The Book of God: The Bible as a Novel

I greatly enjoyed reading this book, though I wouldn't recommend it to everyone. Some of the reservations about it are well represented in the other reviews on this site. While I was reading this book I was asked about it, and I thought hard about my answer. Some Christians who would consider themselves literalists with regard to the Bible may not be fond of this book. Wangerin takes literary liberties and is very creative with the Biblical narratives and his arrangement of them. This may put some readers off. But as for me, I loved a lot of it. Taken for what it is: a literary exploration of the Bible, I think that Wangerin and his work show great respect for God and his story in the Bible. But some do not agree. The book is labeled as a novel; maybe the genre of historical novel would best describe it. The book covers thousands of years and many human generations and cultures. So in some ways the book is like an anthology. And like an anthology, some pieces were better than others. My personal favorites included the stories of Joseph, Solomon, Jeremiah, and Andrew. This book was moving to read. Having read the Bible itself cover to cover several times, I had grown used to the stories. Reading Wangerin's take on them helped me recover the vibrant human interest these stories deserve. I feel like I walked through the Biblical narratives in a more vital and personal way than I ever have before. And I am sure that my approach to the Bible itself is now enriched.

I am no stranger to the Bible, the original, actual Book of God!Having read the Bible through and through, I'm familiar with the message, the stories, the principles and God's surpassing love for us. In spite of this familiarity, the impact of Wangerin's "The Book of God" has been lasting, leaving me with a desire to go back to it time and again. The beauty and strength of this lyrical work which reflects the many facets of God echoes in my soul long after I've closed the cover. I stand with Abraham under the star filled sky and my faith in God's promises is renewed. As the Biblical history unfolds, the heart of God is revealed in full color, stretching across the expanse of Wangerin's pages, even as the stars filled that sky above Abraham's tent . I have made the choice to read this work once a year, that my God may stand bigger, my Lord more real.

There is absolutely no way to ever tell the story of the Bible in a concise, perfectly edited, all encompassing manner. What I love about Walter Wangerin's work with The Book of God is that he doesn't try to get everything into the story. This is a marvelously edited, fictionalized version of the major points of the Bible, presented in a manner which engages the reader and educates at the same time. I have read this book three times, and each time it has been a blessing to me. THIS IS NOT A NEW BIBLE! Those who are looking for a readable version of the Bible itself should try the Living Bible or another similar translation. Wangerin's work here tells the story; it is not a translation, nor is it canonical in any sense of the word. It is, however, inspired by the story of God acting in and through Creation, and in this understanding, I highly recommend The Book of God to Christians and non-believers alike who wish to get into the story of the Bible.

If you're wondering whether you should pick this book up, just do it. It's fabulous.I heard Walter Wangerin speak at a conference and was spellbound by his intoxicating story-telling. Still,the book intimidated me, so I waited two weeks to buy it. When I did, I started it and could not put it down. I've read the Bible all my life--now I understand it with a depth I never knew existed, thanks to Wangerin's brilliant,inspirational story-telling. The chapters on Christ's crucifixion alone make this a wise purchase. Get it! I think you'll be amazed at how clear the message of the Bible really is.

Growing up Catholic, the Bible scriptures were usually read to us and in a random fashion. For years I gave up on tackling the task of figuring out the Bible. This book provided the chronological context for the Bible in such a wonderful way, that it's caused me to want to read the Bible differently and more consistently. I also read this book while visiting the Holy Land. Interestingly, Mr. Wangerin's story brings the places and events to life just like our tour guide did. It was awesome! That's why I'm now searching for more of his books to buy. I finally understand why so many people refer to the Bible as the "greatest book ever written." As far as I'm concerned, anyone who has the talent to get Bible neophytes like me interested and eager to read the Bible should continue to take risks and do more of it! Thanks Mr. Wangerin!