1 comments about Rav Chesed: The Life and Times of Rabbi Haskel Lookstein.

1. Really captures the various roles that Rabbi Lookstein has played and continues to play at KJ, Ramaz and as a leader of the Jewish People. It is amazing to think of anyone who has been employed by the same synagogue for over 50 years. It is even more amazing that as the years go by, he has not diminished one bit in his energy and commitment!!

No comments about Travels with a Primate.

5 comments about Rabble-Rouser for Peace: The Authorized Biography of Desmond Tutu.

1. Journalist John Allen has given us both a highly readable, engaging biography of retired Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and of the remarkable story of South Africa's transition to true democracy. What emerges is a portrait of a complex man of God, who understands that faith that is not translated into action to advance justice is worthless. Tutu's so-called "African spirituality"--in which there are no false (Western) distinctions between the sacred and secular, the body and soul--holds great wisdom and the power to heal many of the world's deepest problems. This is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in modern history, world events, and the role of people of faith in shaping and altering the course of events in positive ways. The diminutive Tutu stands alongside the giants of our own, and any other, age.



2. Having lived in South Africa for 36 years (1954-1990), I found that there were (not surprisingly), two sides to Desmond Tutu. My namesake John Allen has given the mainly positive aspects of the man, while my own book, 'Apartheid South Africa: An Insider's Overview of the Origin and Effects of Separate Development', gives the other. For instance, the Archbishop was accused by South African President Thabo Mbeki of being a liar and a charlatan, while President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, in his better days, called Tutu 'an angry, evil and embittered little bishop'.
   I have listed much more about Mr Tutu in Apartheid South Africa, but coming from such well-informed people, statements like these should be enough to get readers thinking.
   
   John Allen



3. An excellent biography. I will echo another review that this book is highly readable. I wish I would have been tuned into the events in South Africa as a teen (or that my Social Studies teachers would have been tuned in) in the 1980s. This book helped to inform me of broad events in South Africa as well as give me an honest picture of Desmond Tutu. It is incredible how Tutu's theology informs his actions. He understands God in such a way that he could not sit safely on the sidelines. The book not only informs, but inspires. From a historians perspective, the use of primary sources throughout the book is clear. Well researched, well written! I highly recommend this book.



4. The book starts in a very dramatic fashion with the description of a confrontation between Tutu and P.W. Botha. The vividly-written drama of the meeting has a certain sense of urgency to it and immediately draws in the reader and keeps him/her enthralled throughout the book. Though a thick book, I finished it fast since I didn't want to put it down. That for me is a thumbs-up.
   
   The author leads us through Tutu's life with ease and finesse as he describes Tutu's youth, his stay in England, his slow climb up the hierarchy in the clergy in South Africa despite resistance, his forays into the anti-Apartheid movement. He not only made the international community aware of Apartheid (`apart hate') but also lobbied with them for imposing sanctions on South Africa. The book climaxes with the freeing of Mandela and the holding of elections in mid-1990s.
   
   Throughout this easy-to-read book, Allen slowly builds up a mosaic of Tutu as being strong willed, persistent, compassionate and with a sense of humour. The various layers of Tutu's personality are revealed to the reader through anecdotes and reminiscences of others.
   
   The strength of this book also becomes one its only drawback. It is extremely well-researched but then there is so much happening all the time, so many characters both well-known and less known that the book, at certain pages, becomes a muddle of facts through which the reader has to plod through. However, that doesn't take away significantly from the quality of the book.



5. My admiration for Desmond Tutu is unbounded. I've read his words, I've heard him speak, I've been inspired by his passion for the social gospel and Christian pacifism. He is indeed a prophet.
   
   That's why I'm flabbergasted at how uninspired and uninspiring John Allen's biography is. The book is clearly well-researched; there are almost 40 pages of tiny-printed endnotes. Moreover, Archbishop Tutu clearly has approved the biography; it's "authorized." Finally, Mr. Allen is a well-respected South African journalist.
   
   But, alas, the book is one of the most boring reads I've ever struggled through. Partly this is because Mr. Allen spends a great deal of time going over the minutiae of South African parliamentary politics during Tutu's lifetime--to such an extent, in fact, that it's easy for the reader to lose sight of the fact that the book is actually a biography of Tutu. All this political detail may be of great interest to South Africans, but is much less so to outsiders.
   
   But the tediousness of the book is partly because Mr. Allen's prose is just leaden. A typical example (p. 316): "In February, before the Anglican bishops met, the World Council of Churches' (WCC) Program to Combat Racism, headed by Barney Pityana, had held a consultation in Harare, Zimbabwe, and called for sanctions to be intensified. The week after the bishops' meeting in Soweto, Pityana was in London, where he heard Tutu explain on BBC radio the synod's decisions. Back at his office at the WCC in Geneva, he wrote to Tutu about 'how disappointing these positions were to us.'" After a few hundred pages pages of such prose, one begins to lose focus and interest.
   
   I suspect that the encomiums for the book from the likes of Jimmy Carter, James Forbes, and Thomas Cahill are motivated more by admiration for the subject than for the actual biography. A much more readable (although not as thorough) treatment is Stephen Gish's biography. But much better are Rev. Tutu's own works. Start with God Has a Dream and No Future Without Forgiveness.

No comments about Gregory the Great: Perfection in Imperfection (Transformation of the Classical Heritage, 14).

1 comments about Billy: The Untold Story of a Young Billy Graham and the Test of Faith that Almost Changed Everything.

1. I recently was sent a manuscript for the book Billy: The Untold Story of a Young Billy Graham and the Test of Faith that Almost Changed Everything by Bill McKay and Ken Abraham. I've read and reviewed other books about Billy Graham, but not any that restricted itself to the beginning stages of his ministry told in narrative form. This book is meant to coincide with a soon-to-be-released movie titled "Billy: The Early Years." In the book, the authors tell the story of Billy Graham's ministry through the eyes of his one-time partner, Charles Templeton. The scene is a hospital, where Templeton is living out his last days with Alzheimer's. An aging reporter, eager to revive her flagging career, has been told to interview Templeton in order to get some dirt on Graham... be it scandals, hypocrisy, or whatever. She sets up in the hospital room with a camera crew and starts the interview, trying to get Templeton to turn on his former colleague. But much to her dismay and amazement, Templeton's cynicism over what Graham believes and preaches is not enough to overcome the fact that he can find no fault in Graham. He knows that however much he belittles the beliefs he used to share, he can't deny that Graham has accomplished far more that should have been humanly possible given his background and skills.
   
   The flow of the story starts back in Graham's teen years, before he became a Christian. After going forward at a tent-style revival, he decides that he wants to attend a bible college and move into some sort of ministry work. Much to his shock and surprise, he's asked to speak in front of a church. Terrified, he covers the breath of his Bible knowledge in rapid-fire fashion... taking an entire seven minutes. But there's something there, and he's asked to speak in more locations, eventually leading to a full-time pastor position. Along the way, he meets and marries his wife Ruth, who gives up her dream of becoming a missionary to Tibet to support Graham in his ministry. As his preaching and evangelism starts to pick up speed, he's eventually teamed with Charles Templeton, an extremely popular and well-known evangelist at the time. They seem to make a good team, but Templeton's life is getting much darker...
   
   Templeton is starting to question his faith, and it comes to a head at the end of World War II. He sees a newsreel showing Holocaust survivors, and decides he can't believe in a loving God any more. Graham is crushed by his decision to leave the ministry and study at Princeton. This turning away by Templeton starts Graham down the path of questioning his own commitment. The story moves to a moment in time where Graham struggles with his fears and doubts by himself out in the woods at a conference. The ultimate outcome of that war would end up changing the face of world evangelism as we know it.
   
   Unlike some of the other books on Graham that attempts to analyze all his works and actions, this is a more story-driven treatment of his early life. I'm sure that once the movie is released, I'll find that this book follows very closely to the timing and direction of the film. Still, it's an inspirational look at someone who has committed everything to what he believes. It also shows that particular moments in time can have ramifications *far* beyond what one might expect at the moment.

No comments about Before the Dawn: Autobiographical Reflections by Eugenio Zolli, Former Chief Rabbi of Rome.

1 comments about Little Russian Philokalia: Abbot Nazarius of Valaam.

1. The wisdom contained in this book brings what we believe to be beyond our reach, down to earth in a simple, clear, understandable way. The teachings of this Orthodox Saint are livable, practical, and give a wonderful insight into Orthodox Theology, both for the "scholars" and for those seeking a better way to live in harmony with all other creatures on the path back to God.

5 comments about A Stranger in the House of God: From Doubt to Faith and Everywhere in Between.

1. This is one of those books that will long remain in my memory. I was touched with Koessler's story. Although our circumstances are different, his reflections and insights struck my soul, leaving a lasting impression.



