Hewitt is thought-provoking and uncompromising. My two main take-aways: the list of history books, and the reminder that I am not ambitious. ( )

A how-to for Christians who want to influence the secular world, covering basics, from make sure you go to a top-ranking college, to internships, to how to treat colleagues. Somewhat useful, I suppose, but very common sensical. Although, I do appreciate a recommended reading list for general history of Western civilization. ( )

Hewitt is an excellent writer and an intelligent person. I first picked up this book a few years ago, based on the title, but didn’t actually get around to reading it until now (2008). I teach at a university and thought that Hewitt would have some excellent advice for people just starting their career – and he does. Some of the chapter names that were standouts for me include:

• Master at least one are of at least passing interest to powerful people
• Fill the gratitude gap
• Choose the people you will work for
• Know what you don’t know
• Tatoos: Don’t
• A message about Visa/MasterCard: Don’t
• Assemble the right credentials
• Find interesting people
• Choose a church and joing it – Genuinely
• Keep only the important stuff: Clutter is an anchor on ambition
• Be slow to be offended

After reviewing those chapter titles, you might wonder why this book only earned three stars in my review. Hewitt makes one big assumption about his readers: that they are Christian (no problem with that; it is clear in the title) and that they are politically conservative. He writes as if the only way to truly be a follower of Christ would be if you held Hewitt’s same political views.

This book was published in 2003 and does provide a unique before and after glimpse into how those who call themselves Christian viewed Bush’s policies and how that is now (2008) starting to evolve. Hewitt doesn’t provide the after perspective, but a read of today’s headlines will show that many object to the Bush administration’s past and present decisions.

If you are Christian and hold a conservative political view, this book will likely meet your needs. However, I think we should read books that also stretch our perspectives and would recommend you also pick up God’s Politics by Wallis at the same time you check this one out. Those who hold a more liberal political view can find some great nuggets of advice, but might need to start by reading his chapter on being slow to be offended before perusing the book in its entirety. ( )

Excellent book which calls for Christians to do all they can to reach their potential and mazximize their influence ( )