Calvin Miller, the well-known pastor and author, has written this book to help young men starting out on their pastoral ministry. It consists of 35 letters covering a wide variety of subjects but directed solely to the American evangelical church scene. Do not expect to find a great deal of scripture quoted and do not expect to find theological precision. It is not that kind of book. Mr. Miller never hides the difficulties of the ministry. He keeps coming back to the fact that in America within 20 years of starting 80% of pastors have left the ministry. He wisely warns against looking to the mega churches as models for church growth and frankly discusses the sexual temptations a pastor will face. Mr Miller is candid in revealing his own mistakes and is also honest in saying that some problems just don’t go away. In fact, this is the strength of this book. However many will struggle with Mr. Miller’s offbeat and humorous style. Quite often Mr Miller steps over the line in his effort to write in a down to earth way. Sometimes it is not clear whether he is serious in the advice he is giving. I found his negative attitude to difficult church officers and meetings unedifying. However there is some wise advice hidden away in these letters. In spite of its imperfections I found the book fascinating to read and took away some helpful lessons.