[.uk] The Catechist's Toolbox: How to Thrive As a Religion ... (ISBN 0829424512)

Book Description:
Each year, roughly one-third of the more than five hundred thousand volunteer catechists in Catholic parishes are new to the job; they come with little formal training for their work and are essentially students themselves, quickly needing to learn how to prepare a lesson, lead a discussion, supervise children, apply discipline, and help kids grow in their faith. The Catechist's Toolbox by Joe Paprocki is an invaluable collection of techniques, tips, methodologies, and advice for all catechists who must learn on the job. Paprocki shares the wisdom he has gleaned in two decades as a catechist, high school teacher, and religious educator. Employing the metaphor of a homeowner's toolbox, Paprocki explains how a catechist is like a do-it-yourself builder who needs the right collection of tools to do the job; throughout the book, Paprocki explains what the tools are, what they can do, and how to use them skillfully and effectively. The Catechist's Toolbox will help first-time catechists feel at home in their new role and will empower catechists at all levels of experience to thrive as educators of the faith.

Pretty basic info, nothing too special:
I had high hopes for this book, put out by Loyola Press (which has come out with some really amazing resources in the past couple years), but was a bit disappointed with this book's overly simplified techniques and broad statements that lacked a practical punch. While some of the information was good, I think its fair to say that its just organized common sense. I was looking for some practical ideas of how to present religious education topics in a creative and effective manner, and instead got a lot of lists of possible art projects (with no explanation) and generalizations. Rather than being a toolbox to help tighten a leaky faucet of catechetical problems, this book tends to just give you the number of the plumber and leave the rest up to you.

Superb Catechist Guide:
If you are a Catechist this is a must - best detailed guide how how to plan and conduct a class. Drawing on experience and talent, Joe provides many invaluable tips, hints, and suggestions. He will make you a better catechist. You will use this book everyday and find yourself carrying it with you as your most valuable reference.

Fantastic resource!:
I read this book over my vacation and plan on purchasing it for all my catechists. It's invaluable. I can't wait to read Joe's new book A Well Built Faith