Long and winding. Don't read it if you're not interested in philosophy, psychology and politics! I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narration...moreLong and winding. Don't read it if you're not interested in philosophy, psychology and politics! I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narration. (less)
The audiobook is well narrated, but the story is mixed. It's extremely well researched and even though it's quite old, the technology doesn't seem out...moreThe audiobook is well narrated, but the story is mixed. It's extremely well researched and even though it's quite old, the technology doesn't seem outdated. This is probably because most of the science is about Mars and people. There's a lot of psychology and introspection in this book. And a lot of politics, whichis part of the fascination - how Mars colonization would affect earth, and how that would then impact the Mars colony. But it also tends to ramble along quite a bit. I felt like it could have been 2/3 the length. Still, I bought the sequel. This is hard science fiction and needs some diligence from the reader, but it really transports you to a future on the Red Planet.(less)
Although it's, ironically, longer than it needs to be, I was able to read this book quickly and glean the essence of it. The authors share their resea...moreAlthough it's, ironically, longer than it needs to be, I was able to read this book quickly and glean the essence of it. The authors share their research into the correlation between simplicity and vibrancy in the churches. In essence, do a few things and do them well. The Gospel is simple and it makes sense that the Church should be as well. Worth a read for anyone in leadership who feels their church is plateaued or is struggling to keep up with a chaotic schedule of programs.(less)
Biblical hermeneutics is a tricky business. For Bible believing Christians there is an acute awareness that we're not just dealing with any old text,...moreBiblical hermeneutics is a tricky business. For Bible believing Christians there is an acute awareness that we're not just dealing with any old text, but the sacred word of God. Generally, there are a broad range of principles that Protestant interpreters more or less agree on, even if they don't agree on the interpretation that results. One of these principles is interpreting Scripture in the light of its historical and cultural context. This is a principle John Walton relies on heavily in "The Lost World of Genesis One." It is both a strength and weakness of the book.
Walton's premise is that the worldview of the Ancient Near East that Israel was a part of was more concerned with functional questions about the world than, what we would call, scientific questions. Essentially, they didn't care so much how the world was created but why. He also argues that the Hebrew word for creation, as often as not (he argues more often than not, although some say he overstates his case), has a functional rather than material meaning and dives into a number of other exegetical considerations to build his case. His conclusion is that the 6 days of creation are not an account of material origins that are in any way relevant to science. Rather, they are an inauguration event where God prepares the cosmos as His temple and then takes up residency in his 'control room'.
Consequently, he argues, there is no conflict between science and Bible, including evolution. He only touches briefly on the identity of Adam and Eve (which he takes literally) and the origins of death. In response to the assertion that there could be no death before Adam, he argues that death was no introduced in the garden, immortality was never attained.
In the latter part of the book Walton wades into the public education debate in the US about teaching evolution and creation in school. It is interesting but probably not so relevant outside the US (at least as pertains to public education).
Walton gives a refreshing insight into Genesis 1. He draws on his expertise and recent scholarship to open up new possibilities. If he is correct, this view resolves the tension between science and faith, arguing that we can leave science for the scientists and theology for the theologians without having to pit the one against the other. The cosmic temple inauguration view also provides a theocentric view of the universe that denies the possibility of de facto deism and requires us to see God as continually and intimately involved in his creation.
A potential weakness with his thesis is what may be seen as a novel approach to Genesis. We may well be sceptical about interpretations that have been 'lost' for millennia but, yay for us, God has restored in this generation. And yet, if we are not open to the insights gained from archeology and historical studies, or concerned with genuinely engaging cultural questions, then we may as as well freeze theology in the 2nd century and scrap the gains of the 2000 years in our understanding of God and his ways.
"The Lost World of Genesis" is written in an accessible style that has something to offer the scholar and layperson alike. (less)
I found this an enjoyable listen over all (I listened to the Audible audiobook version), however the writing style is is quaint, highly embellished an...moreI found this an enjoyable listen over all (I listened to the Audible audiobook version), however the writing style is is quaint, highly embellished and somewhat stilted to 21st century ears. In fact, I can't believe people actually spoke like that in the 30's. The narrator does an excellent job of interpreting it, reflecting the formal tone but embellishing with good characterisation. The formality of the narrator's tone took some getting used to it, but once I realised it reflected the writing style, I appreciated it far more.
The science is quite outdated - pre-space travel and pre-nuclear trying to imagine both. It must have been thrilling when it was written and while even to layman's ears is obviously wrong, it doesn't detract from the story and the search for a suitable casement for the nuclear reactor adds to the tension. A novel set in the 21st century would be very different, but probably wouldn't have the same drama as technology would be at hand to overcome many of the obstacles. The 1930's, however, provides a far more challenging and thus interesting setting.
In The Pursuit of Holiness, author Jerry Bridges urges us to live a life of obedience to God, striving for increasing victory over sin. The first few...moreIn The Pursuit of Holiness, author Jerry Bridges urges us to live a life of obedience to God, striving for increasing victory over sin. The first few chapters define and argue the need for holiness. The rest of the book includes exhortation and practical tips for attaining greater holiness.
