The Diaries of a Teenage Pilgrim

The Early Journey: A Coming-of-Age Story of How God Called Me to Run After Him

"Honest, heartfelt, and spiritually rich, The Diaries of a Teenage Pilgrim is a powerful coming-of-age memoir that invites readers into one girl's cross-cultural journey of faith, identity, and divine calling—perfect for anyone seeking purpose in the unexpected paths God carves." – NewInBooks.com

Thirteen-year-old Lydia’s world is turned upside down when her father announces their family is moving from Wisconsin to Israel in just forty days. From the familiar woods of Wisconsin to the ancient hills of Galilee, and later the Missouri Ozarks, Lydia faces a life of extraordinary adventure, unexpected challenges, and spiritual awakening.

Through diary entries that are candid, raw, and full of heart, Lydia navigates the shock of new schools and cultures, ice rinks and speed skating arenas under rockets, false accusations, heartbreak, and even life-changing accidents. Along the way, she discovers her identity, her gifts, and a calling that stretches far beyond what she ever imagined.

Why We Love It:

• Authentic Teen Memoir: Diary-style storytelling that pulls readers into Lydia’s real-life adventures and emotional journey.
• Faith and Identity: Explores the twists, turns, and challenges of discovering God’s calling as a teenager.
• Cross-Cultural Adventure: Travel from Wisconsin to Israel and the Ozarks, experiencing faith and life in radically different worlds.
• Inspiring and Relatable: Encourages teens to embrace God’s plan for them—even when it’s unexpected or difficult.

Perfect for:

• Teens and young adults seeking honest, faith-filled coming-of-age stories
• Readers drawn to adventure, sports, and real-life cross-cultural experiences
• Families, youth groups, and teen devotionals looking for relatable spiritual inspiration

Lydia’s journey proves that God can take the most unexpected paths—and the most ordinary teenagers—and shape them into extraordinary stories of faith, courage, and purpose.