Building and Mobilizing Teams, by Marv Penner

A useful, practical introduction to the delights and challenges of building a team and the realities of leading a team. A small book with a lot to say.

Courageous Leadership, by Bill Hybels

This is not a new book but an essential book for every leader's bookshelf. it is useful to keep refering back to on topics such as vision casting, recruiting leaders and simply keeping going as a leader.

Speaking to Teenagers, by Doug Fields and Duffy Robbins

'How to think about, create, and deliver effective messages.' This book does exactly what it says on tin, Fields and Robbins write in an easy-to-read style and mix theology and practical teaching together to make this an important book for all those who work with young people.

Called, by Kary Oberbrunner

Mark Norris, leadership development adviser (vocations), reviews this book which sets out a picture of discipleship that is transformational and exciting.

This book helps the reader re-connect with the primary calling that God has on their life.

The Next Wave, by David Wraight

Andy Castle reviews this book written by the International President and CEO of Youth For Christ.

It is highly recommended for anyone who wants some fresh inspiration and wants to see young people fulfil their potential to change the world.

Thriving Youth Ministry in Smaller Churches, by Rick Chromey and Stephanie Caro

'Secrets for cultivating a dynamic youth ministry'. This book aims to encourage those who lead youth groups in 'small' churches, the majority of us!

Having grown up in a small villager church, Ruth Hassall read this book with interest to see what insights it could bring.

Sustainable Youth Ministry, by Mark DeVries

A review of a book which sets out to promote longevity and sustainability for both youth leaders and youth ministries. This is an invaluable contribution to the youth ministry field, for youth leaders and senior church leaders alike.

Uncut - a six-week course on life issues and the Christian faith

This is a great tool for connecting with young people who have no interest in the church and perhaps are from more difficult backgrounds or find themselves marginalised.

Great Tween Getaways, by Marcey Balcomb

This book is one of the few specifically written for leaders of 9-13s (The Tweens) and is a useful resource for anyone looking to take this age group away.

There's a recent article to read about how to plan a residential, as well as a podcast on the topic.

The Youth Ministry Survival Guide, by Len Kageler

The subtitle to this book is 'how to thrive and last for the long haul' and is written to inspire youth ministers to keep going in their ministry. This is vital if we are to see long-lasting change happen amongst the young people we are trying to reach.

Youth Pastor, by Houston Heflin

This is a useful book for all of us who are leaders of young people in whatever capacity: employed, part-time or volunteer.

Five Dysfunctions of a Team, by Patrick Lencioni

'This may not be the obvious choice of book for youth leaders to read but I think it's one of the best I've read on the subject of team and the principles can easily be applied to the youth ministry context.'

Mend the Gap, by Jason Gardner

A really helpful book on how the church can re-engage with young people and how the church needs to respond to the challenges of welcoming and accepting young people. A must read.

Ready to Lead, by Ruth Hassall

Ruth has written a great book for teenagers who are keen to grow in leadership gifting. Here's a review of the book by Jess Bishop from Warwickshire Association of Youth Clubs.

Growing Young Leaders, by Ruth Hassall

Mentoring young people is a vital part of developing them as leaders. Ruth wrote this book to help adults develop a mentoring scheme in their context and gives very helpful, practical advice. Read Dot Tyler's (Emerging Culture) review.