Religion Books

I just finished reading My name is Russell Fink and I have to tell you this is one of the more bizarre novels I have read this year and Micheal Snyder has to be an amazingly interesting person to have written such a fun novel his first time out. I found this book refreshing and fun. The novel is packed with quirky characters and crazy twist. It is a little edgy at times for the Christian market but I truly enjoyed this Lad Lit and eagerly look forward for more wacky tales from this new author.

For a real treat be sure to read the Q&A with Micheal Snyder and the deleated scenes in the bonus section of the book.

Michael Snyder's novel "My Name Is Russell Fink" is an eclectic mix of humor, mystery, pop-culture, suspense and God - not necessarily in that order. Russell Fink is a rather inept, but incredibly artistic, salesman and practiced hypochondriac with a really obnoxious girlfriend who refuses to let Russell break up with her, a crazy family and a completely wonderful, and supposedly clairvoyant, dog! When Sonny, his dog, is murdered, Russell must find Sonny's killer.

This incredibly witty novel is "The Office" meets Rene Gutteridge. I love the details put into this publication: from the rave reviews for the novel on the back cover written by several of the characters, to the page flip cartoon in the lower right corner of the text. The sense of humor of those responsible for putting this book together is evident - literally - from cover to cover. I am also a sucker for discussion questions, and these are incredibly fun. They almost make me want to start a discussion group!

I really enjoyed the book. It is rare to find a book in the "Christian" genre that doesn't have an agenda, other than to be entertaining. I was so happy to read a very funny, witty, sarcastic book about a truly squirly guy. If there was an agenda, it might have been to show that life is messy, but they Gospel is real. But it did so in a non-preachy way, that just seemed a little quirky like Northern Exposure or Pushing Daisies. Infinitely better than that silly little book on Amazon's top 10 - "The Shack"... You won't leave this book needing a detox.

In an interview the author stated: "What interests me most is what's happening around us right now, the wealth of humanity and unique predicaments in the house across the street. Almost anyone you meet is all at once funny, interesting, unique, and filled with love and fear and hate and peculiar notions about how life is supposed to work." This is exactly what he writes. This book is a humorous, contemporary not-quite mystery with a romantic thread, faith veins and lots of ... neurotica. The result is touching and hysterical.

This debut novel details about five weeks in the life of Russell Fink. He's a broke hypochondriac, who may or may not have cancerous moles, stuck in a job he hates and still living with his parents, whom he doesn't trust. During the course of the book he investigates the murder of his dog, gets kicked out of parents' house, tries not to get fired (without actually doing any work), discovers he's in love with someone who isn't his fiancé (a wanna-be actress) and somehow stumbles upon faith.

The character development is fantastic, some of the best I've read. At first I felt the story was just about a lovable loser, but it's much more than that. It's hysterically funny and touching. These kooky characters, simultaneously wild and believable, brought me to embarrassing out-loud laughter and even tears.

And if that's not enough, you'll find a cool flip-book at the bottom of the pages. Nothing like watching a cartoon dog run to make you love a book.

I use a different star rating system then Amazon does. To me 5 stars is life changing (except on no-book items, da). I rarely give five stars. Great Christian Fiction should be well written, have a good storyline but most of all have a message that is spiritually challenging. "My Name is Russell Fink" fits all three categories.

At first I thought this book was going nowhere, not much of a plot and frankly not my kind of story, although it was very funny, cleverly sarcastic and very well written. After a while though I was hooked and found myself being drawn to the characters in a way that's rare in books today. Matched only by W. Dale Cramer. Michael Snyder has a great gift for creating real human thought from pen and paper. The story became more interesting and compelling about half way through after Sonny departed (not a spoiler, it's in the book description). Although not theologically heavy by any standards there are many lessons to be learned and would be an excellent story for a book club to read and discuss. It begs the question: Where does my trust in Christ come from...Man or God? It's also a great book to give someone who doesn't believe. I laughed, I choked up and I was moved. I'll be reading his next book for sure. Highly Recommended.


