Anne Rice, best know for her series on
Vampires, has taken on an aggressive and daunting task in recent years. Writing a new collection of books titled Christ the Lord, focusing on the life, work, and thoughts of Yeshua bar Yosef (Jesus son son of Joesph).
Having read the first two links in her pursuit (Christ the Lord: The Road to Cana), it is hard to dismiss her efforts. Rice has proven herself a capable researcher, and masterful storyteller. Written in the perspective of Yeshua bar Yosef, this historical fiction brings insights to the mind of Christ. Of course much of the book lies in speculation about who and what might have surrounded Christ the Lord in his journey from a manger in Bethlehem to the Wedding feast in Cana.
Words of warning should go out to those who may desire a new telling of the gospel (as in Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John)! This epic story is a story and does not resemble dogmatic texts. However, if you can not find your way through the imagery of Young Yeshua dreaming of an attractive woman to whom he has been encouraged to wed, STAY AWAY. Having made this warning, imagery showing Yeshua as a boy, young man, son, nephew, and friend make a compelling story and remind us the Christ the Lord was made flesh and dwelt among us.
Hearing Christ the Boy. For those of you who are not readers per say, have an opportunity to enjoy this book as well. Audible.com has made this book available on there site (or itunes) for those who might enjoy hearing something other than music during the next commute. The narrator (Josh Henie) nails the sound of a seven year old storyteller and the audio quality is excellent considering the download size.
Overall, a firm recommendation for both books is given by this reader. This may be the best way to introduce the life of Christ to someone interested in an overview, but uninterested in reading the Bible.
Labels: Anne Rice, Christ the Lord