I listened to the audiobook version. Narration is as important as writing style when you’re listening to a book and while narration was competent I found it somewhat bland. I think this somewhat diminished my enjoyment of the book. At roughly 4 hours, however, that wasn’t such an issue.
What I liked most about the book was that the call to holiness is emphatic, well argued and of greater urgency than when Bridges first wrote it. I agree with the overall message. Bridges reminds us that the pursuit of holiness require discipline, and as far as this goes, it is a good exhortation. Exhortation and practical application are the book’s strengths.
The problem is, Bridges’ answer pretty much boils down to, “Memorise the Bible and try really hard.” That’s a caricature, of course, but not an unfair one. Bridges argues that holiness is neither an automatic process that happens when we become a Christian, nor is it a matter of legalistic works. He says that we need the Holy Spirit’s help and to walk in obedience to the word, both truths with which I agree, but he never really defines what relying on the Holy Spirit means beyond the conviction of the Spirit. We must exercise our minds and our reason to overcome our physical desires and emotions. Essentially, we read the Bible and the Spirit will convict us of sin, but it’s up to us to do it.
It’s not so much that what he says is wrong, it’s that it is incomplete. There is very little discussion on prayer, especially on praying in the Spirit, which the Apostle Paul says builds us up. And while there is certainly a need to overcome our sinful appetites, there is no discussion about fixing our affections on God. There is no joy or power in the pursuit of holiness as Bridges frames it in this book.
And perhaps this is the issue I had with this book. It convicted me of the need for holiness but sucked all the fun out of it.(less)
It's hard to separate the narration of an audiobook from the story. The entire Enders series is magnificently narrated and Parton what made the listen...moreIt's hard to separate the narration of an audiobook from the story. The entire Enders series is magnificently narrated and Parton what made the listening a pleasure. I enjoyed the story itself, but the ending was unsatisfying.(less)
A good listen. Levy is thorough in the history of the company and gives good insights. In the end, however, it feels like an apologetic for Google. Th...moreA good listen. Levy is thorough in the history of the company and gives good insights. In the end, however, it feels like an apologetic for Google. There is little critical analysis for a company that surely needs it. (less)
First impression of this audio book is Alfred Molena's butter smooth voice and British accent. It is simply and beautifully read and an absolute pleas...moreFirst impression of this audio book is Alfred Molena's butter smooth voice and British accent. It is simply and beautifully read and an absolute pleasure to listen to. This is my first encounter with the Iliad so I can't compare the translation, but found it thoroughly accessible and engaging.
As for the story itself, in a word, gruelling. Not in a negative way but this is, if you like, 'R rated' reading for the violence. But the macchinations and quarrels of gods and men are intriguing and Homer's use of imagery is delightful. (less)
How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth is a great primer on biblical interpretation. Fee and Stuart take us through each of the major biblical genres...moreHow to Read the Bible for All Its Worth is a great primer on biblical interpretation. Fee and Stuart take us through each of the major biblical genres giving tips on how to understand literary and cultural cues. Probably the weakest chapter is on the Pentateuch, but the rest of the book is a very good introduction aimed at the layperson who wants to get more from their Bible study.(less)
When I picked up Swan Song from Audible I didn't realise this was horror sci-fi so was taken by surprise in that regard. Actually, it crosses between...moreWhen I picked up Swan Song from Audible I didn't realise this was horror sci-fi so was taken by surprise in that regard. Actually, it crosses between sic-fi and fantasy as it is post-apocalyptic, but deals with super-natural themes. I was expecting aliens or something. That said, I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. The book is very long but fast paced. The audiobook narration is outstanding, but the swearing is more confronting when read aloud. For a horror, however, I found neither the language nor most of the violence gratuitous - more is implied than stated. Or maybe it's just that it's words rather than pictures. That said, McCallum paints a great word picture. Although the climax was somewhat predictable, it was evident during the narration which way it would go and left my pulse racing.
From the novel jacket: "On the edge of a barren Kansas landscape, an ex-wrestler called Black Frankenstein hears the cry..."Protect the Child!"---In the wasteland of New York City, a bag lady clutches a strange glass ring and feels magic coursing through her---Within an Idaho mountain, a survivalist compound lies in ruins, and a young boy learns how to kill.
"In a wasteland born of nuclear rage, in a world of mutant animals and marauding armies, the last people on earth are now the first. Three bands of survivors journey toward destiny---drawn into the final struggle between annihilation and life!
