Friday, September 10, 2010

Review: Cast of Characters – Max Lucado

This book is a collection of Lucado’s stories taken from many of his best selling books. It’s about the people of the bible, made real and relevant. It’s about God’s power in these people’s lives. And it’s written in a way that makes it relatable and appealing.

At the end of each chapter is a list of questions that can be used for reflection and discussion. So this book can be used as a mini bible study in small groups or on your own.

This book comes across as a “Best of” album and, while it works for music, I’m not convinced it works in a book. I found it a little disjointed at times and the lack of flow between chapters meant I couldn’t read large chunks of the book at a time, regardless of the attempt of an overall theme.

If you’ve read two or three of his books from the list these stories were taken from, then I think you’ll still enjoy it. I previously read five of the twelve books so the feeling of déjà vu popped up somewhat frequently for me which I found a tad disappointing.

Regardless, I found myself reading through the chapters with a smile. Lucado has a knack for bringing the bible stories alive. Through the simplicity of skilled storytelling, he makes great points and teaches God’s word in a way that touches the heart. This book makes a good read, and a good mini study.

3/5 stars


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.


9 comments:

Unknown said...

I enjoy Max Lucado's books. Thanks for the review. Have a blessed weekend!

Kim@stuffcould.... said...

Thanks for the review....I believe he is a talented writer
kim

RCUBEs said...

I love the simplicity that he does through his writing to bring out the Truth! God bless you sister and have a great weekend.

Karen said...

I love his way of writing...sounds like a great book!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Maria, hope you had a great weekend too.

Kim, Lucado is an amazing writer.

Rcubes, he has a way of writing relatable stories and bringing the Scriptures alive. It's a blessed gift.

Karen, me too and yes, it is a great book

Amanda said...

I remember reading "6 Hours One Friday" as a new Christian... I absolutely loved it and bought it as a gift for a few people over the years.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Amanda, Yes that's another of his brilliant books.

Witless Exposition said...

I love Max Lucado! I've had the great privilege of hearing him preach in person (if you can call a jam-packed huge sanctuary "in person"), and he preaches just like he writes.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

I would love to hear him preach. That would be so awesome. Unfortunately it would also be unlikely since I live in Australia.