According to Setran and Kiesling, the years between 18 and 30 are “the time when the fabric of life is woven together into a discernible – and increasingly solidified – pattern” (p. 2). It is also a time of anxiety, “unprecedented freedom,” delayed marriage, sexual license, identity crises, expanded higher education, self-focus, and a lack “of strong social cues and supports” (p. 4).

They use the phrase “Emerging Adulthood” to refer to college-age and young adults. “In 2000, psychologist Jeffrey Arnett posited a new life stage – ’emerging adulthood’ – to describe the growing chasm between adolescence and the completion of traditional adult milestones” (p. 3). They summarize that “Emerging adults tend to be idealistic, energetic, and passionate about their pursuits … Part of our calling as mentors to young adults is to unleash some of this ‘potential energy’ into channels through which the kingdom can infiltrate church and world to the glory of God” (p. 5). The results of their research and experience lead them to believe that “emerging adulthood (is) a time of formidable challenge and yet great opportunity” (p. 5).

In this important resource the authors state that they “are prompted to ask two central questions. First, what does the gospel have to offer emerging adults as they are formed through the adult transition? Second, what do emerging adults shaped by the gospel have to offer to the church and the world?” (p. 6). They elaborate on this by summarizing the goal of the book, “We desire to provide a ‘practical theology’ for college and young adult ministry, one that combines important scholarship, a Christian theological vision, and attentiveness to concrete ministry applications” (p. 7). I think the book accomplishes this exceptionally well through its solid and helpful research as well as its compelling suggestions.

This is just the sort of book that many who work with “emerging adults” need and should read. The authors’ hopes here are that “[B]y providing descriptive, interpretive, normative, and pragmatic insights on these topics, we hope to better equip college and young adult ministers, professors, pastors, student development professionals, parents, and laypeople in their work among emerging adults in this formative life stage” (p. 7). I think the book really accomplishes this goal. I plan to have it outlined and consulted for future reference.

The book is well-conceived and well-ordered. It contains very informative, helpful, and insightful chapters on faith, spiritual formation, identity, church, vocation, morality, sexuality, relationships, and mentoring.