"Christian Academic Writing" (Benjamin L. Merkle & Adrianne Cheek Miles)

TITLE: Christian Academic Writing: Twelve Practices and Principles for Becoming a Successful Writer
AUTHOR: Benjamin L. Merkle & Adrianne Cheek Miles
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2024, (pages).
 

Is academic writing only for academics? No. Is it limited only to people with writing experience? Not really. Is it difficult to even write to publish? Difficult but not impossible. Writing is hard work. Getting it published is even harder. Yet, we should not be deterred by anything difficult. Let our passion for sharing our knowledge and experiences inspire us to write. One cannot be a successful writer without first becoming a writer. Read widely but also write frequently. Just like the title says, this book looks at 12 "practices and principles" to encourage Christian writing as an academic writing. Although both authors come from different backgrounds, their purpose for writing this book is similar: To encourage Christians to write and share their knowledge and expertise with the public. It is not a how-to-write book. It is a book that gives "practical and proven advice" to encourage writers to write. Professors, pastors, teachers, anyone with advanced degrees, or those with lots of working experience can benefit from this resource which aims to bring more people into the writing fold. They do not mince their words when they say writing is hard work. Indeed it is. Sometimes, becoming too distracted by any perceived difficulty can put off any aspiring writer. 

"Composition as Conversation" (Heather M. Hoover)

TITLE: Composition as Conversation: Seven Virtues for Effective Writing
AUTHOR: Heather M. Hoover
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2023, (176 pages).
 

In general, there are four ways in which we can communicate. We can read and write. We can also hear and speak. All of these ways help us to better comprehend and converse with others. However, academic writing is a different beast altogether. It can be dry or downright boring. As the author points out: "academic writing should cultivate lively discussion and promote critical and creative thinking." How do we do that? Author-Professor Heather Hoover poses this to her students, whose feedback led to this book. The purpose is to utilize the power of words to inspire others. She highlights seven ways in which writing leads to "conversational virtues." She begins with the basic task to "Be Curious" by asking appropriate questions. These questions are often open-ended and need to demonstrate a genuine desire to want to connect with others. Asking good questions can help but its effectiveness can be limited. It requires a kind of asking that shows forth a genuine interest to hear the responses. Such a task requires some level of "humility, risk, and commitment." She lists various ways to help us build our vocabulary of interesting questions. The second virtue is that of attentiveness. She points out the difference between writing for writing's sake versus writing for others' sake.

"A Fruitful Life" (Yahaira Ramos)

TITLE: A Fruitful Life Journaling Devotional: A 45-day Journey Through the Fruit of the Spirit
AUTHOR: Yahaira Ramos
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing, 2022, (256 pages).
 

What does a fruitful life look like? A successful career? A large and growing family? A successful project? These might be the criteria according to the world. Rather than simply flowing along with what the world tells us, it is important for believers to understand what the Bible is showing them about fruitfulness. This journal cum devotional helps us to keep our understanding of what fruitful means in the light of Galatians 5:22-23, or the passage that we often call, "Fruit of the Spirit." Author Yahaira Ramos leads us through the nine attributes over a period of nine weeks. For each week, we can read reflections about the particular fruit in question, meditate on each of them, and write down our thoughts and learning. The pattern is similar for each week.

• Day 1: How God demonstrates the attribute
• Day 2-5: Ways in which we could manifest the fruit
• Day 6-7: Days of Personal Reflection

Written like a devotional, readers are encouraged to take time to read, reflect, and record their thoughts and insights into this book itself. By repeating the same theme each day for a week, one allows the teachings on the fruit in question to sink in. In our modern world of haste and rush, it is not easy to be still and recognize the presence of God in our lives. People rush in such a way that sometimes they rush God. A key understanding is that fruits take time to grow. They need to be cultivated. They need to be watered. The Holy Spirit will give the increase. 

"Charitable Writing" (Richard Hughes Gibson and James Edward Beitler III)

TITLE: Charitable Writing: Cultivating Virtue Through Our Words
AUTHOR: Richard Hughes Gibson and James Edward Beitler III
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2020, (248 pages).