1 Star = Pathetic
2 Stars = Fair
3 Stars = Good
4 Stars = Excellent
5 Stars = Life changing

Although I grew up in a predominantly Catholic area (southwest Louisiana), I was raised Baptist and often felt that Catholics were odd or completely wrong in their belief system. As I grew older, I began to investigate different faiths in order to find the one I belonged to. In the end, though, I was called home to the Catholic Church and came into full communion with it in 2000. Naturally, I began to receive a ton of questions, answers, attacks and misinformation from multiple Protestant sources, including some who were friends or family. I began to research my newfound faith with much zeal in order to defend it properly. As the years passed, my family and friends (the ones that hadn't given up on me) grew to accept me as a Catholic. Still, I often run into questions from them that I can't immediately answer. Thanks to the New Catholic Answer Bible, I now have a ready resource to reply to them with.

Containing the New American translation of the Catholic Bible, this answer Bible offers brief sections every few pages that explains certain Catholic beliefs with Biblical references. The beliefs range from the papacy to baptism and everything in between.

Solid Biblical references are the only true defense of the faith when talking to Protestants in my opinion, especially since the majority of them rely on no other source for their own beliefs. Referring to Catholic Tradition or the catechism usually doesn't work. Luckily, this book provides proof that can be found in the books of the Protestant Bible as well as the Catholic one.

If you're just beginning to study the Catholic faith, the New Catholic Answer Bible is an excellent, quick and handy resource. I also recommend books by apologists such as Scott Hahn, Karl Keating and Patrick Madrid as well as the wonderful "Why Do Catholics Do That?" by Kevin Orlin Johnson.

This Bible contains a lot of information about the history of the Bible that I believe a lot of people don't know. It also contains helpful, relevant information & comprehensive answers to questions asked about Church doctrine.

This book should be mandatory reading in all catholic schools. Knowing your religion well is the only way to offset advances by bible toting, catholic bashing hipocrates. When approached by these people, hand then this book to read. We may get a few converts of our own.

An excellent study Bible for Catholics and all who are interested in summaries of Catholic teachings. The entire New American Bible is presented and about every sixty pages a section of questions and Catholic answers is given. With these questions and answers, specific scriptural references are given that can easily be refered to.

I purchased the New Catholic Answer Bible to seek answers to many of the tenets of the Catholic faith. This Bible has greatly exceeded my expectations. It is so well organized that I can read the passages of the Bible and then quickly go on to the explanatory notes with ease. This Bible not only provides what I needed regarding the words of the Bible itself, but is like getting a history lesson as well. I read it every day, and I couldn't be more pleased. I heartily recommend it.

Is it ever a wonder that Max Lucado is truly anointed by the Lord to touch your heart? In 'No Wonder They Call Him the Savior: Chronicles from the Cross', Lucado gets to the heart of the matter. Even to his Irish friend, Ian who had been there and done that. Tired of religion and theology. When everything else seems empty. What really mattered? He wanted treasure. The answer: The Cross.

As it is written, from Paul in I Corithians, chapter 15.

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures....

From the Cross comes Words spoken in the Lord's final acts. The words come from Luke, chapter 23. He spoke to all of us through time. He saw each one of us. From His suffering, His pain and His shame to our sickness, our sin and our doubt. His cry, "Father, forgive them." [Luke 23:34] was enough. To all the Bernhard Goetz's who lash out in anger for injustice. There is justice. To the criminal who died on the Cross next to the Savior there is hope. For those finding a way out there is pardon and forgiveness. To the solider or missionary who leaves loved ones behind. For Love is built NOT on passion and romance but on mission and sacrifice. That eternity is closer than any Good-bye, but in reality 'see you soon.' To all the Judith Bucknell's who cry in loneliness. He reached out from the Cross to your lonely heart. It was Jesus in his hour of abandonment, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' [Matthew 27:46]. When no one else loves you. He is going to love you. He always has. He was fulfilling prophecy. When you're tired and thrist. He knows that, too. God became flesh and dwelt with us to know everything we have ever done with compassion He carried it with Him to the Cross.

