Few Christian figures of the 20th century have stood out as much Dietrich Bonhoeffer. If sainthood was awarded in Protestant circles, it would be safe to assume that he would be towards the top of the list at receiving such an honor. Much as been written and said about Bonhoeffer in addition to his own works being published and read by the masses. With terms like costly and cheap grace, discipleship and intentional living all being connected to his legacy.


I was recently given a pre-copy of Andy Root’s latest book ‘Bonhoeffer as Youth Worker‘ and along with a number of other youth workers asked to review it. As one who has not read much of Bonhoeffer’s biography, instead only having read most of his works contained in ‘A Testament to Freedom‘, I looked forward to seeing how Root would unpack Bonhoeffer’s life in affirmation of his thesis.

In typical Root fashion, he writes in a very accessible and provocative manner showing Bonhoeffer as an early proponent of the ‘theological turn in youth ministry’ movement – as shown in specific story from Bonhoeffer’s life in the chapter ‘Tears for Mr. Wolf’. I appreciated how Root worked through Bonhoeffer’s life to affirm this, while acknowledging his own influences and bias’ in interpreting at appropriate points throughout. Half way through, I realized I had initially hoped for a very practical connection for ministry would have been made. Though Root teases out some implications for modern youth workers, this is more of an invitation to then wrestle through Bonhoeffer’s example for applications in particular contexts.

My only frustration with the book came at the very end, where Root seems to simply stop writing without much of a transition or conclusion. Though his point was made very well throughout, the abrupt ending left me wondering if some thing was missing as I was left hanging waiting for more. I was able to confirm with the final copy that the pre-copies were not missing a conclusion or any addition chapters.

With all of that said, this book is worth the read for anyone interested in Bonhoeffer and all who are involved in ministry as whole – regardless if they would be categorized as a ‘youth worker’. My hope after reading is that this book could be the first in a series where Root then dives fully into a commentary on ‘Life Together’ and ‘Discipleship’ that is only briefly unpacked in the final two chapters.