Ages ago I intended to read "And the Shofar Blew" by Francine Rivers but didn't, for whatever reasons.
So when I saw it in the library, I checked it out and read it over the last few days. It was a difficult book to read especially at first (because of the issues it presents for its characters) and just like all my other experiences in Francine Rivers' books, for most of the book there were characters I just plain didn't like and felt completely turned off by (nearly to the point of putting down the book). It's got a lot to do with their humanity and how raw-ly she projects it. She doesn't create fairy tale characters, perfect apart from one little flaw that everyone sees past. She creates real human beings, with selfish natures and without the insight that fairy tale characters have -- her characters don't see their sins and flaws because they're too busy living. Just like real life.
I very nearly gave up on the book a third of the way through. Just like in real life, I don't like watching people make huge mistakes (I struggle with liking some movies because of this -- once I figure out what's going to happen, I don't like watching the characters hit rock bottom).
But, like all other books of hers I've read (which is all but the bible study/devotional ones), I know that I will learn things about myself and about life and Godliness if I read to the end. Even to the point of coming away from the finished book saying I liked it!!
This book was no exception -- I watched the characters in their descent to rock bottom, watched how some of them relied on themselves for strength and wisdom and how others relied on God for strength and wisdom. And another thing I love about her books is how those who rely on God don't have an easier time because of it! How true is this?! VERY! Just because we are Christians, does not mean our lives just fall into place without struggle or pain! If anything, sometimes we experience more struggle and pain because we see the evil in life and we are trying to resist temptations and resist natural human reactions and selfishness!!
So if you want a challenging read, but one that you will be thankful for afterwards (not to mention will make you grow!!) then I recommend this one... And the Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers. I also recommend any of her other books -- Leota's Garden, the Mark of the Lion series, Redeeming Love (recommend this one big style!!), Scarlet Thread and Atonement Child.
Posted by kristen at June 20, 2005 1:40 PM