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Exclusive Pedigree: My life in and out of the Brethren
John Fear was born into a religious sect known as the Exclusive Brethren. This sheltered him from the outside world as he grew up, but could not hide him from its influences. A struggle began in his mind that led him to leave the Brethren, along with his young family. This is a story that was always meant to be told. During his later life John Fear had prepared a lot of the book, along with notes for chapters that he knew would not be completed. It is only now, over twenty years later, that the book is finally being published. It contains original content written by John, along with diary notes, letters and magazine articles. The final chapters are written by his second eldest son, Alastair. The memoir is introduced and edited by his eldest son, Robert, as a tribute to his father's amazing life. Recommendation "Great intro, so much is said in just a few words. The author has put lots of feeling into it too. A quality presentation. Excellent cover, excellent photos, chapter titles and accuracy. Lovely evocative writing. Well, thank heaven that Robert Fear decided to publish his father's gem of a book! This is not to be missed - I simply couldn't put it down! John Fear certainly had an entertaining command of the English language and tells a wonderful tale of his life. There is great variety from cosy family memories to horrific scenes in a coup. A variety of techniques are used to portray this memoir - diary entries, a telegram, and letters. I like the travel aspect to this memoir too - I wasn't expecting it. A fantastic book. A wonderful and powerful tribute." Julie Haigh - Top 1000 Reviewer
- GenresMemoir
306 pages, Paperback
Published July 31, 2016
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268 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 30, 2017
This interesting memoir kept me glued to the pages throughout. An incredible life well lived and I am sure your father would be so proud of you Robert for editing and getting his story published. What an amazing tribute to your father. John was a thoughtful and reflective man and when he was not comfortable with the life imposed on him by the Exclusive Brethren life he was in, he left. A great cost in leaving the life you have known all your life and leaving family members who you might never see again. He had his wife and children though who loved and supported him. What inspired me was the life he created for himself and family after leaving. Still serving God he worked in many places throughout the world, rubbing shoulders with many famous people including Billy Graeme, Mother Theresa and Cliff Richards to name a few. Very humbly written and an amazing testimony. You should be so proud of your Dad, Robert. He was an amazing person and lived an incredible life.
August 9, 2016
A wonderful and powerful tribute.
Edited by Robert Fear, (Fred's Diary 1981), these are his father's memoirs which Robert is finally publishing for him. The book has a great intro, so much is said in just a few words. The author has put lots of feeling into it too. A quality presentation. Excellent cover, excellent photos, chapter titles and accuracy. Lovely evocative writing.
There were brilliant descriptions of his childhood home which really captured the atmosphere. I love reading what life was like in years gone by. I remembered lots of the sweets mentioned in the book. Many things were making me smile as I read, lots of things were familiar-springing to mind memories of my grandparents' gardens and the things they homemade which now one just goes to the shops for-convenient-but lost memories. This was a brilliant book, a wonderful collection of memories. It was just so interesting with lots of fascinating info and so well written. Compelling to read, concise, it flowed so easily. Robert Fear's father was a child in wartime Britain. This is not just about the Brethren-it's Robert's father's account of his whole life and is enormously interesting.
Well, thank heaven that Robert Fear decided to publish his father's gem of a book! This is not to be missed-I simply couldn't put it down! John Fear certainly had an entertaining command of the English language and tells a wonderful tale of his life. So much nostalgia about school, war, and rationing, washing etc-all the things we take for granted nowadays. I absolutely flew through this-it was such a good read! It was interesting as he did radio broadcasts for Africa, India, and The Seychelles etc. There is great variety from cosy family memories to horrific scenes in a coup. A variety of techniques are used to portray this memoir-diary entries, a telegram, and letters. I like the travel aspect to this memoir too-I wasn't expecting it. A fantastic book. A wonderful and powerful tribute.
Edited by Robert Fear, (Fred's Diary 1981), these are his father's memoirs which Robert is finally publishing for him. The book has a great intro, so much is said in just a few words. The author has put lots of feeling into it too. A quality presentation. Excellent cover, excellent photos, chapter titles and accuracy. Lovely evocative writing.
There were brilliant descriptions of his childhood home which really captured the atmosphere. I love reading what life was like in years gone by. I remembered lots of the sweets mentioned in the book. Many things were making me smile as I read, lots of things were familiar-springing to mind memories of my grandparents' gardens and the things they homemade which now one just goes to the shops for-convenient-but lost memories. This was a brilliant book, a wonderful collection of memories. It was just so interesting with lots of fascinating info and so well written. Compelling to read, concise, it flowed so easily. Robert Fear's father was a child in wartime Britain. This is not just about the Brethren-it's Robert's father's account of his whole life and is enormously interesting.
Well, thank heaven that Robert Fear decided to publish his father's gem of a book! This is not to be missed-I simply couldn't put it down! John Fear certainly had an entertaining command of the English language and tells a wonderful tale of his life. So much nostalgia about school, war, and rationing, washing etc-all the things we take for granted nowadays. I absolutely flew through this-it was such a good read! It was interesting as he did radio broadcasts for Africa, India, and The Seychelles etc. There is great variety from cosy family memories to horrific scenes in a coup. A variety of techniques are used to portray this memoir-diary entries, a telegram, and letters. I like the travel aspect to this memoir too-I wasn't expecting it. A fantastic book. A wonderful and powerful tribute.
