Initially, this was a hard book to get into, mostly because of Mark Steele’s unusual style of writing. Each chapter is constructed of at least two separate stories – unrelated at first glace – and then, each story is intermittently interlaced with inner monologue, or short editorials. However, once you get through the introduction and the first chapter, you can easily adapt to his methods. Ultimately, I was surprised at how he brought it all together by the end of each chapter.

Through out the book, Mark shares funny stories, painful tragedies, and personal testimony to make his point. Furthermore, each chapter teaches the reader something about themselves in regards to their present state of devotion or conviction to the Word. Although Mark’s experience leans heavily towards missions, and his personal impact, or lack of impact – the flash bang, the anecdotes can be applied to the readers’ life as well.

As Mark began to close the book, he throws a curve ball and takes you completely off guard. If you don’t feel challenged by the last few chapters and his personal honesty, then you either really have it all together, or you’re in complete denial of your own sin and the impact it has on not just your own life, but on your influence over others. I’m very happy that I gave this book a chance, and that I stuck to it until I figured out where he was going with his highly eclectic style of writing.

You can find the book on either Relevant’s web site or the books official web site at http://flashbangbook.com/flashbangbook/index.html.

- Ken W.

Also from Relevant books is the Pocket Guide to Adulthood by Jason Boyett. This short little book covers everything from cooking to playing cards, and even digs deep into finances and staying in shape. The chapters are short and it would make a cool little table-talk book. Boyett uses a lot of humor, but he is very serious about many points. For more information check out Boyett's personal web site.