BOOK REVIEW: I'm No Angel

Kylie Bisutti's autobiography, I'm No Angel, offers both a fascinating look into the realities of the modeling world and a frank account of her struggle to own her Christianity in front of that world. When the conflicts between the two sides of her life became too great, she chose to walk away from everything she thought she had wanted in order to honor Christ. Now she serves as a model in a completely new way...a role model to girls who are given antibiblical messages every day about what it means to be a woman.

Born in a small town to a blue-collar family, Kylie grew up loved by and committed to her family. At fourteen, she began modeling in Las Vegas and was quickly swept into a culture that ruthlessly leapt to make her appear older and more worldly than she was comfortable with; however, she quenched whispers of conviction for what she thought was the greater good of fame and money. Finally, after marrying a godly man who prayed for her as she lived with one foot in two worlds, she made a decision that would change the direction of her life forever.

Kylie made a commitment to Christ at a youth group her freshman year in high school, the only place where she felt completely accepted for who she was rather than what she looked like. However, as the book advances, we journey with her on the long road between that beginning commitment and its completion several years later when, after reaching the top of the modeling industry as a Victoria's Secret Angel, she left it all "to become a Proverbs 31 wife."

I read this book in three days, which for a homeschooling mom with a full house of responsibilities is a big deal. Especially because I am involved with youth ministry at my church, I was eager to hear what she had to say to girls who are told they must be thin, underdressed and overly made up to have significance. I enjoyed the Bible verses that began every chapter with a perfect reflection of her transformation. The 30 day devotional at the end of the book offers young women an indepth look into their biblical identity.

I was blessed also by her willingness to be vulnerable with her failings so that the young girls who read this book will know she is "real." I commend her for her honesty and courage despite the blastings she has taken from the world for her decision to stand for Jesus and marriage. I highly recommend this book, and encourage all who read it to pray for Kylie and the work God has planned for her testimony.

To see a short video of  Kylie discussing her story, go here.