The witnesses who were there and saw the miracle of salvation. Even those who ran away. There was a great price paid. He sacrified His life. We all know what had happened that day. The message is in our tears. No education, maturity or religion can separate us from His passion. From the Cross' wisdom comes the open arms of undying Love and a place to come home to. Only that wisdom lies NOT as men sees it, but in Faith in the Power of God. The evidence in an empty tomb. So what does really matter to you? I'd say a living God in the flesh, making the most important decision in your life, to spread the news 'in an information age, NOT regeneration.' In Jesus' words, 'Will you tell them?' 'Will you tell them I came back and that I'm coming back again.' Will you?

NOTE: Contains a Study Guide at the end for each chapter for further study plus added notes. To Max, May God continually Bless you as you Bless us with your gift. In the Love of Jesus.

Anything Max Lucado write is an understanding of the Bible that helps a person to find it easily understandable. He makes it easy for people to read and under Jesus a lot better and plus his bible study at the end of the book makes it easier to share the knowledge with a friend

Is it ever a wonder that Max Lucado is truly anointed by the Lord to touch your heart? In 'No Wonder They Call Him the Savior: Chronicles from the Cross', Lucado gets to the heart of the matter. Even to his Irish friend, Ian who had been there and done that. Tired of religion and theology. When everything else seems empty. What really mattered? He wanted treasure. The answer: The Cross.

As it is written, from Paul in I Corithians, chapter 15.

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures....

From the Cross comes Words spoken in the Lord's final acts. The words come from Luke, chapter 23. He spoke to all of us through time. He saw each one of us. From His suffering, His pain and His shame to our sickness, our sin and our doubt. His cry, "Father, forgive them." [Luke 23:34] was enough. To all the Bernhard Goetz's who lash out in anger for injustice. There is justice. To the criminal who died on the Cross next to the Savior there is hope. For those finding a way out there is pardon and forgiveness. To the solider or missionary who leaves loved ones behind. For Love is built NOT on passion and romance but on mission and sacrifice. That eternity is closer than any Good-bye, but in reality 'see you soon.' To all the Judith Bucknell's who cry in loneliness. He reached out from the Cross to your lonely heart. It was Jesus in his hour of abandonment, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' [Matthew 27:46]. When no one else loves you. He is going to love you. He always has. He was fulfilling prophecy. When you're tired and thrist. He knows that, too. God became flesh and dwelt with us to know everything we have ever done with compassion He carried it with Him to the Cross.

The witnesses who were there and saw the miracle of salvation. Even those who ran away. There was a great price paid. He sacrified His life. We all know what had happened that day. The message is in our tears. No education, maturity or religion can separate us from His passion. From the Cross' wisdom comes the open arms of undying Love and a place to come home to. Only that wisdom lies NOT as men sees it, but in Faith in the Power of God. The evidence in an empty tomb. So what does really matter to you? I'd say a living God in the flesh, making the most important decision in your life, to spread the news 'in an information age, NOT regeneration.' In Jesus' words, 'Will you tell them?' 'Will you tell them I came back and that I'm coming back again.' Will you?

NOTE: Contains a Study Guide at the end for each chapter for further study plus added notes. To Max, May God continually Bless you as you Bless us with your gift. In the Love of Jesus.

"Any serious study of the Christian claim is, at its essence, a study of the cross. To accept or reject Christ without careful examination of Calvary is like deciding on a car without looking at the engine."

As "pain pervades the dusty planet," we can at times wonder how our suffering can better us as human beings. We feel alone roaming down here while God seems far above, safe in his heavenly paradise.

This is where Jesus Christ appears. In his suffering, we can see God at his most human. When the consistency of life IS inconsistency, there is someone who understands.

Jesus died for people instead of taking revenge. He didn't retaliate even when he was facing death. He takes our sin on his shoulders and becomes the "death slayer."

Max Lucado is really writing to people who have broken hearts and who can find a lonely person simply by looking in the mirror. The land of promise is for those who endure the pain and suffering and are reborn.

I loved the story he tells about the puppy and how he explains guilt and forgiveness. He brings a human element to spiritual concepts. He also explains how we can't get rid of guilt ourselves, we really do need a savior.

A beautiful look at Christ, the Cross and why we need God.

