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MAJI The untold adventure of the men of the East
%Young Zebedeo is between boyhood and manhood when he and his father Majid are joined by Balthazar, a warrior-priest from Babylon, and Liu Shang, a Chinese mystic and astronomer from the east.
The men travel across the desert to Jerusalem on the belief that their journey is a simple one, to follow a star-prophesy and worship a new king. Not long after, they meet the tyrannical King Herod who dispenses a warped idea of mercy to his subjects on a blood-soaked throne room floor. The military commander and captain of the elite guards Severo, serves as Herod's right hand and will stop at nothing in his quest for position and wealth--even if it means leading a slaughter of all the first born children in the region to appease his master.
Zebedeo, Balthazar and the other Maji quickly learn that the real reason for their journey is to save the life of the new king, no matter the cost.
The men travel across the desert to Jerusalem on the belief that their journey is a simple one, to follow a star-prophesy and worship a new king. Not long after, they meet the tyrannical King Herod who dispenses a warped idea of mercy to his subjects on a blood-soaked throne room floor. The military commander and captain of the elite guards Severo, serves as Herod's right hand and will stop at nothing in his quest for position and wealth--even if it means leading a slaughter of all the first born children in the region to appease his master.
Zebedeo, Balthazar and the other Maji quickly learn that the real reason for their journey is to save the life of the new king, no matter the cost.
172 pages
First published October 25, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 11, 2011
A very different kind of story of the first Christmas
This is a very different and potentially controversial portrayal of the very first Christmas, told from an unusual perspective of an adolescent accompanying his father on the journey to Jerusalem. What he sees along the way and when they arrive contains many lessons, some of which are spelled out (although not in a heavy handed way) and many others of which are implied. The hero Zebedeo is a delightful character, reminiscent of a teenager from today who has a different perspective on the world than the older generation, an insatiable appetite for knowledge of new things, and a willingness to overlook the demands of convention in the quest for authentic experience. Those who like their Biblical tales canned and unchanging may be offended by this unusual approach,
but readers with an open mind and heart will find themselves captivated as the author makes a two thousand year old story really come alive. Zebedeo, the teen hero, is willing to overlook differences of class, competing theological camps, tribal groups and other divisions to experience and connect with the underlying humanity which ultimately connects us all. Buy and read this, and get a copy for a friend as a gift.
This is a very different and potentially controversial portrayal of the very first Christmas, told from an unusual perspective of an adolescent accompanying his father on the journey to Jerusalem. What he sees along the way and when they arrive contains many lessons, some of which are spelled out (although not in a heavy handed way) and many others of which are implied. The hero Zebedeo is a delightful character, reminiscent of a teenager from today who has a different perspective on the world than the older generation, an insatiable appetite for knowledge of new things, and a willingness to overlook the demands of convention in the quest for authentic experience. Those who like their Biblical tales canned and unchanging may be offended by this unusual approach,
but readers with an open mind and heart will find themselves captivated as the author makes a two thousand year old story really come alive. Zebedeo, the teen hero, is willing to overlook differences of class, competing theological camps, tribal groups and other divisions to experience and connect with the underlying humanity which ultimately connects us all. Buy and read this, and get a copy for a friend as a gift.
November 11, 2011
The birth of Christ, told from an alternative perspective
Traveling from the east to Jerusalem with his father, the young Zebedeo has his eyes opened wide by the unfolding adventure of the Maji’s journey to find and adore the baby Jesus. This is no simple recounting of the Biblical tale, however. It provides an alternative and very human perspective on ancient events, making them come alive with descriptive passages that make you feel like you are really there experiencing it.
In many ways, Zebedeo will feel familiar to most readers because he is someone we can identify with, if we’re young now, or once were (and still are, at heart). If today’s teenager might have a keen insight into technology, Zebedeo has a similar keen insight into new ways of thinking and feeling, and is able to ultimately open up his father’s mind to a new path. This has the feeling of an instant classic, and I’d be surprised if it isn’t optioned for television or a movie, because it has a very cinematic feel to it.
Traveling from the east to Jerusalem with his father, the young Zebedeo has his eyes opened wide by the unfolding adventure of the Maji’s journey to find and adore the baby Jesus. This is no simple recounting of the Biblical tale, however. It provides an alternative and very human perspective on ancient events, making them come alive with descriptive passages that make you feel like you are really there experiencing it.
In many ways, Zebedeo will feel familiar to most readers because he is someone we can identify with, if we’re young now, or once were (and still are, at heart). If today’s teenager might have a keen insight into technology, Zebedeo has a similar keen insight into new ways of thinking and feeling, and is able to ultimately open up his father’s mind to a new path. This has the feeling of an instant classic, and I’d be surprised if it isn’t optioned for television or a movie, because it has a very cinematic feel to it.
November 19, 2011
The most thrilling part about writing this novel is that I feel as if I walked with our friends on their journey to Jerusalem. Zebedeo, our narrator and main character, came to life as I investigated where he might have been at the time of Augustus Caesar. You can discover more about this story in the upcoming sequel Order of the Maji as well as in Maji the untold adventure of the Men of the east in the Expanded Edition for Kindle (and others) which has graphics, maps, historical background, and time-lines to discover. Most of all, I hope you enjoy reading this adventure and taking a trip with me back to the time of Zebedeo and the Maji who followed the star to Bethlehem.
