Genre: Devotional/History/Christian Life

Highly Recommended

I don’t usually enjoy devotionals, but was drawn to this one because of its unique historical focus on Jonathan Edwards, who was a pivotal minister in the First Great Awakening, most famous for his sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”

The devotional is dated from January 1 through December 31, each about a page long, beginning with a snippet from Jonathan Edwards’ writing, a meaty commentary, and a concluding verse.

I am impressed by the depth and quality of Strachan’s writing. It is culturally relevant, spiritually stirring, theologically insightful, historically illuminating, and personally motivating. Reflecting through the material has given me a better understanding of Jonathan Edwards, of God, and of myself in relationship with the Lord.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale.

Genre: Memoir

Recommended!

Deep Under Cover is a very engaging memoir of an East German KGB agent who infiltrates the United States during the Cold War. The author details his early life in East Germany, his recruitment into the KGB, his complex personal relationships, his transformation into espionage and rebirth into the identity of American Jack Barsky, and eventually of the love that changed his world, drawing him toward a new physical and spiritual identity.

Jack’s story is both fascinating and touching. His perspective of each “side” during the Cold War is valuable. And it is clear throughout that the Lord continuously intervened on Jack’s behalf. He ends with focusing very directly on the mindset shift, which lead him into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. His encounter with the FBI is also particularly interesting.

It’s amazing Jack was able to share his story so openly, regardless of what details may be missing as per each mission. Definitely worth reading!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Momentum.

Genre: Memoir/Grief

Recommended!

September Vaudrey writes a beautiful memoir of the vibrant life of her daughter, Katie, who joined Jesus unexpectedly at age 19. She gracefully and honestly captures the depths and intersections of grief, joy, death, life, pain and love. There were also unexpected moments of suspense in seeing how God may have been working behind the scenes of this tragedy—His showing up in the most unconventional ways.

Katie was an artist, and some of her paintings/artwork are scattered throughout the book (including the front cover design, which is a rough draft of her newest work, shortly before her death). The book sections are also appropriately titled by meaningful paint colors, carrying on the depth of Katie’s artistic passion. The art and family pictures brought an added sense of connectedness to the Vaudrey family, and the treasure of Katie’s life.

This is a touching memoir. I love how September shows her grieving process within the perspective of the community, including how each family member needed to grieve differently, and how their extended family, church family, and community surrounded them in a manner that soothed them within their pain. This book is inspiring, hopeful, and life-giving.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Momentum.

Genre: Autobiography/Memoir

Recommended!

Mahtob had a normal life in Michigan until her Iranian father suddenly transformed into an intolerable and abusive husband, kidnapping five-year old Mahtob and her mother into Iran, where they were mistreated in the midst of an already difficult time of war. Upon their escape, Mahtob’s mother wrote Not Without My Daughter, which was also made into a movie. Now Mahtob shares her memories of that part of her life, as well as her aftermath in living with the active threat of her father, struggling through Lupus, and learning to forgive.

Framed within the motif of No-ruz (the Persian New Year), Mahtob’s writing is elegant, honest, bold, and vulnerable. The details Mahtob shares from her childhood kidnapping are vibrant and touching. The emotional pain and fear she dealt with after those events in trying to make a normal life for herself are equally captivating, and written with the suspense of the moment.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Mahtob’s memoir. It is an inspirational story that could help others overcome the traumas and unforgiveness in their own lives.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.

Genre: Memoir

Recommended.

At twelve, Martin contracted an illness that left him debilitated—unable to speak, move, or thrive on his own. His family continued to care for him, but did not realize he was aware of his surroundings. Then a care-giver changed his life by treating him like a person, believing in him, and helping him connect with an opportunity to learn to speak using technology. Now he shares his touching journey of having been very much awake and alert as a “ghost boy” within his unresponsive body. He pieces together his memories, sharing his strength in overcoming obstacles to re-enter the world by learning to communicate, gaining independence, and finding love.

This is a touching memoir, and insightful coming-to-age story, from one who has overcome so much adversity. Martin openly shares of being abused (verbally, physically, and sexually) in some of the special needs institutions that he spent time in over the years. He also shares of overhearing family members complain about the burden of caring for him, and of the many difficulties of being respected and noticed within the “real world” as a special needs adult. His positive attitude throughout it all is inspiring, as is the way he speaks of God as an ever-present companion in the years when the outside world could not recognize the life and intelligence of his active spirit.

I found parts of the narrative hard to follow as it is not always chronological and felt jumbled at times. The writing itself also varies between very engaging, and not-so-much. Overall though, it is a blessing that Martin can now share his story. He and his wife Joanna are both strong and inspiring individuals, and Martin’s perspective gives new meaning to what it means to be alive.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.

Genre: Christian Living/Catholic

Not Recommended.

I am slightly biased against this book in that I am not Catholic, and do not always love the church fathers (due to the anti-Semitism and theologies of some of them). But I was excited to read this none-the-less since I actually do love church history (even in some of its ugliness), and was hoping to develop a stronger knowledge of the church fathers, and greater appreciation for the Catholic portion of the Body of Messiah and their traditions.

The Ancient Path was not as I expected as it is more of a personal memoir that weaves in the theologies and teachings of the church fathers and contemporary mentors of the author, rather than disclosing pure history. I did learn some things, although I would not recommend this as a resource to gain knowledge of the church fathers or history. The sub-title is misleading on this point. It is actually not about the church fathers or church history at all, but rather a poetic and emotional journey to connect to God through the Catholic experience (based on a loose foundation of the Catholic fathers).

It is beautifully written, yet it was hard for me to connect with the writing—probably due to my very different spiritual perspective, and also in that it was so unlike my expectations that I had trouble knowing where the story was going or what to get out of it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Blogging for Books from Image Books.

Genre: Autobiography/Historical

Highly Recommended!

Dietrich von Hildebrand was a German Catholic philosopher, professor, and writer who recognized the dangers of National Socialism and Nazism from the start. He fled Germany in 1933 because he felt he could not remain under such a regime, and when his professorship at the University of Munich was threatened, he proudly chose to submit himself as a “non-aryan” even though he did not consider himself Jewish.

This book is a collection of pieces from his personal memoirs (which he wrote for his second wife, who was much younger and wanted to share in his experiences), followed by several short essays expounding on his beliefs. Interspersed throughout the memoirs, and as a preface to each essay are helpful notes by the translator/editor to set the scene and bring cohesion.

The writings themselves are like reading the diary of a giant in the faith, and I appreciate the editors’ choices of which of his vast writings to include. There are slower parts as Hildebrand reflects on day-to-day issues, touching personal reflections of his mistakes and the depth of his faith, exciting insights of historical moments, and brilliant commentary and philosophizing of important social issues and evils.

His life and words are a powerful and timely message for today as he urges the church not to compromise by making ungodly alliances, or by participating in social injustice by remaining apathetic. His bold warnings against anti-semitism and what he calls an “unfortunate peace” with Hitler (and thus, the spirit of the anti-Christ) are powerful, especially with the rise of anti-semitism today.

I particularly liked Hildebrand’s distinction of patriotism versus social nationalism, and his similar discussion on the value of a community in bringing out the individual, as opposed to the mass of people, which strips all individuality and diversity in order to create an enthusiastic wave of unity. Hildebrand was a significant voice in his time, even making it to the top of the Nazi’s hit list; and he is one worth taking the time to listen to today.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Image Books.

Genre: Autobiography/Social Issues

Highly Recommended!

This is one of the most moving biographical testimonies I have read!

Abby Johnson’s passion for helping women prompted her to volunteer with Planned Parenthood, where she eventually became the director of a clinic in Bryan, Texas, counseling and aiding hurting women—and yes, aiding in abortions as well. She even had a couple abortions herself.

