This new publication is unlike any book I have ever read! Girl Time: Conversations on Godly Character by Deb Schroeder is part devotional and Bible study guide, part discussion starter, and part leader’s guide. It is an all-important title for the faith of women in our broken world.

The first half comprises 12 short devotions written by Schroeder, followed by teen-written shorter comments on the topics Schroeder addresses. Topics range from putting up with difficult people to avoiding slander and gossip to fighting the world’s idea of beauty. I especially appreciate the book’s ability to address making difficult decisions as a parent while also addressing obeying those decisions as a teenager. Each short devotional includes Scripture passages to look up, discussion questions to think about, a prayer to say, and room to take notes and reflect on what you learned or found important to remember.

The second half has three separate leader guides should you want to use the devotions for a mother and daughter to study together, a girls’ getaway with family members, or even a mother-daughter retreat at your church. This book inspires women from ages 13 to 113 to dig deeper into God’s Word and do it together with friends, daughters, and any sisters in the faith.

Schroeder’s writing is down-to-earth with personal examples that bring her lessons to life. The format allows for many iterations of study; there are even some recipes included to give you an idea of what to serve when digging in with your gal pals.

Be careful when starting this title. You just may end up creating a new study for women at your church!

A look at books published by Northwestern Publishing House. For more information, visit nph.net or call 800-662-6022.

Author: Jenni Heins
Volume 112, Number 08
Issue: August 2025