Story, by Steven James: Imagery, Poetry, Drama

"Only God could tell a story this ludicrous and then claim that it’s true,” says Steven James, who penned Story, which makes the Bible come alive in provocative and poetic ways, encapsulating the mystery and beauty of the Christian story.

    James, a professional storyteller from East Tennessee, grew up in the church but fell in love with Jesus at age 21 on Easter Sunday at his bosses’ church.

    Through 30 short chapters, James retells key elements of the Christian story—from Adam and Eve in the Garden, to the Israelites' plea for freedom, to the love/hate struggles between humans and God in the Old Testament. Story illuminates Jesus' miraculous birth and daring ministry on earth, building to the “rising terror” of the crucifixion and rediscovery of freedom following the resurrection.

Julieanne's Thoughts:

    To really, honestly get a close view of what the author, Steven James, has done in his newly revised book, Story, you'll just have to take a look at the sample, below.  Each chapter is a unique combination of storytelling, Scripture verses, poetry, and a retelling of sorts, of some of the events in the Bible.  When I say, "unique", his method of combining his thoughts and Scriptures is definitely not the typical manner of writing one would find in a Bible devotional. 

    I couldn't really tell to what ages this book is geared, but I believe that high schoolers and adults would find it most appealing, although some jr. highers might also like it. 

    There were some phrases, occasionally, that really made me think.  This is quite the philosophical book, one that takes a different glance at many parts of the Bible and places them into different perspectives than a person would typically hear about in Sunday School. 

    I think this would be a good book to read as a family, together, and discuss the many nuances and points that the author is trying to make.  If you are interested in having family discussions about the Bible, Story will give you a great start in that direction.

    Here's the excerpt:

Story is available August 2012  at your favorite bookseller -  from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Julieanne

Joy In Our Journey.com

    I received one paperback copy of Story in exchange for my honest review of this book.  No other compensation was provided. 

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