Take Your Best Shot

In Take Your Best Shot, Austin Gutwein recounts his journey from sitting in his living room to founding Hoops for Hope, an organization providing AIDS relief in Africa. As a nine-year old Austin saw a video about the poverty and struggles children face every day. He knew he had to take action.
Austin began raising money by shooting free throws which has turned into an international effort to help orphans. Hundreds of kids now join with Austin to help people around the world.
I particularly like the way Austin encourages everyone to do great things that help others. No matter how big or small, every person can make a difference. That is the key point he makes throughout the book.
I also think the format of the book is wonderful for reflection and planning. Gutwein provides thought provoking questions and space to write answers at the end of every chapter. These questions are not just about making plans to help others, but they also help the reader reflect on his or her relationship with God.
Ultimately, Austin shows how he felt a call from God to do more for others. Then, he shares how God calls all of us to do more with our lives. Everyone who reads Take Your Best Shot will be challenged to find ways to serve others.