It is an exciting miracle, then, when God progressively transforms her heart to recognize the harm and injustice of abortion, despite her good intentions, and to confront the lies she had believed about abortion being a helpful and viable option when God has better plans to make all things good—even in the most difficult situations.

Her testimony is powerful, vivid, and emotional; sharing honestly from both sides of the pro-choice/pro-life conflict. This is a difficult topic, but I felt the story was balanced in revealing the good and the bad from both sides of the “fence” (e.g. the pro-choice love for women that may be unexpected from a pro-lifer, or some of the hate-filled methods of protest by the pro-life crowd). In eventually partnering with the “enemy” (the Coalition for Life), Abby finds God’s love, and begins partnering for social justice in God’s way. It is truly a remarkable story; and the new ending in this revised version is exciting for the pro-life camp!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers (it is co-published with Focus on the Family).

Genre: Biography/History

Hannah More is one of the most incredible historical people I had never known about or studied. She was dedicated to educating women and the poor, was a recognized writer, fought to abolish slavery, and rubbed shoulders with many prominent men including David Garrick, Samuel Johnson, William Wilberforce, and Horace Walpole. Her influence is particularly astonishing considering her standing as an unmarried British women in the late 18th and early 19th centuries; and she was motivated by her great faith for God and His work of social justice.

As interesting as I found this book, I would have like it to have been more story-oriented and less “text-book” style. I did not enjoy reading it so much as I afterward appreciated the facts I learned through the reading process. The cover-art captivated and drew me to choose this book; but the writing itself (while strong and well researched) was a bit of a let down: dry, uninteresting, and hard to get through, with some unnecessary repetition due to its non-linear structure. I feel as if I learned the facts about Hannah More, without that personal insight into her person, faith, and the chronology of what moved and influenced her into dramatic action.

I would recommend this as a resource for one studying Hannah More, but not as a fun-read for those who enjoy a captivating biography.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.

Genre: Memoir

Recommended!

There is a reason this is a best-selling book right now: it’s a good one! It is also a brave book. The author expresses his experience as the son of one of Hamas’ core leaders, his work as a spy for the Shin Bet, and his conversion to Christianity. His vulnerability for the sake of his message is outstanding and demonstrative of his love (God’s love through him) for all people.

I was captivated by the spy aspect of the narrative, fascinated by his detailed recap of the groups and events within the Middle Eastern conflict, and especially touched as he presented the gradual transition of his heart from hatred toward the Jews to working with Israeli intelligence, then toward the Creator God and Christian faith. It is interesting to see God speaking through him and guiding him even before he dedicated his life to Him.

It is also amazing to hear the testimony of the difference in his experience of worshipping God compared to Allah. Is “God/Allah’s” personhood defined by His name or His attributes? Yousef shows that Allah and the Christian God are distinct in their characteristics, thus are not the same. His experience with each are deeply felt by the attentive reader.

I appreciate this story, and am excited to hear that there is also a documentary (The Green Prince) based on this story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

 

Genre: Christian Living/Men/Memoir

Recommended!

This is a powerful testimony of the author’s experience getting lost in the intense terrain of the Peruvian Andes for five days with no food or water, and minimal equipment. His trip was intended to be a short day hike, spurned by his desire to trace the genealogy and locations of his Peruvian-born wife’s family. As a decorated military veteran and experienced outdoors-man, he did not expect his journey to become a fight for survival—rescued only though the Lord’s miraculous provision and guidance.

It is a small book (only about 160 pages), but one with a very valuable message. The beginning starts out a bit slowly—describing Scott’s wife’s genealogy, and his intentions in setting out (both which held my attention). Then it becomes a fast paced, very detailed account of his adventure (think of the yuckiest ways of finding moisture as a severely dehydrated person…the story depicts every minutiae: be aware if you are a reader who may not want to know…).