2. John Koessler's ability to write with intelligence, eloquence, humor, and transparency made this book almost as fascinating as his personal story and his relationship with the church within it's pages. Sometimes the book read like a novel and at other times a respected devotional. Altogether, I recommend this book to anyone. I really enjoyed reading it. It's amazing to see the faithfulness of God through John's story, and the beauty of a life fully surrendered to Him. John, thank you for the time, effort, and emotional energy I imagine you must have invested in this project. It is truly appreciated by many, including myself. -Kristen Jane Anderson



3. I loved this book. Both laugh-out-loud funny and poignant, sometimes simultaneously, it's also beautifully written. John Koessler is wonderfully honest about his life, from growing up in an unbelieving and deeply troubled family, to God's drawing him to faith, his calling as a pastor, the healing that came through his wife and children, and as the title says, everywhere in between. Too often the gospel has been sold with the notion that if you will just believe in Jesus, he will make you hap-hap-happy all the time and solve all of your problems. This, of course, is nonsense, and not even the gospel. Jesus told us we should expect plenty of trouble in this life. But so often we feel that to admit difficulty is to somehow let God down, to reveal a lack of faith. So it's a relief and encouragement for a pastor, no less, to write of his sense of always feeling to some extent an outsider in church, and his moments of wondering whether he has staked his life on a mirage.
   
   What has stayed with me most is the enormous generosity of spirit with which Koessler approaches the trauma of his upbringing and his varied life experiences. Unafraid to write about the contradictions and sometimes outright wackiness of God's people, he does it with an affection and warmth that could only come from a heart transformed by the love of God. He's much farther along that path than I am, the sort of person I would like to hang around, in hopes his lovingkindness would rub off on me. Barring that possibility, the next best thing is to soak up this luminous memoir. A treat not to be missed.



4. I picked up "Stranger" and was immediately drawn in. Fans of "Blue Like Jazz" will appreciate the autobiographical memoir presented here: playful, witty, and nostalgic, Koessler refreshingly shares his life story. The stories shared are memorable, and the lessons that Koessler draws out of his life are heartfelt and authentic.
   
   The book is fast paced in a way that causes you to regretfully turn the last page, wishing for just a few more lines in this honest critique of spirituality then and now. This differs from "Blue Like Jazz" in that it is written from the mind of a man of the cloth, if you will. This change in profession will not phase you, however: Koessler's honesty and sincerity is just as welcomed as is Miller's.
   
   I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in another tale of faith that is down-to-earth. No more pie-in-the-sky memoirs, please. Here, honesty is the best policy.



5. I did not think it was possible for a man to publicly write so openly and vulnerably about his life in a way that is applicable to so many different types of people. Including intimate, and embarrassing moments, Koessler lays himself bare on the pages of his book A Stranger in the House of God. It is only through this nakedness that a sneaking suspicion that we, the readers, too have experienced the same doubts and joys in our relationship with the church creeps upon us. You will not waste your time reading this book. It is every Christian's story.

5 comments about John Calvin: Sovereign Hope (Christian Classics Bible Studies).

1. Editors Bill Arnold and Paul Williamson have enlisted an international cast of scholars; each addressing topics within their specialties. In the past twenty years a burgeoning list of titles addressing the historicity of the OT has appeared, thus making it necessary for a dictionary that addresses these particular concerns. With entries ranging from "agriculture" to "Zion traditions," DOTHB packs competently presented information cover-to-cover. One of the best dictionaries I have encountered.



2. This is an outstanding resource book for the novice or the scholar. It is well written and very easy to understand. Arnold covers the Old Tesatment thoroughly. You will not be disappointed.



3. This book is a great resource. Very deep info. It is a wealth of scholarly information and covers every topic. Amazon has the best price on these books with free shipping. What more could anyone ask for. Aslo quick service. Amazon also ships quickly to APO/FPO boxes and is still free! Awesome.



4. Contains a wealth of solid and in-depth information aimed at scholars and educated lay persons. Articles are well written (and can be a bit dense), very informative, and contain a select bibliography for further study. An indispensible tool for any serious student of the Bible.



5. Over 150 articles comprise the Dictionary of the Old Testament: Historical Books, which covers the books of Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah.
   
   Each entry is concluded by an extensive bibliography and useful cross-references to other articles in the Dictionary Of The Historical Books.
   
   A unique feature that enhances the readability and usefulness of this dictionary is that the entries are in reality "macro-essays" on larger categories or topics instead of separate smaller essays on the component parts. For example, "Absalom" will be found in the discussion
   of "David's Family," and "Anat" under "Canaanite Gods and Religion."
   
   The entries discuss and evaluate many of the key interpretative problems and the relevance of comparative data from literary, cultural, and archaeological sources that pertain to these biblical texts. Archaeological studies are used extensively throughout the entries, with numerous sites being treated separately in addition to their citation within other contexts.
   
   With a wide range of backgrounds and points of view among the 120 contributors, this dictionary contains fairly even and well-balanced entries that provide a panoramic view of the present landscape in this segment of scholarly research on the historical books. It must be noted, however, that the contributors to the dictionary do not merely present but also evaluate data. While some readers no doubt will take issue with some of the interpretations of the various contributors, the entries articulate the state of the question for these issues and topics and offer new directions and interpretative possibilities for the future.
   
   The volume concludes with three indexes: Scripture, subjects,
   and articles. Whether you are a scholar, a graduate student, or a layman looking for a summation of scholarly opinion, this volume is for you!