"They have survived the unsurvivable. Now the ultimate terror begins."(less)
Great book, although I must confess it took me a long time to complete it. It doesn't pull any punches but tells Jobs as he was - brilliant and brutal...moreGreat book, although I must confess it took me a long time to complete it. It doesn't pull any punches but tells Jobs as he was - brilliant and brutal. A must read for Apple fans (who will have long read it by now), lovers of biography and anyone with an interest in business or technology. (less)
I enjoyed Xenocide, but not as much as the previous two. Card continues to develop interesting concepts. We find out the nature of the Descolada. But...moreI enjoyed Xenocide, but not as much as the previous two. Card continues to develop interesting concepts. We find out the nature of the Descolada. But he slips into some weird metaphysics that stretch credulity a little to much. And near the end we're introduced to some rather annoying characters. The story isn't fully resolved and we have to read the next instalment for the conclusion - not sure if I will or not.(less)
It is done. If you've made it this far then you know where it's going and what to expect... but not all of it. Enough surprises to keep the suspense u...moreIt is done. If you've made it this far then you know where it's going and what to expect... but not all of it. Enough surprises to keep the suspense up. Roran acquits himself outstandingly and moves upward among the Varden. We visit Vroengard. Galbatorix makes a spectacular exit. Murtagh and Thorn also leave the stage. If you're a hopeless romantic you won't be entirely satisfied with the ending, but it is appropriate. (less)
Speaker for the Dead continues the story of Ender, 3000 years after the events of Ender's Game. Ender Wiggin has become a pariah, the Xenocide who ann...moreSpeaker for the Dead continues the story of Ender, 3000 years after the events of Ender's Game. Ender Wiggin has become a pariah, the Xenocide who annihilated an entire species. "The Speaker for the Dead" has gained revered religious status. Little do people know that Ender Wiggin and the original Speaker for the Dead are one and the same and that due to the effects of relativity on space travellers, he still lives. When Ender is called to speak the death of a number of people in the colony of Lusitania he uncovers a truth that can unite three species, endanger humanity and spawn a second genocide.
I found this book engaging and imaginative read. The characters are compelling, the speculative science intriguing and the questions about what is happening kept me reading to the end.
And, once again, this is a superbly narrated audiobook.(less)
I've heard about Ender's Game in a few places and thought I'd try it out. I downloaded the 20th anniversary audiobook from Audible. Haven't read Orson...moreI've heard about Ender's Game in a few places and thought I'd try it out. I downloaded the 20th anniversary audiobook from Audible. Haven't read Orson Scott Card before so didn't know what to expect.
First off, the narration was superb. It is dramatized in a few places in a way that intrigued. The narration as much as the story drew me in.
Ender (his nick name) is a boy-genius, an illegal third child allowed to be born in the hope that he will grow up to be the military commander who can defeat the "Buggers", a race of insectoid aliens who have twice attacked earth and are expected to do so again. At 6 years of age he sent to an orbiting military combat school where he is left to fend for himself, learning to adapt and overcome his opponents by sheer smarts.
The story itself is surprisingly captivating given that the author goes into great detail about Enders battles first in Battle School and then in Command School. But it's not all tactics, we get inside the boy genius Ender's brain, wondering if he's actually going to make it through, be murdered by jealous rivals, or burnout before he can, hopefully, beat the "buggers". The technology, although probably fantastic when the book was written, fits well into the 21st century. Its not dated, just native to the contemporary reader. It also delves a little into the fortunes of his beloved sister, Valentine, and their brother Peter who really is a nasty piece of work. This is something of a sidetrack but does serve some purpose, especially towards the end.
The story does have a couple of significant twists, although you do need to listen through to the end as it wasn't clear if the ending was going anywhere until the second twist emerged. According to Card who narrates an author's note at the end, the original short story was adapted into a novel precisely to set it up for the sequel, "Speaker for the Dead".
Card wrote this not as a kids book, but certainly with kids in mind and I'm happy for my 11 year old daughter to be reading, and thoroughly enjoying, it.(less)
I first heard this subject as a message at Global Leadership Summit and it was simply brilliant. The book is good and very well narrated by Manion, bu...moreI first heard this subject as a message at Global Leadership Summit and it was simply brilliant. The book is good and very well narrated by Manion, but my circumstances have moved on from when I first bought it. I also find this kind of Christian living literature unsatisfying. However, if you like the Max Lucado style I think you'll enjoy this. It does have some great insights into the biblical text and good application, it just doesn't resonate with me.(less)
Eragon is the eponymous tale of a teenage farm boy living with his uncle and cousin who one day discovers a dragon's egg. When the dragon chooses Erag...moreEragon is the eponymous tale of a teenage farm boy living with his uncle and cousin who one day discovers a dragon's egg. When the dragon chooses Eragon as her rider, they set off on an adventure that sees him a fugitive of the Empire. Mentored by the local storyteller, Brom, he learns about magic and the history of Alegaesia and discovers that being a rider is a mixed blessing. He has an uncommon bond with his dragon, Saphira, but is feared, honoured and manipulated by people.
This is a very imaginative, detailed and well written novel. We've been reading it as a family and everyone from the 9 year old daughter to the 13 year old son and their parents have thoroughly enjoyed it. (less)
Rye sets off to find his two older brothers who are lost, presumed dead, after they accepted a quest to find the source of the skimmers which are atta...moreRye sets off to find his two older brothers who are lost, presumed dead, after they accepted a quest to find the source of the skimmers which are attacking the city of Weld. Accompanied by an unwelcome orphan, Sonya, Rye soon discovers there is more to his quest than he expected.
The kids gave me this book for Fathers' Day (ulterior motives, perchance?). We finished it together in a week. Classic Emily Rodda. Only downside is now we have to wait months for the next instalment.(less)
Loading...
