big one, “Will anyone ever love me?”. Feinberg ponders these questions and answers them the best she can from her experience and her faith.

After three chapters of perplexing questions, Feinberg jumps right into coping with hard times. According to Feinberg, twentysomethings are impacted with the truth that they are no longer invincible. Although not all troubles are the same, the author suggests that the “fingerprints” of God can always be found through your tough times. Like other topics in the book, the author uses personal stories to present her point. Additionally, each chapter ends with verses of encouragement, and pointers for dealing with a range of situations faced by the twentysomethings.

Wrapping it up, Feinberg highlights the wonders of being twentysomething. This final chapter is a wonderfully positive pick-me-up after covering chapter after chapter of challenges.

Just like the book, the twenties come to an end, and in the epilogue Feinberg offers a few pages of wisdom for facing the big 3-0.

Although I'm in my mid-thirties, I can relate many of the topics she covers. This book was so well written that I read through it effortlessly, and gained much from Feinberg's experiences. I was encouraged by how her faith had led her through these experiences. I would highly recommend this book for college students, or even as a high-school graduation present. Through this book, Feinberg offers preventative therapy for the coming challenges of the 20s.

- Ken W.