I Kissed Dating Goodbye: A New Attitude Toward Relationships and Romance : Book Review

"I Kissed Dating Goodbye" is a controversial book written by Joshua Harris that challenges the traditional dating culture. Harris discusses the issues he sees in modern dating and proposes a courtship model as an alternative, urging young people to pursue romantic relationships with a focus on marriage and commitment.

Harris begins by sharing his personal journey and his decision to step away from the dating scene. He criticizes the casual and shallow nature of dating, suggesting that it often leads to heartbreak and emotional damage. Instead, he promotes a more intentional and purposeful approach to relationships, emphasizing the importance of friendship and getting to know someone before pursuing a romantic connection.

Throughout the book, Harris provides practical advice and guidelines for those interested in adopting his courtship model. He explores topics such as purity and emotional boundaries and encourages readers to involve their parents and mentors in their dating decisions. He also addresses the misconceptions and misunderstandings that can arise from his teachings, clarifying his intentions and sharing stories from others who have embraced his ideas.

While "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" has gained a significant following, it has also faced substantial criticism. Many argue that Harris' approach is too rigid and restrictive, potentially leading to unhealthy perspectives on relationships and sexuality. Some feel that Harris places too much emphasis on marriage and commitment, neglecting the importance of personal growth and individual choice.

Overall, "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" presents a thought-provoking perspective on dating and relationships. While it may not resonate with everyone, it encourages readers to reevaluate their own beliefs and values regarding romance and consider a more intentional approach to finding love.

What are readers saying?

"I Kissed Dating Goodbye" by Joshua Harris has generated a lot of debate and discussion among readers. The reviews for this book vary greatly, with some applauding it for its insightful viewpoints, while others strongly criticize it for promoting restrictive and detrimental ideas about dating.

Many positive reviews highlight how thought-provoking and challenging the book is. Readers appreciate Harris's unique perspective on dating and relationships, finding it refreshing. They value the book's message of seeking God's will in romantic relationships and focusing on purity and emotional well-being.

However, there are also a significant number of negative reviews that scorn the book for its extreme views on dating. Critics argue that it promotes an inflexible and unrealistic approach to relationships, placing unnecessary pressure and guilt on young people. They believe the book's emphasis on courtship and rejection of casual dating oversimplifies the complexities of real-life relationships.

Another common criticism of the book is its lack of inclusivity, particularly concerning non-heterosexual relationships. Some reviewers argue that the book fails to adequately address and support individuals who are not straight, relying heavily on traditional gender roles and expectations.

Furthermore, many readers express disappointment with the author retracting his support for the book's teachings. Harris publicly stated that he no longer endorsed the ideas presented in "I Kissed Dating Goodbye." This change in stance left some readers feeling misled or betrayed, as they had earnestly embraced the book's teachings.

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