We have been told that love is the greatest. The Bible says so. Our culture also asserts that. We all believe so. We are taught to love our neighbour. We all want love but the truth is, love is often more easily said than done. This applies equally to the field of writing. Authors Richard Gibson and James Beitler helps us understand what it means to apply the expression of love in our writings, via charitable writing. Being a Christian is not just about speaking or living out the good news in public. It is also in how we write and express our love in writing. It is also a way of spiritual formation. It is discipleship. It is using our writing to paint the art of love. The central theme of this book is that "charitable writers listen humbly, argue lovingly, and keep the time of writing hopefully." Without going into the details of how to write or not to write, the focus is on the "big picture," to imagine, to relate, to respond, and how to express our neighbourliness in our writing. In other words, we write not for the sake of writing but for the purpose of showing we care and we love. These can be done through applying "spiritual threshold concepts," which are concepts to help integrate academic disciplines, including the discipline of writing. They engage the wisdom of ancient as well as modern writers to help us along. Through imitation, we learn from the practitioners in the past. Through practice, we apply the process over and over again to solidify the habit. This dual rhythm of imitation and practice are incorporated into the three key parts of the book. I appreciate how the authors remind us once again that writing is not only social and spiritual, it is also communal. The best way to integrate all of these is to begin with humility. Using art and images to supplement this manual about writing charitably, the authors show us the significance of our humble words. It begins with "humble listening." This is most appropriate because charity begins with humility. Being charitable needs to begin with us receiving charity from others. We are reminded that while most writers would write alone, there are wise companions that we can tap upon. Nicolas Frances calls writing a social activity. We cite others. We build upon the works of others. There is also the spiritual component to it when writers pray before writing. 

"More Than Words" (Erin Wathen)

TITLE: More than Words: 10 Values for the Modern Family
AUTHOR: Erin Wathen
PUBLISHER: Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2017, (176 pages).

What are family values? Before you attempt to answer that, think again. Is it a traditional or postmodern interpretation? Does it depend on which generation you come from? What kind of family are we talking about? These questions must be answered before we start talking about 'family values.' Our world has changed. With faith matters increasingly becoming politicized, even this popular phrase has become a battleground of opinions and political positions. Some would say that the traditional Christian interpretation is increasingly tainted with homophobia, misogyny, bigotry, and so on. Others lament that family has become meaningless in a relativistic world, absentee parents, and broken relationships. In a way, everybody have their own sense of ranking which value is more important. Behind this ranking belies a person's presupposition. So I decide to find out where this author is coming from. Concerned with how public opinion are increasingly negative about the phrase 'family values,' Erin Wathen begins with an attitude of understanding and learning. She writes:

"In this book, we’ll explore the language of a better way; a more life-giving way; a way that leaves room for creativity, for questions, for imperfection, and for a much broader view of what it means to be 'family.'"

"75 Masterpieces Every Christian Should Know" (Terry Glaspey)

TITLE: 75 Masterpieces Every Christian Should Know: The Fascinating Stories behind Great Works of Art, Literature, Music, and Film
AUTHOR: Terry Glaspey
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2015, (368 pages).

A masterpiece is a great artistic achievements created by ordinary people. Like how Rembrandt's Prodigal Son painting enveloped the depths of Henri Nouwen, the author has experienced deep fascination with not just art but music, literature, stained glass, paintings, film, and many creative works like woodcut, symphony, building architecture, poems, even children's stories. The author is a writer who enjoys the beauty of God's creation and the handiworks throughout history. Beginning with his visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, he describes how he was captivated by the classic and modern masterpieces. Curious about the origins and how the work was made, he becomes very impressed with the stories behind the paintings. The more things he finds, the more fascinated he becomes. In wanting to share his experience, he goes through his library of resources and experiences to inspire more people to appreciate the masterpieces. Several factors are used to decide on which masterpiece to use.  First, it has to be "universally esteemed" by both Christians and non-Christians. Second, they had to stand up well through time, that people will keep coming back as new things can always be learned from them. Third, they are timeless and can speak to people regardless of cultural background and national boundaries. Like trailers to entice people to watch movies, Glaspey starts with the paintings in the Roman catacombs, how Christian art had to go underground during the Roman persecution. He shows us how the Gregorian chant first begun and why it has enchanted the imaginations of many. The Chartres Cathedral is chosen as one with many beautiful stained windows each telling a story in themselves. He calls it a "visual book." Dante's Divine Comedy is a spiritual autobiography. Although not much is known about Andrei Rublev, who created the famous Holy Trinity icon, Glaspey is able to describe the significance of icons and the history of the controversies over their use. Michelangelo's The Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel shows the famous artist more as a sculptor rather than a painter. The three central pieces of work all reflect Michelangelo's commitment to faith. Several hymns are also selected in this volume. Martin Luther's A Mighty Fortress is Our God proves to be Luther's strength as he prepares for a tense debate at the Diet of Worms in 1521. John Newton's Amazing Grace and Isaac Watts' When I Survey the Wondrous Cross are also mentioned. The great novels include Alexandr Solzhenitsyn's Cancer Ward and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

