Book review of Chasing Dreams with God: A Middle Schoolers Roadmap to Success

by Russ Stiffler (Author)

Updated at: 25/02/2025

Middle school can be challenging, but what if you had a roadmap to success? "Chasing Dreams with God: A Middle Schooler's Roadmap to Success" by Russ Stiffler provides just that. This isn't your typical self-help book; it blends the principles of billionaire success with strong Christian values. Learn the mindset and habits of high-achievers, discover how faith strengthens your ambition, and engage with relatable stories and lessons. The book offers interactive exercises to help you apply these principles to your life, fostering empathy and understanding along the way. Plus, receive four free pop gospel songs to inspire your journey! Unlock your potential and chase your dreams with faith, fun, and freedom.

4.7 / 13 ratings

Review Chasing Dreams with God

"Chasing Dreams with God" resonated with me on so many levels. Initially, I picked it up intending to review it for my niece, a middle schooler, but I found myself completely engrossed. It's not just a children's book; it's a genuinely insightful and engaging read for anyone looking to cultivate a success mindset grounded in faith. The author, Russ Stiffler, masterfully blends practical advice on achieving goals with a strong, positive Christian message, creating a holistic approach to personal growth that felt surprisingly refreshing.

What struck me immediately was the accessibility of the material. Stiffler avoids overly simplistic language, instead opting for a clear, relatable style that speaks directly to young people without condescending. He successfully breaks down complex ideas – like the habits of successful people – into manageable steps and relatable anecdotes. He doesn't just tell you what to do; he shows you how to do it, using real-life examples and interactive exercises to make the lessons stick. The inclusion of journaling prompts and "Why" statement creation, for instance, is a clever way to encourage self-reflection and goal setting, turning the reading experience into an active, personal journey.

The integration of Christian values is another significant strength. It's not preachy or forced; instead, faith is woven organically into the narrative, providing a framework for understanding discipline, perseverance, and the importance of seeking divine guidance. This isn't about simply achieving material success; it's about aligning your ambitions with a higher purpose, a message that I believe is profoundly important for young people to internalize. The biblical wisdom seamlessly integrates with modern success stories, offering a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the human element of striving and the spiritual aspect of relying on faith.

The addition of the pop gospel songs is a brilliant touch, transforming the book from a passive reading experience into a more multi-sensory, memorable one. It's a creative way to reinforce the book's message and make it more engaging for the target audience. I can easily imagine the songs playing in the background while a young reader works through the exercises, reinforcing the positive and uplifting themes of the book.

While I initially purchased "Chasing Dreams with God" as a gift, I ended up gaining as much from it as my niece did. It's a book that inspires action, fostering a growth mindset and encouraging readers to actively pursue their goals with both passion and faith. It’s a thoughtful, well-structured, and ultimately uplifting read, making it a valuable addition to any young person's library – and quite honestly, a valuable resource for adults seeking similar inspiration. The positive, empowering message combined with the practical application makes this a truly remarkable book. I wholeheartedly recommend it.