"MISSIONARY POSSIBLE: Preparation Tips from New Testament Heroes," by Eric Rigby, Cedar Fort, $11.99, 144 pages (nf)
"Missionary Possible: Preparation Tips from New Testament Heroes" is a motivational book that encourages young teenagers to apply spiritual principles and habits that will benefit them throughout high school and on missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while using the New Testament as a source of teaching examples.
Combining his endearing wit with stories mostly from the book of Acts, returned missionary Eric Rigby successfully transforms the scriptures into spiritual lessons.
At first glance, "Missionary Possible" seems like a book intended for an audience that will shortly turn in mission papers or depart for the mission field. However, the humor level and long-term lifestyle suggestions aren't quite as appropriate for older teens as they are for the younger 12- and 13-year-olds. There aren't any specific references to "Preach My Gospel" or teaching techniques. Rather, Rigby's Mormon mission preparation advice is completely applicable to everyday teenage life.
While all of the book's suggestions are good ones, they are all things that young men and women have likely heard in the LDS Church many times. Rigby does his best, though, to convince his audience to turn his words into action. Most notable is his use of "acting questions" that prompt the reader to consider applications in his or her own life, as well as space at the end of each chapter to take notes, write down thoughts and make commitments.
"Missionary Possible" is a valuable resource for exposing readers to the Spirit and familiarizing them with New Testament stories.
"Missionary Possible" includes mild summaries of biblical violence.
Rigby served a mission in Romania and is an editorial assistant in the Deseret News' opinion section.
Jennifer Ball is a freelance journalist out of Los Angeles specializing in food criticism and LDS media.