"Go Tell It" (Jim Killam and Lincoln Brunner)

TITLE: Go Tell It: How--and Why--to Report God's Stories in Words, Photos, and Videos
AUTHOR: Jim Killam and Lincoln Brunner
PUBLISHER: Chicago, IL: Moody Publishers, 2014, (176 pages).

You have a great story to tell. You have spent years serving faithfully. You have also witnessed many beautiful moments of how God has worked mightily. Unfortunately, your story is untold. Your witness is hidden somewhere. Maybe, you want to tell it but you lack the know-how. What if there is a way to tell it, that more people can be blessed? What if there is a way to spread the good news so that God's Name and Work can be shared more broadly?

Enters this very helpful book about Christian journalism. Just like the gospel writer, Luke who aims to record down meticulously the works of Christ, we too can learn to exercise the Great Commission through faithful and accurate story telling and gospel reporting. We can learn to report what God has been doing, what he had done, and what is he up to. We learn about how details can be very important in the telling of any story. We learn to choose the most significant parts in order to strengthen our focus. We need to hone in on the central question, and to report the truth. Yet, this truth reporting has to be done sensitively especially in places where mission work can be risky, even dangerous. The authors provide some guidelines such as:

• Understanding the contexts of the mission
• Publish wisely, with guidance from the people from the field
• Adopt the Three Strands Rule: Name, Location, Ministry

At the same time, we are reminded that our world is filled with journalism that is more selling rather than telling. Understand the ethical implications. Learn to observe without obstructing; reporting without falsifying; and crediting God for what God has done. Know that freedoms differ from place to place. The clue is that Christian reporting is less about telling people what to think or do, but more about showing people the way far enough so that they can find the truth and act on the truth themselves.

There are tips on how to report bad news or "monsters," conflicts, and then search for universal themes. The main elements of any story include the central character, the conflict, the resolution, the biblical themes, and the story of grace and redemption. Other kinds of reporting include interviewing where one seeks accuracy on the one hand, and maintaining a cordial relationship on the other. Stories also need scenes in which the story plots are fleshed out. Photography and audio-visual aids are discussed too. A nice camera is not sufficient. One also needs some technical skills of a photographer and an eye for the relevant details. Movies must tell a story.

Christian journalism is vital. Good journalistic skills by Christians are essential if the truth is to be shared and spread throughout the world. This book is a primer for any budding journalist who wants to capture stories of the world from a Christian perspective. I am not a fan of using "Christian" as a prefix to things or activities. Personally, I prefer to distinguish between good vs bad journalism rather than Christian vs non-Christian journalism. For some of the best news reporting are not necessarily Christian. Some of the worst reporting can be done by Christians. The aim is to enable everyone everywhere to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. While there are instances where stories need bridges and links to move from one point to another, we need to maintain a truthful stance, to use whatever we have truthfully to communicate the truth accurately and faithfully. For Christians, the motivation toward journalism is a noble one. It is precisely because the gospel comes to us through the Word, we need to learn to use words, and every possible reporting tools to witness the hand of God working in this world. It is a calling.

I was hoping to read more about reporting in social media, blogging, and the new media opportunities but was disappointed that the book stopped short on that. Hopefully, in future editions, the author will incorporate more of these new technologies and their implications on modern reporting and journalism. That said, this book has refreshed my own zeal on the importance of journalism. Good journalism that is.

Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me courtesy of Moody Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Letters and Life: On Being a Writer, on Being a Christian" (Bret Lott)

TITLE: Letters and Life: On Being a Writer, On Being a Christian
AUTHOR: Bret Lott
PUBLISHER: Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2013, (192 pages).

What is life like as a writer, in particular a Christian writer? It is not simply writing that has Christian label on it. It is also not primarily about an author who happens to be a professed Christian. Describing literary fiction as writings that confront us as human people and to cause introspection and reflection, this book examines both the "letters" of authors as well as the "life" of the authors themselves. Do Christian writers believe that God is working through their writings?

Right from the start, the author's awareness of God is as simple as praying for enough gum for an oversubscribed children's program, or sufficient T-shirts for all. On the one hand, one finds it hard to explain what is happening. On the other hand, there is something inside that seems to tell us that God is behind all the supernatural acts. Letters is about what is written. Life is about reflecting what has been written, and how our own person plays out in the open field of life. For the sake of clarity, Lott helpfully defines some of the important words, like epiphany, enlightenment, compassion, even paganism. He reflects on Christian publishing industry, how it strives to balance between financial sustainability and stated mission; the place of novels and life.

He reflects on the relationship between the artist and the public. For the artist, it is a time of being blessed to bless others. From the crafts described in Exodus 31, Loft reflects on the different skill sets among Israel who combine their talents to build the tabernacle. It is an act of worship that comprises creativity, diversity, shrouded in activities to honour God. Lott argues that we relate with the public through our faithful proclamation of God in our lives through our works, and for writers, through their literary or artistry skills.  Instead of writing in a manner that says: "What Would Jesus Write?" we ought to adopt a mode of "I know who I am" and to let that identity, seen through the richness of this relationship with God overflow through our works of art.

Precision is an art. Aim to write something that challenges ourselves to go beyond our perceived limitations. More importantly, precision's starting point is something real, preferably from our own experiences. Writers too can face moments in which they question if their works are truly making a difference at all. Lott urges patience, for precision writing is about waiting too. Then, there is the part about writing that influences people, just like how the questioner can influence the answers, or the observer influence the ones being observed. Lott makes a criticism of "Creative Writing" workshops, accusing them of being most "unreal." The irony is, it is less impromptu and more restrictive in terms of creativity. It is like taking a very private matter into public spheres. In other words, such workshops alter the results and make it less authentic than desired. Truth is, creative writing can only be cultivated through a life of continuous writing. A good workshop is one that gets out of the way between budding writers and their writings. Using the example of Flannery O'Connor, the "de facto patron saint of creative writing," readers are treated to a good dose of the power of O'Connor's writings. Like the "dethroning of the writer," a kind of the writer must decrease that the writings may increase. O'Connor is also a testimony of humble writing, as it is quite often she is condescending upon her own self, making fun of self in order to bring out the influence of the writings. Just like the art must be above the artist, so the writings about the writer. Humility is the essence of good creative writing, the kind that touches readers and lives. More importantly, for Christian writers, it is about letting our writings exalt the divine God.

So What?

I was blown away by the insightful observations of what creative writing is, and what it can generate. It is so true that writing needs to grow out of the seed of personal experiences, and be bathed with much humility and precision. In many ways, writing is about telling the story of self, in words. The three words that the author had written on a student's paper, "will have had" is a delightful invitation for me to ponder about the future, the present, and the past, all in three words. As I see Lott taking these three words personally to share about his late father, I am also led to think about my own father, who had passed away three years ago. Writing is not about words. It is about storying one's life. I learn that it is necessary to have literary mentors, just like the writer's respect for Flannery O'Connor, Raymond Carver, John Gardner,  and others. Writing is not simply about putting words on paper. It is about putting our life in black and white, in a very colourful world. Good writers will not only aim to write well, they will write as often as possible, with respect for life, for people, and for words. More importantly, even as writers seek to write as best as they can, to put right stuff as much as possible, there will also come a time where they need to confess they have been wrong. Humility is about learning. It is about admitting we are wrong when we learn of it. It is about keeping humble even when we are right.

Thank you Bret Lott, for reminding writers at large, how important it is not to be worried about quantity, but to concentrate on quality; not to be worried about the lives of other people, but to let our writings direct any anxieties to God above, to shine a light into the crevices of our soul, that through our writing, our soul lights up to bless others, especially our readers. May our writing shine a torch of clarity and hope for readers all over the world.

Rating: 5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Words for Readers and Writers: Spirit-Pooled Dialogues" (Larry Woiwode)

TITLE: Words for Readers and Writers: Spirit-Pooled Dialogues
AUTHOR: Larry Woiwode
PUBLISHER: Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2013, (240 pages).

This collection of essays puts the value back into words for readers to appreciate, and for writers to create. As we continue to adopt unabated, the digital medium for all kinds of communications for literary work or leisure, it is increasingly important to realize that words are not simply binary bits to be turned off and on. There are powerful meanings to ponder. There are insights to be held in wonder. Words is the water that gives the river its stream of life. It is the fuel that energizes way we live. It enriches human communications. Woiwode in this book seeks to inject a greater appreciation for the use of words for several groups of people: readers, writers, and other users like speakers and listeners. Using a mental picture of two drawers (inner and outer) to touch on a four-drawer folder (self, memory, interviewers, and editors). The essays are then grouped in three parts; how words are used; how users use words; and the different kinds of users of words.

Part One is about the "uses of words." It deals with the questions surround what words are for and how they are being used. Woiwode explores the way words are used in family relationships and how it contributes to unity. There is a bond that stories and histories are weaved through the use of words. They can increase intimacy. In litigation circles, words are dependent on who is speaking it. For instance, in a courtroom, the litigator (or plaintiff) is usually referred to as the second person; the defendant the first; with the judge and the court as the third person. Woiwode explores the role of poetry, even hinting at the longevity of age-old poetry that will outlive even the hottest technology of today.Words can also be used in autobiographical sketches, being used for both fiction as well as non-fictional purposes. Of particular interest is spirituality, where Woiwode centers the place of faith, and how words point one toward spiritual matters. Words amplify meaning. They lead us to appreciate the mysteries of the spiritual world. Readers are urge to re-tell history and put it in the forefront of Christian Education. One essay includes an interview with the author with IMAGE magazine, on how a writer visualizes a mental image inside, and to use words to draw them out. Such drawing out of an inner picture can also be done through metaphors like e-mail, simile, medium, play, and of course word pictures. Words are so powerful that at one point, Woiwode even cautions writers not to usurp the place of God in their writing.

Part Two is a fascinating look at the author's 50-year journey from childhood to his adult years. It is a process of learning, fine-tuning, polishing, and perfecting the use of words. There are users like the publishing industry, on the relationship between authors, editors, and their publishers. Woiwode introduces his appreciation for authors like William Maxwell whose literary brilliance was discovered late, and how his editing skills display a knack for clarity and simplicity. On Tolstoy, the author notices a passionate fight for truth, and how Tolstoy displays his dislike for power and arrogance of rulers, by using his novels to subvert tyranny and abuse. There is Vladimir Nabokov, the Russian writer (Surin), who has great love for his mother and his patriotism for his country, and with a keen awareness of a world beyond this world. There is the reflection of the Russain martyr, Aleksandr Men's play of words and meaning of "martyrs who have lived" which contrasted sharply with popular usage of "martyrs who have died," whose writings point unabashedly to what it means to live for Christ.

Part Three is an exhibition of the power and versatility of words in the world of literature, ethics, faith, morality, human rights, aesthetics, beauty, science, writing, and free writing. What intrigues me in the final chapter is how the author gives a profound take on what it means to write unhindered, and unedited. In an A-Z framework of writings, he begins with a description of his inner thoughts while sleeping in the subway, his journey to meet a well-known editor, his observations of ordinary life going on around him as he makes the journey, and ends with a terse note about his essays that were written in one sitting, end up becoming the first story that a magazine has accepted for publication without a single edit.

My Thoughts

Who am I to review such a deep and insightful book by Larry Woiwode? Who am I to talk about the martyrs, the spiritual writers, and the many great writers of the world? At one end, I remain at a distance clapping away in amazement at some of the masters of words. At the other, I risk being ridiculed of trying to wear a holier-than-thou hat of a reviewer. Thus, I stand trapped between astonishment of a grateful admirer and trepidation of a critical reviewer. As an admirer, seldom have I come across a book that I take, turn over, and ponder at various points of the contents. It is one thing to be well read in good books. It is another to be well read in great literature. Larry Woiwode has given readers a glimpse of the world of how words can inject life into mundane matters, how passions can be set free, how far words can reach, and how words bring beauty out of ordinary life. The book concludes not with a thud but a ripple that creates waves of reflective moments. One of them is how we in the world have unwittingly edited life from authenticity to plasticity. It reminds me of how society in general, in a world that seeks perfection and polished work, often fails to acknowledge the beauty of the ordinary. If only we allow the ordinary to grow its best self, and minimize the editing of ordinary life, people will be less prone to wear the skin of others, and will be more willing to be themselves. One of the things I appreciate is Woiwode's reminder for writers.

"If you work as a writer or reporter you must meet each person with the grace of openness, as Jesus did, seasoned by compassion, rather than with a preconceived or judgmental outlook. You think you're speaking to an ugly thief or snarling shopping-cart collector when you may be entertaining an angel" (176-7)

If I must critique, I must say that this book may not reach a wide audience or pander to the wishes of the popular genre. Just like the way Woiwode refers to Marylynne Robinson's essay on science putting down religion, our world dominated by Darwinistic pragmatism will put down any creative attempt toward aesthetic beauty, especially if such attempts do not bring in bigger bucks or become a Youtube phenomena. No. Books like this will be a hard sell for a world addicted to fast facts and abbreviated communications. In fact, words that are hurried will tend to short circuit the natural and preferred progression of human development in the cultivation of literary and living beauty. Sigh. That's the world we live in. Yet, there is hope. Let those who have ears listen. Let those who have eyes see. Let those who are willing to pause periodically from the crazy mundane world, and to ponder, to wonder, and to appreciate life, through the world of words. For behind every use of word is a story waiting to be told. If only we take time. Beware. This book is not to be speed-read, but to be gently savoured. The essay format of the book will certainly help.

Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Acceptable Words" (Gary D. Schmidt and Elizabeth Stickney, eds)

TITLE: Acceptable Words: Prayers for the Writer
AUTHOR: Gary D. Schmidt and Elizabeth Stickney, eds.
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2012, (206 pages).

This is a fine literary gem. Gems I must say. Filled with psalms, hymns, and spiritual writings, the editors Gary Schmidt and Elizabeth Stickney have brought together some of the best prayers and poems to nourish the writer's soul, and to re-invigorate a desire for God in prayer. The quotes throughout the book gives readers many moments to ponder about life, about faith, about creativity, and God. There are at least seven ways to use this book.

Firstly, it can be used as a tool to sharpen our writings, to be aware of our awareness, and to focus our attention on the big idea. Too many times, writers meander in many other directions in the drive to overcome the writer's block.

Secondly, it reminds me that writers are readers too, and there are so many good pieces to read here! In fact, good writers are also good readers. This book compiles some of the best writings, from theologians like Thomas Aquinas, C.S. Lewis, and William Barclay; hymn writers like Fanny Crosby, Charles Wesley, and Isaac Watts; philosophers like Soren Kierkergaard and G.K. Chesterton; preachers like Henry Ward Beecher, Peter Marshall, and D.L. Moody; classic writings from John Donne, T.S Eliot, Robert Frost, as well as contemporary writers like Madeline L'Engle, Henri Nouwen, Luci Shaw, and many more.

Thirdly, it is a good reference book to spur creativity. The book is structured in seven perspectives, each addressing a specific area important to the writer. Like a camera, one can use the book as like a zoom in lens to observe the world around, to study it, and to ponder on it. One can also zoom out from the details, and to start the creativity process to expand the vision, to let the Word inform our thinking, to discover joy in our writings, to pray, and to offer our work back to God. It allows the writer-reader to plunge into the book straightaway without having to read from cover to cover before gaining any benefit.