~The Rebecca Review

Max Lucado has done a marvelous thing by blessing humanity with his portrayal of the Cross of Jesus Christ. In his own unique style of writing, the author takes you on a vivid journey of discovery as you see the Cross, and the characters who "surround" it, from a new light. Max Lucado has such a powerful ability to express himself in words. Tears filled my eyes as I was touched, transformed, and impacted by my Saviour through this book. You will be truly blessed!

The Rules of Engagement is a series of books that deal with Spiritual Warfare. The first series teaches you how to pray strategically. While Volume 2 & 3 expose the enemy you are fighting. Since using the Rules Of Engagement as a guidline to prayer I have seen so many things turn in my favor. Thank God for Dr. Trimm for being so free to share the tools we need to be successful in spiritual warfare. This book is a must have to anyone that is a Watchman, Intercessor, Pastors, Teachers. You will fill your spirit man rise with Authority and you will begin to walk in that Authority! Dr. Trimm thanks again for the knowledge and exposing truth that most run from!

My mom bought this along with the other two books in the series but i love this one. it really hits the nail on the head. seriously, if i have a certain dream i pick this up and go straight into spiritual warfare. i like this because it taught me how to pray. because there were times when i didnt have the book but i remembered exactly how Cindy Trimm prayed in the book and i would create my own prayer along those lines. thank you again Dr. Cindy Trimm

The Rules of Engagement: The Art of Strategic Prayer And Spiritual Warfare
This book is a must have for any prayer worrior, intercessor, & armorbearer. Please understand that this book is for every believer, however for those who are responsible to pray for others- you need this book to pray effectively while praying fervently. Excellent teaching tool!
If you are interested in not having to battle constantly against the same demons, because you've been praying amiss- get this book!

This prayer has blessed my life tremendously. Sometime we don't know what to pray, what curses to break or what sins need to be forgiven. This prayer covers all bases. It allows an individual to take authority over the spiritual battles in order to see a physical manifestation in their life.

This book by Dr. Trimm has been very useful in facilitating a level of unity among women who come together in the Virgin Islands to pray for our families, churches and nations.

It is evident that Robin Jones Gunn is use to writing for adolescents. This book is a small step up toward storytelling for adults. For the first half of the story mysterious innuendoes are substituted for intrigue, it lacks believability and the characters are ill-defined and inconsistent. Then, it seems that Robin's gift for bringing the reader into the world of the characters begins to surface and her ability to bring her characters to life emerges. Before book's end, I was ready to read the second in the series. I was and am a huge Robin Jones Gunn fan.

Robin Jones Gunn is such a talented writer! She takes you to places you've dreamed of going and after reading you feel like you have been there. Every chacter experiences feelings that almost every woman can relate to. She is my favorite christian fiction writer. I hope she continues writing. I love the whole Glenbrooke Series. The series takes you to Hawaii, TN, CA, OR, WA....but each one is linked to Glenbrooke...a town you kind of wish you could visit or even live there...of course its seems like you do when you are reading the series. I just finished book 7 of the 8. I almost hate to finish the last one....I want there to be a number 9 and continue on. The Glenbrooke series has romance and friendships that intertwine in each book. Gardinias for Breakfast is awesome too as well as the Sisterchicks books.

Want a book that holds your interest? I recommend this entire series. I discovered Gunn on accident; really it was a blessing! I liked this entire series. Good wholesome values and interesting plots that intertwine with the other books.

I love Mrs. Gunns books. hen I found this one I was really happy. I loved the story. I cant wait to read the reas of the series.

After a spontanious idea of picking up this random book at the library, I sat in my mother's car heading to an out-of-city thanksgiving dinner. Stationed in the back of the car, the overhead light provided the ability to read on this adventure. At 5 o'clock, I picked up this book called Secrets. I began the cutest love story. Meet Jessica, a single, stranger to the town of Glenbrooke, Oregon. She ends up in a wreck right outside the town. She is rescued by handsome volunteer fire-fighter Kyle Buchanan. After series of events, she finds herself wrapped up in her new school as a High School English Teacher. When Kyle comes to falling head over heels with her, she turns him away and is criticized of her assumed relationship with him by a jealous principal, Charlotte. They end up on a mission trip together in Mexico and she finds her way back to Christ. After her truck breaking down, she is robbed without the robbers knowing she's in the car, hiding in the floorboard. When Kyle finds her, all her emotions let loose and she ends up spilling almost the whole story that has been hidden since she left California to Glennbrooke. All she had been hiding, gone in a matter of minutes. They fall in love, and of course, almost every novel ends with: The promise of an upcoming wedding. But, don't worry, the ending will either have you in tears, or reliving your own love story.
So, five stars Mrs. Gunn! Your masterpiece is a keeper.

