I have been reading and reviewing Christian books for around six years, but they all existed on an old and now deleted blog. Being cautious, I kept all of the reviews, and I intend on releasing two per month, which will mean a new review won’t appear for some time, unless the book is freshly minted or the world needs my opinion sharpish.
And so, onto the first review.
Here is stolen blurb from anywhere that sells the book :
We don’t usually identify with the author of a great story. Instead we bond with the hero and heroine-the ones that the story is about . We share in their heartaches and triumphs. We cheer their accomplishments and mourn their losses. When we think about our own story, we may see God as the author-an omniscient and omnipotent cosmic mastermind-but fail to recognize Him as the central character. In Epic, a retelling of the gospel in four acts, John Eldredge invites us to revisit the drama of life, viewing God not only as the author but also as the lead actor, exploring His motives and His heart. Eldredge examines the power of story, the universal longing for a “plot” that makes sense deep inside us, our desire for a meaningful role to play, our love of books and movies, and how all of this points us to the gospel itself. It’s a story better than any fairy tale! Our human hearts are made for great drama, and the gospel, with its tragedy and grandeur, truly is epic.
My thoughts :
I read this book very quickly, not because I was in a hurry, but because it flowed really easily, and because it is thin (104 pages). It picks you up and carries you along with pivotal moments from famous movies, linking each man-made story to the larger story we are living. Whether you are a believer in God or not, this book will make you ponder life – your life – and you will want to ask if there really is a bigger story, and if there is, what part do I play? I found it thought provoking, but also reassuring that there is a purpose and plan, that life isn’t just a random happening with chance meetings and coincidences. I will definitely read it again, and again etc, because it was so light yet so deep.
First | Last sentence :
“It’s been quite a journey for Frodo and Sam when the little gardener wonders this.” | “May you play your part well.”
In a nutshell :
Perfect for the commute, very easy to read, it will make you think and it may even change your life.
Score :
5/5
Website :
www.EpicReality.com
Bill
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Header photo credit:
Annie Spratt