This book spoke to me—not so much because I enjoy hiking (although I do), but because his emotional journey to truly submit to God in humility and acceptance of God’s will over his own desires is something I have struggled with as well. Scott’s testimony paralleled my own feelings in the midst of a very different sort of trial, and was both inspiring and encouraging to me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah.

Genre: Wisdom Literature/Christian Life

Highly Recommended.

Evangelical mega church pastor, Chase Falson, has lost his faith after the death of a young girl in his congregation. His learned answers for why things happen as they do, who God is, and what God wants from the church are no longer enough for him. After an embarrassing emotional breakdown mid-sermon, he is encouraged to take time off from church to gather himself. He uses the time to visit his Uncle Kenny, a Franciscan priest in Italy, who takes him on a pilgrimage through the monumental places and moments in the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Along his journey he questions his own faith, what the contemporary Christianity should look like, and how the church should evangelize in this postmodern age.

Saint Francis of Assisi contributed so dramatically to Christianity that most Christians have probably heard something about him whether or not they realize it. He is, for instance, the one often quoted for saying, “Preach the gospel, if necessary, use words.” Cron illustrates St. Francis’ major beliefs seamlessly through this creative mix of fiction and non-fiction, story and biography. As a seminary student, I appreciated the references to many of the people and historical moments I have studied in various theology courses. Cron’s well-researched narrative covers quite a bit of space concisely and gracefully.

More importantly, the author’s natural humor (possibly offensive to very conservative Christians at times) helps the story flow fluidly. It is difficult to write a fiction/non-fiction mix well, but I really enjoyed this one. It is a fun read, with great characters, and the added benefit of teaching a bit of history and theology.

Lastly, the questions naturally addressed through the pilgrimage tale are so important to the church at this time. Whether or not the reader agrees with the position of the author (an Episcopalian priest and advocate of St. Francis’ lifestyle), the narrative will propel the consideration of these important issues, and is outlined to provide an excellent starting point for discussion. My own perspective and background are very different from the author’s, and yet I appreciated his presentation of both Francis and his critique of the condition of many portions of the contemporary church. Also included is one of the most thorough study guides I have encountered, making it a great resource for a Bible study or book club.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Zondervan Publications.

Genre: Memoir

Recommended!

This is the perfect book for teenage girls, and woman of all ages who struggle with body image or simply want to enjoy the testimony of one young woman’s transformation through Christ. Kylie shares her early years of struggling to break into a career in modeling, her encounter with the Lord and decision to become a Christian as a High School student, her life and challenges as a model, her fairy tale romance and marriage, her exciting acceptance as a Victoria’s Secret supermodel, and how the Lord transformed her heart to leave her coveted career to become a Proverbs 31 wife and role model.

Kylie expresses her own experiences and body image problems honestly and powerfully. Her behind-the-scenes details about the modeling industry bring to life the error of evaluating ourselves and others by outward appearance alone. Kylie’s message of spiritual transformation is hidden within a diary-like account of her feelings, struggles, and convictions at various personal milestones. Her descriptions of her husband’s patience and support were also really touching. As an adult woman, I was encouraged by her story, although the writing style is accessible and directed more toward a teen audience. She also includes a 30 day devotional make-over: a Bible verse, personal story, two devotional questions, and a “true beauty tip” (short sentence of encouragement) to reflect on each day. Each short exercise helps to build security and confidence of the inner beauty that God wants His daughters to radiate.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Tyndale Blog Network.

Genre: Biography/Inspirational

Highly Recommended!

Fearless is my new favorite biography. Navy SEAL Operator Adam Brown was a fascinating and inspiring person and Blehm’s writing captivates Adam’s story thoroughly and excellently. I was quickly caught up into the details and struggles of Adam’s early life, and inspired and awed by his motivation, boldness, and extreme love for God and life in his later years. Adam Brown’s progression of faith and his testimony in Jesus Christ is, in fact, a large part of his story and one of the aspects I deeply connected with.