Fourthly, it is a book of prayers. There are biblical passages to direct our attention back to God. There are many wonderful moments in which readers can share in the spiritual moments of the reflections and writings of the individual contributors. One can even use this book as part of a personal spiritual retreat. Some of the poems and writings can appear simple but hold immense depth. Simple words can hide deep insights.

Fifthly, this book can be a teaching device for educators. At the beginning of each chapter, there is a short introduction that describes the theory and many literary tips for the avid writer. It blends in many things. From art to prose, from prayer to praise, there is something for nearly everything.

Sixth, it is a wonderful book to appreciate life in general. In our technological and scientific world, too many of us approach life with a problem solving paradigm, seeing everything as a problem that needs to be solved. Unfortunately, life is not about solving problems. Life is about living. Appreciating art, music, dance, and literary works remain one of the most powerful ways to demonstrate our humanity. In fact, we can reflect the Creator God in our creativity.

Seventh, it encourages readers to write, and writers to read. In other words, it enables both reading and writing to inform each other. When I read a touching passage or a poem, I cannot wait to put down the book to write something. When I write something, and in my moments of pausing, I cannot wait to pick up the book to read something.

As a writer, I must say that this book is one of the best books for the writer's soul. The editors Schmidt and Stickney have given us writers a powerful gift, an early Christmas present. If you are a writer, this book is a must have. If you know someone who loves to write, give that person this book. They will probably give you a big warm hug, and if not, a prompt electronic kiss.


Rating: 5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Still" (Lauren F. Winner)

TITLE: Still: Notes on a Mid-Faith Crisis
AUTHOR: Lauren F. Winner
PUBLISHER:New York, NY: HarperOne, 2012, (248 pages).

This book is raw honesty littered with sparks of creative wit. It distills the author's search for personal authenticity and divine spirituality by setting oneself in a profound stage called the "middle." Beginning with a painful recollection of events and emotions surrounding her crumbling marriage, she opens herself up with her pen, meandering through rivers of critical thoughts and practical theologies. She experiences the lows of being alone again as well as the highs of being in Church, enjoying the God she loves. She encounters walls of questions that forces her to seek out ways to overcome her despair and doubts. Toward the end, the reader can see a struggling author trying to weld together the broken pieces of her relationships, her religious beliefs, and settles in a resolving-yet-not-resolved "mid-faith" position. Yet, these beginnings and the ends are not the definitive vocabulary of this book. What makes this book especially gripping and enduring is her journey to the middle, around the middle, and from the middle. In a nutshell, this book had me at the middle.

There are three reasons why this book is worth reading. Firstly, it is raw honesty that opens up a can of thoughts that surrounds a person's struggle. Some people use food, fun, and frolic to deal with their breakups. Others venture into new age spirituality to escape from their pain. Not Winner. She lets herself be embraced by the warmth and enduring love of friends. I appreciate her personal struggle through church going.

"Sometimes I cannot say much about why I go to church other than what people who go to the gym say: I always feel better once I'm there; I feel better after; it is always good for me, not good in a take-your vitamins way, in a chidingly moralistic way, but in a palpable way. Perhaps to say this is to turn religion into therapy. But church is therapy, that is one of many things it is, and as my friend Mike once told me, the real problem lies not in recognizing the therapeutic balm in the gospel;the real problem is going through life thinking that the health you need can be found anywhere else." (33-4)

Secondly, she lingers on thoughts of God and her faith, through Church going, through her struggles with anxiety, through literature of John Updike, Emily Dickinson, and Anne Sexton, the Biblical characters, as well as the spiritual masters. She indulges her fondness for spirituality in both her spiritual conversations with her spiritual director, as well as her reflections on the spiritual masters of old. Sprinkled throughout the book, there are snippets of spiritual insights from Frances de Sales, Margaret Funk, the desert fathers, Richard Rohr, Thomas Merton, Augustine, and many more. What I find most fascinating is her weaving of her Jewish upbringing and Christian teaching, culminating in a very nuanced understanding of biblical characters and stories. One example is her description of Purim in the book of Esther. Here are some of her very memorable reflection of how the Book of Esther can also be called the book of the hidden God.

