Losers, Loners, and Rebels: The Spiritual Struggles of Boys (Paperback)

~ (Author), (Author), Donald Capps (Author)
Key Phrases: normotic person, boyhood loneliness, early adolescent boy, The Spiritual Quest of the Loser, Boy Code, Boy Scout (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Snakes and snails and puppy dog tails are not the only things of which little boys are made, according to seminary professors Dykstra, Cole and Capps. Each author draws upon his own autobiographical story in this important examination of the spirituality of boys. Boys' spiritual lives, according to the authors, are influenced much more by their negative experiences than by positive ones. These negative experiences are gathered under three archetypes: the loser, the rebel and the loner. Each of these experiences can give rise to spiritual virtues, in this case, self-awareness, self-transcendence and self-sufficiency. While the authors are not psychologists, they have done exhaustive research in this field, and their backgrounds in pastoral care and theology help convey an authentic and holistic approach to an underresearched topic. The practical application of this work, the authors posit, is to demonstrate that by connecting with one's boyhood one is better able to connect with one's own and other men's sons. Many men will find the book's insights and frank honesty enlightening. The authors use the word spirituality ambiguously at times, but this is a minor nuisance in an otherwise important work. (Aug.)
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Product Details

• Paperback: 216 pages
• Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press (August 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0664229611
• ISBN-13: 978-0664229610
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 2.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #681,540 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2.0 out of 5 stars Wanting more......., September 11, 2009

By	A. Na (New Castle, PA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

In this book, the introduction explained that each sub-topic- loner, loser and rebel has been identified with each of the three authors who collaborated on this book. It was interesting to read about each man's journey through boyhood, family and adolescence. As a parent and a minister (PC(USA)), I was hoping to read more profound conclusions from these three well trained scholars. I was disappointed with some of their insights and even mildly surprised at some of their mini-conclusions. That boys who are loners, losers or rebels at young ages may grow into spiritual beings was more or less the jacket cover summary. I was hoping for more meat once I read beyond the back of the book and I was disappointed.