Reviewed by Melissa LaMunyon for RebeccasReads (6/08)

Christian George's provocative title and the stylish cover of his latest book, "Sex, Sushi and Salvation" is a perfect example of the new movement in the Christian faith. Young Christians of all creeds and from every part of the country are seeking far more from their faith and their churches: more depth, more philosophy, more intimacy and more practicality. Apparently, theology and spiritual thought are not just for pastors anymore.

Reflecting on his childhood, mission work, the courtship of his wife, Rebecca, and his world travels, George draws a multicolored, many hued picture of his life experiences for the reader. Using an intense, poetic and descriptive style, George takes the reader on a rambling journey through his life as he demonstrates the universal human needs of intimacy, community and hope for eternal life through the eyes of his faith. Combined within the stories from his life, George waxes theological; drawing on many scriptural passages until he gradually intertwines the bite-sized chapters together at the end.

I appreciated George's fresh and frank approach to this book and to life. A few of the stories stood out to me in particular; one was an encounter with a young Russian girl during a mission trip. When George gently refuses the teenage girl's offer of sex (not without pause, he admits) he finds out that he is the first man who has ever turned this young girl away. After a brief period of awkwardness, the two are able to have real conversations about life and God.

George has a passion for pilgrimages and a thorough knowledge of Christian history. During one of the vignettes, George describes his exploration of the country side around a European monastery and musing over the early monastic life; what it would mean to completely have the focus of ones life being in the pursuit of knowing God. Using his vivid style, George tries to imagine what it would be like to live in one of the caves around the monastery during all kinds of weather and without any modern conveniences. These kind of rambling stories make up the bulk of "Sex, Sushi and Salvation."

My only issue with the book was the occasional over use of descriptive language. While George's style is certainly unique and appealing, it felt as though he was trying too hard to be clever, and a little shocking, in the first few chapters. Another important note; this is directed towards those of the Christian faith. Seekers or spiritualists would be better off looking elsewhere for reading material. Christians, however, of all walks will enjoy this book, and George's fresh approach to theological writing is surely to be well received.

George provides a thick Christianity for a watered down culture. As a prophet, he boldly states what the Bible demands of people. Many times, this seems to take you by surprise forcing you to examine your own life and admit your own shortcomings before you even realize you are agreeing with him. Throughout the book, George's abilities as a wordsmith created memorable quotes that cemented his ideas in my mind. I would recommend this book to everyone, regardless of age or spiritual maturity.

Christian George is a theologian disguised as a story teller. His writing is colorful and vivid, and each vignette contributes to a timeless picture of God for a new generation.

Parents and grandparents, take note. Christian George's book is not JUST
for the younger generation. It is a wonderfully honest book that is full of insights about God and how he is working in the life of an incredible
young man. I could not put it down, and I have shocked my grandchildren
and nephews by giving them a book with "sex" in the title.This is a great gift for birthdays and upcoming graduations, and you will learn a thing or two yourself. I expect to hear great things from this very "real" writer with such compelling writing skills.

This book tackles the tough questions and comes face to face with life's real issues. It leaves no room for fluffy, hollow theology. Where does our deepest pain and our deepest need meet the truth's of Christ and the promises of God? The Author dives in deep, leaving all false sense of security and Christian one-liners behind to make the real connections between the confusing, painful, poverty-stricken lives we live with the risen, redemptive and glorious life of the Savior. In a unique mix of poetic and yet common-place language we find ourselves following Jesus through the twists and turns of a life that in my mind, reflects the beautiful dance that God has orchestrated for the display of His glorious splendor.