I also enjoyed the glance into the inner workings of the Navy SEALs and was surprised by how much the author was able to publicly share regarding various missions and SEAL life. I’ve never been a part of a military community or given much thought into military life, and I felt that this book helped me to consider that part of my country in a deeper way.

This is a very action oriented story with a good amount of humor, but also a very emotional one—and I’m not a terribly emotional reader. I found that although I was prepared for Adam’s heroic death to be described at some point within the book, I couldn’t help but sob when the events unfolded. It’s a touching biography and will especially be appreciated within the Christian community.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah.

Genre: Autobiography/Sports/Inspirational

Recommended.

Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson shares a piece of her life and experience in a very personable and encouraging way. She talks in detail about gymnastics, but also her crushes on boys, her self image and weight pressures, her time on Dancing with the Stars, her scary stalker, and the injury that nearly cost her her career. She shares many personal stories, thoughts, and poetry. This is really an inside scoop into her life, and I have to say: she has a winning personality. I love Shawn’s honesty, vulnerability, and the cheerfulness of her writing. It’s hard to read this and not become a fan.

Since I haven’t closely followed gymnastics, I searched Google and YouTube for Shawn as soon as I had started the book to see what the media was saying. Most of her press is overwhelmingly positive—and I can see why!—but Shawn’s behind-the-scenes commentary completes and responds to her image in the media confidently and gracefully. I especially appreciated Shawn’s vulnerability in discussing her struggle with weight gain after the Olympics. Regardless of where God takes her in the future, Shawn is an amazing young woman with an excellent story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Tyndale Blog Network.

Genre: Autobiography/Inspirational

Recommended.

Kristen Anderson attempted suicide by lying on the tracks in front of a moving train. She was run over by 33 freight train cars going 55 miles per hour, yet survived—losing only her legs (and eight pints of blood). She shouldn’t be alive, but God protected her, then wooed her into a life with Him.

This is a really remarkable story! Kristen shares the deep pain she felt leading to her decision to take her life, the details of the accident and aftermath, and the process she went through to discover God and her calling. She had been told by most of her family and friends that had she succeeded in killing herself she would be in heaven. But one women told her otherwise—maybe not as tactfully as she could have—which caused Kristen to consider deeply her salvation and what it means to be saved. She realized that, in fact, she was not a Christian and that going to church was not enough. I love the way she walks readers through her discovery and personal decision to follow Jesus, and her honesty in sharing her struggles and sanctification process shortly after making that important decision.

Kristen now heads a non-profit, Reaching You Ministries, which focuses on touching those who are going through similar hurts that she experienced (especially depression and suicide). I recommend Life, In Spite of Me to teens or adults who struggle with depression and suicidal tendencies or who want to help a loved one through these struggles to freedom in Christ.

I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from WaterBrook Multnomah.

Genre: Memoir/True Crime/Christian Life

Recommended.

Even when faced with terrifying threats, physical attacks, and the impending harm upon their family, Rebecca’s parent’s, Robert and Ramona Nichols, refused to step outside of God’s will by fleeing the community and church to which they had been called. Their bravery cost their family almost everything; but as Rebecca shares of the events surrounding the ultimate moments of tragedy in her young life, she also shares how the love of Jesus exuded by her parents transformed her life into one of unconditional love and forgiveness—even for her enemies. Her comments toward the end of the story regarding forgiveness are especially powerful, and her testimony of hurt and forgiveness are worth reading and repeating.

From a literary perspective, I unfortunately did not enjoy the story as much. It is such an amazing testimony, and yet, structurally, it did not come together as cohesively as I think it could have. The story hinges on one villain (“the devil in pew number seven”) and one climatic moment of loss and tragedy—except that these are actually completely separate events; only in the epilogue does Rebecca reveal a small connection between the two. A lot of the story, consequently, felt scattered to me—still heartfelt storytelling, but unfocused and giving too many irrelevant details. I recommend this book to other readers based on it’s content, but only with the disclaimer that it is slow, unfocused, and in-cohesive—a bit of patience is needed to hear the wisdom between the lines.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Tyndale Blog Network.