"I wonder: when Jesus comes back, when God consummates God's program, when redemption is complete, will it be possible for God to hide? I wonder if the trick is not drinking until you can't tell the difference between Mordecai and Haman, but until you can't tell the difference between God's hiddenness and God's presence, or perhaps until you can't tell the difference between God's hiddenness and God's absence, for that finally is the question, that is the anguish - to abide in God's hiddenness is one thing, to abide in God's absence is altogether something else." (115)

Finally, my favourite part of the book lies in her gentle and firm squeezing out of the meaning of the middle voice. Such a mood effectively counters the impatience of a culture of immediate gratification, and prepares one to enter into a humble spirit that rises in anticipation of God and what God is about to say to us. Such a voice forces us to go through the discipline of the middle, the journey being taken. It makes us question the way we allow ourselves to be locked in by worldliness through easy boredom and frivolous busyness. It pushes us to appreciate the sacraments, the rituals of Church, surprising revelations of Scripture, and the warmth of friends. For a world that prides itself as the main thing, Winner has reminded us again that all of us are small characters trying to make some sense in our small ways what it actually means to live on earth. Most importantly, from a middle position, we begin to realize that we are only a small person in a world made by God, and just like the Jewish day that begins in sunset and culminates in sunrise, believers in Christ who begins their struggles in darkness will see the light more and more.

"If English had a middle voice, I would use it to speak of prayer: I would let the middle remind me that I am changed by this action, by these words, this supplicant's posture; I would let the middle tell me, too, how there is something about me that allows the action to take place - my desire, my endless need. And I will let the middle bespeak the hidden agent, the One who animates my prayer; though undisclosed, though sometimes even forgotten. If I could make English speak a middle voice, I would use it to tell you what little I know about belief, about worship, about impatience, about love." (157)

This book is Lauren F. Winner at her finest.

Rating: 5 stars of 5.

conrade

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"The Christian Writer's Market Guide 2012" (Jerry B. Jenkins)

TITLE: The Christian Writer's Market Guide 2012 - Your comprehensive guide for getting published.
AUTHOR: Jerry B. Jenkins
PUBLISHER: Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2011, (556 pages).

This is both a resource as well as a reservoir for anyone interested or involved in the Christian publishing market.  It is comprehensive as it covers the A to Z of Christian publishing. Though written with the American Christian publishing market in mind, it is an extremely useful resource to help any budding writer or anyone interested to know about Christian book publishing market. Part One covers a huge list of resources for book publishing. Part Two contains lots of useful information on periodical publishers. Part Three dives into the 'Specialty Markets' like greeting cards, DVDs, games, software, and other things not covered in the book or periodical list. Part Four is a useful compendium of resources for budding writers as well as established authors, or simply anyone interested in writing. It gives a list of Christian writers' workshops throughout the United States, with a small list of Canadian-based writing organizations or writing clubs. The book is filled with contact information about literary agents, publisher addresses, email contacts, and very specific niches each organization offers.

Every Christian writer serious about getting published needs to get this book. With more than 380 publishers, 550 periodicals, and plenty of contacts for literary agencies, and so on, this is the encyclopedia of Christian publishing for North America. What makes this edition stands out is not only the updated contacts of the players in the Christian publishing market. There is market analysis of how each publisher is doing broken down into how many books have been published per year. This enables the reader to discern which publisher is the one to choose. There is a helpful listing of current topics popular with publishers. This helps the reader to gather a snapshot of trends in writing.

Even with the rising popularity of ebooks, and the continued rumors that publishing is going to be dead sooner than later, this book proves once again that publishing is very much alive. The electronic age has not diminished the traditional ways of publishing. It has only altered the WAY publishing is done.

As a quick reference, this book gives me access to information super fast. As a collection of current market trends, this book gives me ideas about which are the popular topics that I can write about. At the same time, it gives me an idea of what topics have not been covered.The main peeve I have is that the softcover tends to be easily worn out. Apart from this, this book is a treasure house of information. Not only does it give a huge array of choices, both large and small publishers, it gives anyone with a writers' block lots of ideas how to kick start and progress the writing journey.

This book makes an excellent Christmas gift for people whom you know loves to read, to write, to blog, or simply to get ideas for literary appreciation.

Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is supplied to me free by Tyndale House Publishers without any obligation for a positive review. The comments provided above are freely my own.