This book is extremely well written and I would highly recommend it. As a former Jehovah's Witness, I was able to identify with so much of the story - not the sexual abuse (although I learned of some sexual abuse that occurred and was covered up by the elders) but I have seen so many mothers who were like the author's mother. One of the reasons I first began to question the Watchtower religion was because of the way the children were treated - or mis-treated would be a better description. Kids spanked who were noisy during the lengthy adult services, pinched when they fell asleep at late night meetings on school nights, etc. etc. But that is mild compared to what the author endured. I enjoyed this book very much.

This book was a bit like therapy. It was helpfull to hear a story so much like my own. She is a powerful writer, and honestly portrays what can go wrong in the JW cult.

Joy's memoir is a stark reminder that abuse in all of its various forms is devastating to individuals and relationships. Because it is her story and she was raised by parents who were Jehovah's Witnesses, it includes much of that lifestyle, religious doctrine, and terminology. Joy does a fair job at explaining some of the little understood doctrines when they appear in her story.

If you are looking for a diatribe or poison pen against Jehovah's Witnesses or the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society you may be disappointed. She neither attacks nor excuses them. She more often reflects on the confused contradictions she experienced trying to make sense of the wide gap between what was taught and how it was lived.

Having studied the Witnesses and their organization for more than two years I was familiar with many of the ways they apply scripture to their lives and Joy's descriptions are fair. The fact Joy's parents and step-father clearly took some of them to the extreme only confirms they were unbalanced people. I have some close personal relationships with a few Witnesses but probably could not get them to read this book as they would likely view it as apostate writing.

The book serves to remind us how men and women in any religious following who fail to use the good minds God gave them to discern good from evil but instead faithfully, but blindly follow a religious organization as proof of loyalty to God, can find themselves quite quickly in horrible circumstances.

Joy's book also gives hope to those who seek a relationship with God rather than an organization.

I felt that the book was very well written and engrossing. Having suffered through a very similar situation in my youth with this particular religion it was a comfort to me to know that during those lonely years that I truly wasn't alone: Other people were going through the same confusion and frustration that I had been through. Mrs. Castro did a great job of explaining the JW thought process and the total lack of respect they have for women. They are very willing to place uneducated men to call the shots in their congregations. They allow these men to make decisions that they have had no training, no experience and no business in. The mere fact that they are men is the only qualification many of them need. I felt Mrs. Castro also did a great job of showing how manipulative the JW's are. The "truth" is not what they are interested in at all. Preservation of their beliefs, right or wrong is what fuels them. The book must have been difficult for her to write but I would think cathartic also.

I could not put this book down. The mental and physical abuse that Ms Castro and her brother received is unbelievable. As we move through her incredible life it is inspiring that she was able to rise above her circumstances and find peace within herself and create a loving enviroment for her son. I have no history with JW, but would recommend this book to anyone. Beautifully written. Can't wait for the next book by Joy Castro.

This book (Chinese translation) was given to me on the day of my baptism by an old lady in my church. At that time I was a 13 years old boy in a Presbyterian church in Taiwan. The Chinese title of the book was "The Power of Prayer" so I never thought of it as a book written for women. I remember I wept many times reading through that book. At this particular end-of-the-chapter prayer in which I surrender every part of my life to God...I was only a 13 years old boy in 6th grade, yet I pictured all the things I would do and love in the next decades and that I had given them up to God for His purpose.
My life had never been the same.
Today I am a 24 years old and a Master of Divinity student at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. As I am sitting in front of my computer weeping for all the hardships I have been through in my life, the prayer that I made 11 years ago came to me. I opened that 11 years old book and read that chapter again. I realized that my life has indeed been in His hands over all these years and through all the hardships.
In all, God is transforming me into a humble servant for Him, and in this difficult sanctifying process I am learning obedience and trusting in Him alone. This journey all started that night...reading this book.

Our Bible Study group is studying through WHWWP, and it is clear, concise, and completely interesting. We hope to work into a women's prayer group through the study of this book. It's for all stages of Christianity, those who are new to Christ and those who are more mature in their Christian walk. It comes highly recommended.

This is an excellent & easy reading book for those new to prayer or those just wanting some guidance. Men & women will benefit from these methods. It has enhanced my private prayer time as well as family & group prayer time.

I highly recommend this book to all God's children.