Genre: Biography & Autobiography

Recommended.

Thunder Dog is the true account of a blind man and his guide dog as they escape the 78th floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Inspired by the calm and collectiveness of his dog, Michael was able to keep his focus and emotions in tact as they make the long descend to freedom.

This isn’t just a story of September 11. Intermixed within the main story, the author shares his experience growing up blind. It’s also the story of the bond and trust between him and his guide dog, Roselle. Their story of teamwork and trust is an inspiring glimpse of the spiritual bond Christian’s have (or should have) with God.

Reading this account helped me emotionally connect to the events of 9/11 in a way I previously hadn’t. I’m typically pretty rational, and tend to focus on the big picture. Michael brings us inside his story to feel with him and others as they braved this huge tragedy. Most touching to me was how Michael describes meeting the courageous firefighters as they ran up the stairs toward impending destruction. This is a touching and encouraging story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogging Program through booksneeze.com.

Genre: Biography

Recommended.

This biography of Tolkien’s life, writing, and faith is certainly interesting, though not as impressive as I had expected. Tolkien had a hard life. He experienced the loss of both parents and many friends, and had to work very hard to earn himself an education and to make enough to support his family. This biography was successful in capturing the essence of his life and character, but did not go above and beyond that mark.

It is a well-researched snapshot into Tolkien’s life. There could have been more regarding his Christian faith (especially considering this is part of the Christian Encounters Series). I am not convinced by this work that his faith was actually a driving force to his life and writing, though the book does describe him as having strong convictions regarding the Roman Catholic Church. Nevertheless it was certainly an appealing and worthwhile read, especially for its short length, and I feel I learned a bit about Tolkien’s life and its reflection in his writing. I recommend it to anyone who wants to understand the basics of Tolkien’s life, and although many details of his literary works are discussed, I think it would be easy to follow without being familiar with his writing.

I received a complimentary ebook as a part of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogging Program through booksneeze.com.

Genre: Autobiography/Inspirational

Not Recommended.

This is the story of a man who was conceived when his mother prostituted herself for $20 in order to keep her children and herself alive. He was adopted into a loving Christian family and shares his struggle to find his identity. Now a nationally acclaimed motivational speaker, Reggie loves to encourage people (especially young people) with his story.

Reggie Dabbs is a man whose life was changed when he discovered the grace of God, and I enjoyed reading his story; I think most readers will find it inspirational. He’s not a theologian however, and I felt that his attempts to fit pieces of the Bible into his story distracted from his message instead of adding to it. In a couple places, his accounts of Bible stories were embellished past the point of accuracy. I had been expecting more pure story-telling and less commentary, so was disappointed that this is more of a teaching and preaching book than an inspirational autobiography. There are even questions for reflection after every chapter, which could be nice for some readers.

This was a fine book, but not one I enjoyed well enough to recommend. I’m also not sure I agree with the motivational speaking strategy he describes using when he meets with crowds in person: calling out specific destinies for specific students (without a prophetic anointing) and verbally adopting kids as his sons and daughters (when only God can truly do that). It sounds like Reggie influences and encourages many of our youth; I pray that he also is leading them to know the Lord.

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogging Program through booksneeze.com.

Genre: Spiritual Growth/Biography

Recommended.

Randy Clark is best known for his prominent influence in the Toronto Blessing—the revival in Canada in the 1990s. Now that we are some time from the event of the Toronto Blessing, Clark shares his testimony, and the testimonies of others regarding the work of the Spirit, especially in regard to the impartation of the Holy Spirit during and after this occurrence. He writes, “I am writing this book to answer the question, ‘Where’s the fruit?’ I am responding to the critics because there has been time for those who were so powerfully touched to bring to the Master the sheaves of their harvest” (152). This statement adequately describes the purpose of most of the book. As one who is not so familiar with the Toronto Blessing, or even his ministry, Global Awakening, I found it very interesting to get ‘behind the scenes’ with Randy to discover his background (turns out he began as a Baptist) and the huge ways the Lord has used and anointed him in ministry. He also gives countless testimonies from others who experienced an anointing of supernatural power, deeper intimacy with God and exciting new manifestations of the Holy Spirit after receiving impartation at the Toronto Blessing.

A smaller portion of the book (the beginning and end) dealt with the material I expected to read. That is, the history and biblical basis for impartation, a good definition of impartation, and how we can prepare our spirits to receive this gift of grace. While his writing is succinct and informative, there is a lot he didn’t go into; I think another book could be written on impartation itself, and I’m not sure the sub-title truly fits the content of this book. Overall though, this is a book of powerful words and awesome testimonies: an inspiring read!

Genre: Biography/Autobiography

Highly Recommended!

This is one of the best books I’ve read in awhile. Keith Green was a composer and musician who pursued God passionately and only became more passionate after finding the One he was looking for. His life was short, but his spiritual legacy still continues after his death.

I love how honest this account of his life is. Keith’s wife, Melody, writes his story (as well as her own) using clips of his personal journal entries and songs. She doesn’t shy away from sharing the questions and struggles he had in his pursuit of God, nor does she quench his deep passions and dreams. I was deeply encouraged by his boldness, fearlessness, love of God and people, and especially that within all these things, he still had questions, still made mistakes, and didn’t have it all together.

This is also a great book for a book club or Bible study. I read it along with a class I’m taking and we had many lively discussions. Almost all of us expressed the Holy Spirit had communicated to us through Keith’s life: encouraging us, exhorting us, creating more introspection into our lives, or bringing us to a new level of passion or intimacy with Him. I don’t usually read biographies, but this one was excellent! It has caused me to think deeply and live with a deeper awareness of the effect of my actions.

Recommended: A thorough autobiography of the author’s former Muslim perspective and re-birth through Jesus Christ.

Saada’s story stretches from silly childhood episodes, to his involvement as a sniper and personal chauffeur to his long time hero Yasser Arafat, and to the supernatural way God pursued him in the midst of it all.  Written in casual story-telling language, it’s easy to follow Saada’s personal transgression from hating the Jews and fearing Allah to recognizing Jesus as God and finding love and grace (even for the Jews).  As his faith progresses, he is amazed to find Arabs prominently placed in the Bible—not with the same mission, inheritance, and responsibility as the Jews, but with equal love from God (who loves all nations), and with their own unique blessings and promises.

Now the founder of Christian humanitarian organization Hope for Ishmael, Saada has a strong passion for Arab-Jewish reconciliation in the Middle East as each people group discovers Jesus as God and understands their individual role in His kingdom.  The final chapters express amazing optimism that peace is fully achievable as every person recognizes and follows Jesus.

This view of peace and reconciliation, while understandable in the context of Saada’s message, wrongfully exaggerates the message of the Bible and leaves out a great deal of God’s story.  I don’t see this as making his personal testimony and insight less valuable, but I’d like to counterbalance his argument by reminding readers that while followers of Jesus are called to live peacefully whenever possible, we should not expect peace or reconciliation contrary to Biblical prophecies or to allegiance to our Lord.  The Bible is very explicit that at some point all nations will be against Israel (yet to be fulfilled in fullness) and also that a world-wide religious, economic and political system is coming which will superficially be about peace and tolerance, then lead into the violent regime of the Antichrist.  So while I appreciate Saada’s idealism that the Middle East can be fully reconciled, we also have to remember that Jesus came to bring a division (Luke 12:49-51), and that many will choose to reject Jesus and the peace He brings.  Christians should never attempt to fabricate peace outside of Jesus or without Him, so we should be prudent that Jesus always remain the central focus of evangelism.

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of the Tyndale Blog Network.