#Stolen by Jessica Fralin

“We're the most connected generation in all of history,” Fralin writes. “We are also the loneliest.” (27)

How we handle social media matters. Social media is setting the standard, telling us what's acceptable and what's right and wrong. Is that what we want?

Fralin reminds us that when we reveal only what we want others to know, we can create a persona and social media, in effect, steals our real identity.

It's time to take back what social media has stolen. It's time to be who we really are. That means we must fight for our freedom.

Fralin reveals the lessons she has learned about social media. She explores our need to be loved and living in an “instant” culture. She reminds us of the fulfilling nature of face-to-face friendships, the support of community, and the joy if real life moments. Other topics include selfies, why words matter, what shouldn't be put on social media, and emotions.

She does not advocate abandoning social media altogether. She encourages us to learn to fight its false messages. She recognizes it has its uses, like connecting with people we do not see very often. Social media needs to have its proper place.

Fralin found her true identity, fulfilling love, and contentment in Jesus Christ, in a connection with God. She encourages us to do the same.

There are good discussion questions included in the book. This would be a good book to discuss in a teen group. In fact, I think that would be its best use. You can download a free six session Youth Group Leader Guide and other resources at http://www.abingdonpress.com/Stolen.

You can join the conversation at Twubs.com/IdentityRevolution.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Jessica Fralin in an author, blogger, and full-time college student residing in Lynchburg, Virginia. As a worship leader and aspiring women's ministry leader, she conveys the message of love, acceptance, and worth that can only be found in the gospel. You can find out more at http://jessicafralin.com/ and follow her on Twitter @JessicaFralin.

Abingdon Press, 208 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Litfuse for the purpose of an independent and honest review.