I am an avid reader of books and purchased this book for a friend returing to South Africa. I was spellbound by the message the author conveyed and the results of what happens when we pray as women.

This is such a great book! I'm now reading it for the third time and I gain new insights each time. I've purchased copies for friends and family as well.

This book was almost impossible to put down, with such compelling content that I actually forgot I was having lunch in a restaurant while reading it! This book takes little time to read but should provoke considerable reflection in the reader. We ALL need this reminder of the impact of our words and that we CAN CONTROL our reactions to events and to others and that we MUST consider the consequences of our word choices on others.

The best book around on this subject. Intelligently written without being scholarly and academic. Get copies for yourself and all of your friends. The Bible and Jewish tradition have much to say about speech and that muscle in our mouths that causes so much trouble. Applying the wisdom in this book can change one's life. Be quick to listen, slow to speak. Heed the words of Proverbs and James 3:5-6. Speak like you want others to speak to you. Speak words that build up--not those that tear down.

Wonderful, thought provoking, life changing book. Really caused me to examine my speech habits and to consider the great power of my spoken words. This would be a great book for a club or even a study group. Jew or Gentile could gain much from reading and applying this book.

This book's awesome! Powerful messages that change the way one looks at the words. Loved it. Received as described!

I have owned this book for many years, both my son and daughter have a copy. This is an absolute must read not just for those of the us who are Jewish; but for anyone who struggles with the truth or is incapable of telling it. I have given this particular book many, many times. Only recently I thought of a business arrangement involving a particular couple who would benefit from this book. I have ordered this book for them and hope this reading sets them free.

I received my first copy of And There Was Light in 1977. The book was out of print at the time and members of my spiritual group had to resort to copying it for study. I'm grateful that it's back in print and Jacques Lusseyran's life and work are receiving more attention. Regarding the subtitle, I wonder what Jacques would say about being called a hero? Perhaps he would just laugh and shake his head since he conveys so clearly in And There Was Light that he was just an ordinary person who trusted his heart in a world gone mad. I think the best compliment I can pay the book is it makes me long to be better myself.

As others have said it's a book about blindness, coming of age, WWII, the Holocaust, the French resistance, etc. What is truly unique about it though cannot be easily described, and is best appreciated in the reading. Just get a copy and read it.

This is a very unique perspective that has a miriad of themes. Keep in mind that this book has been translated from french. The semantics and verbage is somewhat awkward at times, but the message remains clear. This meling pot of personal experiences encompass: blindness as a youth, minds-eye interpretations of a blind individual, internal strength, the occupation of France during WWII, the French Underground, detailed brutality of the Nazi Party, prison camp conditions, and repatriation. Once again, I will stress that the themes are broad and this is a translated text, yet it still succeeds in painting a well orchistrated picture of each theme. Most importantly, the theme of hope and strength solidify the foundation and triumph in the end.

This is a beautifully writen book. Read it for yourself. You will really enjoy it.

This is the autobiography of a blind hero of the French Resistance during WWII. Lusseyran lost his eyesight as a young boy through an accident at school, caused by a bully. But instead of sinking helplessly into darkness he gradually developed his other senses to extraordinary capacity.
When seventeen,while interviewing volunteers, willing to join the Resistance, he perceived colors when they answered questions. These colors revealed to him whether they could be trusted or not. Once, however,his friends disagreed with his recommendation. They all were taken prisoner and sent to the Concentration Camp.It was there, that the 18 year old found his second calling: Poetry. Reciting poetry by heart, he assembled the prisoners daily. The imagery had life-sustaining quality for them and a moment of renewal to all that participated. His experiences and observations there, later led him to choose to study philosophy and literature at the Sorbonne.He lectured at the various American universities until his death.
recommended additional reading by Lusseyran: "Against the Pollution of the I"

A classic study in overcoming adversity and finding hope in hopeless situations. If it were a work of fiction, we would doubt the author's credebility - but this is not fiction, this is the real life of an ordinary individual made extraordinary by the light of his saviour. It is an inspirational book and adventure action novel all in one. Rarely do we find a hero so authentic and humble as Mr. Lusseyran - and only he could share the story because only he has access to that light so necessary for the complete telling.