5 comments about A Tempered Faith: Rediscovering Hope in the Ash of Loss.

1. I began reading this book not knowing what to expect. I knew Jim for over 30 years before we was taken in the tragedy of 9/11. I only met Jennifer at their wedding 5 years before that. Having known Jim for so long I knew that his bride was a strong willed person. This book is a look into the pain and suffering that many like Jen must be suffering. It also provides a guide that can be followed to find a way out of the darkness and how to rediscover hope and faith. An excellent read!



2. If you have experienced the loss of a loved one from a sudden and untimely death, this is a must read. It would also help someone who wants to understand what this person is going through. You feel her pain and loss. Her anger with God is what many people go though when something tragic happens and the way she finds her way back is through out the book. You feel God reaching out to her and helping her deal with the loss. I lost my husband 10 years ago unexpectedly and reading this brings back all those feelings and helps me feel that I am not alone with these feelings. It renews my faith, that God was and is nearby to help when you think you can't make it any longer. That there is support from the most unexpected sources if you just open your heart to it, ask God to lead you and listen to what he has to say.

   This book also explores the difficulty of losing a loved one and having it flashed before your eyes for the rest of your life. The horror of 9/1l and the Twin Towers will be forever on the news and in everyone's mind. These families will have constant reminders. I can't begin to imagine how difficult this will be. Diana Lee.




3. A Tempered Faith: Rediscovering Hope In The Ashes Of Loss is the personal and articulate testimony of Jennifer Sands, a young widow who lost her husband in the September 11th attacks. Jennifer had to come to grips with the heart-wrenching question: If there is a God, how could He let this happen? A Tempered Faith ably presents an introspective delving into the roots of faith and hope, as well as an affirmation of God's love and learning to carry on and even find joy in the wake of bitter and unexpected grief.



4. Jennifer Sands and her husband truly believe they have found their soul mates when they meet and marry. They share a love of snorkeling and scuba diving, they tease each other as only close spouses can do, and they plan for a future life in the Cayman Islands. On September 11, 2001, the unthinkable happens when Jim is killed in his office on the 105th. floor of the World Trade Center. Jennifer is shocked beyond belief and wallows in pain and denial until the anger breaks through. She rails at God and repeatedly asks him why this had to happen. She has always been a faithful Catholic and has prayed to God daily for her husband's safety. That is the way her life has always been--she prays and God provides. What has happened to the "contract" she has with God? She relates the numbingly painful days which follow Jim's death--the empty holidays and the searing grief. Gradually she begins to see that God is sending her "angels", people of faith who help her faith grow. She is able to establish some special memorials to her husband and she begins to look outward to others and upward to God to find peace. The most revealing part of the book is the diary at the end in which she writes her innermost, unvarnished thoughts and feelings to God. It shows the metamorphosis of a woman who is focused on her own pain to one who accepts and embraces the love and comfort of God. Jennifer is truly polished and refined by the fire of this tragedy and she emerges as an example of Christian faith and forebearance in the face of unspeakable tragedy.



5. I've been wanting to write this review for a few days now. I've been struggling with what to say so that I do justice to this amazing book. Tempered Faith is a wonderful book for people who have lost a loved one, but I'd go farther than that to say that it's a must-read for anyone who thinks about the hard questions (ie, Why does a good God allow these things to happen?).

   I admired Jennifer's honesty and vulnerability in telling her story. She tells us what she was going through and what she was thinking. She shares with us her anger at God after her husband Jim dies in the World Trade Center on 9/11. Each chapter is such a treasure - and as we learn how she manages to get through each day. She tells us what things people say to her that are NOT helpful, as well as what she did find helpful. Anyone dealing with a grieving person would benefit from this book for that reason alone.

   As I came to the end of the book, I felt something was missing. I reread the title "A Tempered Faith, Rediscovering Hope in the Ashes of Loss" and was thinking that the book was a little light on faith part. Then I got to the last section, "A 9/11 Diary". Oh my goodness. This is such an amazing testimony to the power of our Lord Jesus Christ and his ability to work in our lives, drawing us closer to Himself, even in the worst of times. We get to read about every step of the way, how Jennifer grew as a child of God. I felt like I was reading something very personal (and indeed I was!), but I feel privileged to be able to see how God has worked in Jennifer's life.

   The quotes and stories at the beginning of each chapter allow us to get to know Jim Sands better, some are poignant and moving, and some are hilarious. Also, I always apprecite it when a book has a Bibliography of recommended resources - Jennifer lists books, websites and support groups.

   I am a big advocate of journaling, and hopefully many people will decide to keep a record of their spiritual journey after reading "A Tempered Faith".

   God bless you, Jennifer, and thanks so much for sharing your story with us!