November 10, 2011
This book was great! I grew up with the standard Christian story of the 3 Wise Men who went to see Jesus when he was born. This book reminded me of that story. I can really connect with this story. Despite Majid being so into mathematics, he was also into stars. Nowadays, those fields of study contradict one another. Regardless, he chose to travel. He chose destiny over logic. I really appreciate the core message of this book: you may make choices for your life but your path has already been cemented. I recommend this to everyone.
November 11, 2011
This was a wonderful read. I feel like you can be in tune with the characters and be very clear throughout the book. I was very impressed with how well researched the book was; it made its point clear across the board, something that I personally was very impressed with. I think that so many books aren’t well researched and don’t really fit the time period they’re in. This one does. I also really liked the ‘my father is like an old woman’ line. The author shows very good comparison and draws out the characters. I thought that the character’s path was well-written and well chosen.
November 11, 2011
I have read many novels based on Jesus Christ's life,and I am a big fan of this genre. Meier delivered a traditional story with a little twist. While keeping with facts provided in the Bible, Meier explores the lives of three kings from the east, and their journey to the birth of Christ. Meier's novel is clever and well written. I was even slightly amused at times when I read lines like "you skinny desert rat!” A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. I highly recommend this book. I look forward to seeing more from this author.
November 16, 2011
At first I wasn’t sure that this book would be as good as it was. Maji was the first book I have ever read that involved Jesus in any way. I would say telling the story from the viewpoint of the wise men made this book very interesting. Each point that the author was trying to make was well researched and easy to understand. The hero Zebedeo was well written in you felt his journey on his quest for knowledge. Their journey through the book gave you a great view of what they were faced with on the trip to adorn the baby jesus. I can’t wait to see what the author writes next.
December 9, 2011
Maji is a well written piece of literature. It allows you to travel along Zebedo's journey of discovering who he really is as young man. Every aspect of the book give you a glimps of what it was like to live under King Herod's Kingdom. It helps you to understand the significance of The Maji's passion to find the New King (Savior of The World) I found it to be very adventureous, intense, romantic and heart warming. I look forward to seeing it on the silver screen. It is a must read and a classic Christmas book.
November 11, 2011
Meier's Maji tells the nativity story from the point of view of the so-called wise men. While holding true the points mentioned in Bible text, the story develops the missing pieces of the puzzle beautifully; adding excitement, drama and even a little romance to the plot. It was enjoyable from beginning to end. I don't recall a dull moment. It is very well written and quite realistic. A great read!!
November 11, 2011
I loved this book! I’ve been looking for some ideas for a novel I’m writing for National Novel Month, and while I’m not copying anything out of this book directly, or probably even remotely, it did inspire me. I thought it was extremely well-written and I followed the characters very, very well. I loved the line ‘wake up your lazy swine’. Priceless! I also really liked the line about the warrior among the thieves. Well-written. Going to read it again tonight.
November 11, 2011
This review is from: MAJI: The untold adventure of the men of the East (Kindle Edition)
This is a swift coming-of-age story as our hero gives us a the inside story of three "Kings" following the star to the birth of Christ. As the son of the Maji, Zebedeo, learns of cruel injustices and immoral acts on his way to Jerusalem. All this paves the way for a new hope. But circumstances conspire to put his new faith to the test. Puts a face on an old story.
This is a swift coming-of-age story as our hero gives us a the inside story of three "Kings" following the star to the birth of Christ. As the son of the Maji, Zebedeo, learns of cruel injustices and immoral acts on his way to Jerusalem. All this paves the way for a new hope. But circumstances conspire to put his new faith to the test. Puts a face on an old story.
November 11, 2011
This book was excellent! It immediately grabbed my attention from the first chapter. I loved getting to know the characters and the way the author wrote, it definitely kept my attention. This was definitely an interesting way to portray the first Christmas. I also loved the way the book displayed Zebedo and his father's relationship. I recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a great action packed read!
November 18, 2011
Everyone can enjoy this book. It is not a slow start at all. So you will be hooked from the first chapter. It is a creatively written story about an adventurous,intelligent, and inquisitive young man. It also offers a refreshing and clever take on the a very familiar biblical story. I loved the characters and the interaction between Zebedo and his father, Majid. It is a true adventure and very entertaining. Get ready for an adventure!
November 21, 2011
Zebedeo struggles with accepting the life lessons of his father. Majid relentlessly enforces his views on his son to persuade him to accept his beliefs, as he accepted the beliefs of his father before him. Beautifully written timeless story of tradition and family values. Excellent read for those interested in the celestials and their history. I recommend this book for the exciting journey depicted throughout the story line!!
November 10, 2011
Maji is very well written. I was captivated by Zebedeo's journey to Jerusalem, and the wonderful relationship he has with his father. Meier vividly depicts Zebedeo's adventure, you are immediately thrust into his world. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
November 10, 2011
This book was thoroughly enjoyable! The pace was great, and the character development was spot-on. The relationship between Zebedo and his father is beautifully portrayed. Readers will find themselves drawn in by the adventure and find themselves fully intrigued. Definitely recommended!!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews