Once this book arrived on my doorstep a quick look at the table of contents assured me that this book was not going to be some sappy work that I would have to slog through. Each story of love highlighted in Wright's book covered a different facet of love. Happily, I had not signed on to read a book that was going to be full of gushy "romantic love". Yay!
Each of the biblical love stories are retold and explained in a way that help you appreciate the story in a new light. Several of the stories in this book I have seen retold in other books geared to younger audience, but the fullness and beauty of the love was not conveyed as well in those books as it was in this one. I enjoyed how cultural information relating to the time of the story is explained in many of the chapters to help the reader fully appreciate the depth and significance of the love that is being expressed in the story. In other books, that information would be totally lacking, and as a result, the reader would likely miss the point of the story.
I particularly liked how each chapter ended with a prayer, a quote, reflection questions and a love connection. All of these end of chapter elements further the readers understanding of the story and are wonderful aids for reflecting on the message. The reflection questions nudge the reader to dig deeper and think about the story. The section entitled "Love Connection" prompts you to do something to put the love facet highlighted in the story into action in your own life.
Because of the way this book is set up, it would be perfect to use in a group setting or as a couple. Of course, if you choose to read this book on your own you'll still get a lot out of it. It certainly will lead to many introspective moments.
I think this book is one that is best read slowly. The book is very well written and could easily be read in a day or two, but I suspect the reader would wind up glossing over the messages contained in each story by not taking the time to reflect on each one. It is certainly a book that is best for reflection.
This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on The Bible's Best Love Stories and check out their great selection of Mary statues while you are there.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
You've piqued my interest in the book definitely ! I've read the author's other books and really enjoyed them. Looking forward to picking up a copy of his latest prose.
ReplyDeleteThis book was a pleasure to read. It explained each love story with a nice and genuine touch, applicable to life as we live it now. I could not agree with you more about the messages in this book. You really start to see things in yourself and the way you interact with others, as well as finding out a bit more about your own relationships- and what you can do to improve upon them or communicate differently with loved ones in order to enhance the bonds you already share. I have reccommended this book to everyone that I know. I truly enjoyed turning each page and learning all the lessons from every love story! Great book...and an especially smart pick for a book club due to the discussion topics and prayers it includes with each story. I applaud the author!
ReplyDeleteI also enjoyed this book, as well as the 2 others he has written. They are written in a way that is down to earth, easy to relate to, and inspiring . I liked the 'Bibles Best Love Stories' since it makes you reflect about all of our relationships, what they mean to us, how they change and effect us, and how we can love each other (our kids, spouses, parents, friends, co-workers, etc.,) in a better and more Christian way.
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