September 21, 2020
I was attracted to Robert Fear’s memoir, Exclusive Pedigree, because I could relate to living a similar, sheltered life of religious separation in my early life. Author Fear and I, both memoirists, share memberships in two writing groups: We Love Memoirs and Rave Reviews Book Club, where I learned of Robert’s work, editing the journals and diaries of his father, John L. Fear.
While my Mennonite memoir is set in Pennsylvania, USA, Robert’s setting is in England, each story revealing similar separatist interpretation of biblical rules. I could certainly relate to the family’s eschewing reading comics in newspapers, wearing make-up or jewelry, astrology, smoking, playing cards, or drinking alcohol, “Satan’s Brew.” My father too was a conscientious objector, but we were not forbidden to make friends outside of the church. Each of our families had huge gardens and valued herbal medicine. I too had a stern father, but other close family members, like a grandmother, were more benevolent.
The text, though mostly devoid of dialogue, reads like a diary, not a novel. However, it is rich in detail, which to a modern reader may sound quaint: The family had various uses for a single galvanized zinc tub: Father brewed herbal mixtures, mother washed clothes, and the family took baths. Once in a while the tub was used for household baptisms.
John Fear’s formative years were bookended by the Depression and World War II, after which his family left the Exclusive Brethren and his life expanded through the military service, travel to continental Europe, and an appointment to the British Civil Service. Eventually, John’s world included involvement with the Billy Graham Crusades and Christian broadcasting in India, East Africa, and other climes. Long after John and his family left the Exclusive Brethren sect, he has found comfort in his own expression of faith: “I have come to the inescapable conclusion, far too late in life, that it is better to be loving than to be right.”
Publishing the book has been a family affair: “John wrote chapters 1 to 26 himself. Chapters 27 to 35 have been built up from his notes. Chapters 36 to 39 were compiled from John’s letters and extracts from his diary." Brother Alastair wrote the final chapters and Robert recorded the manuscript on computer and edited it. It has since been published as an audio book.
Like Robert, I felt compelled to write my story because I wanted to leave a legacy to my descendants. As writer Laurence Overmire states, “If you can make your ancestors real for yourself, learn their stories and who they were, your life . . . will take on added meaning.” Robert Fear, I am quite certain, would agree.
While my Mennonite memoir is set in Pennsylvania, USA, Robert’s setting is in England, each story revealing similar separatist interpretation of biblical rules. I could certainly relate to the family’s eschewing reading comics in newspapers, wearing make-up or jewelry, astrology, smoking, playing cards, or drinking alcohol, “Satan’s Brew.” My father too was a conscientious objector, but we were not forbidden to make friends outside of the church. Each of our families had huge gardens and valued herbal medicine. I too had a stern father, but other close family members, like a grandmother, were more benevolent.
The text, though mostly devoid of dialogue, reads like a diary, not a novel. However, it is rich in detail, which to a modern reader may sound quaint: The family had various uses for a single galvanized zinc tub: Father brewed herbal mixtures, mother washed clothes, and the family took baths. Once in a while the tub was used for household baptisms.
John Fear’s formative years were bookended by the Depression and World War II, after which his family left the Exclusive Brethren and his life expanded through the military service, travel to continental Europe, and an appointment to the British Civil Service. Eventually, John’s world included involvement with the Billy Graham Crusades and Christian broadcasting in India, East Africa, and other climes. Long after John and his family left the Exclusive Brethren sect, he has found comfort in his own expression of faith: “I have come to the inescapable conclusion, far too late in life, that it is better to be loving than to be right.”
Publishing the book has been a family affair: “John wrote chapters 1 to 26 himself. Chapters 27 to 35 have been built up from his notes. Chapters 36 to 39 were compiled from John’s letters and extracts from his diary." Brother Alastair wrote the final chapters and Robert recorded the manuscript on computer and edited it. It has since been published as an audio book.
Like Robert, I felt compelled to write my story because I wanted to leave a legacy to my descendants. As writer Laurence Overmire states, “If you can make your ancestors real for yourself, learn their stories and who they were, your life . . . will take on added meaning.” Robert Fear, I am quite certain, would agree.
August 13, 2016
I do not personally know the author but through a third party, I was most fortunate to be given the opportunity to beta-read the memoir, "Exclusive Pedigree" by John L Fear. Having experienced my own staunch Christian upbringing but in a more liberal faith, I was curious to understand more about the Exclusive Brethren faith. One of my primary school friends belonged to the same faith, but ours wasn't a typical childhood friendship. The author's writing assisted me all these years later, to understand why those limitations existed and the impact they had on our friendship, a friendship that was never destined to continue beyond our primary school.
How fortunate that John Fear decided to write the story of his life as a member of the Exclusive Brethren faith and his life beyond the faith, but still serving the God whom he loved. There was no trace of on-going bitterness towards the sect when the adult author and his young family left the faith although it meant that relationships with extended family were severed. One of the fascinating aspects of the book was John's descriptions of life as a child, placing everything in its appropriate historical perspective. What struck a strong chord with me also, was John's many and long absences from his home and family, as he served his Christian faith, through various forms of Christian media, generally in countries away from where his family lived in Great Britain. One can only imagine the stresses this must have placed not only on John but especially on his wife and children.
This is a fascinating story and it is to Robert Fear's credit, that he took on the task of editing his father's memoir. John Fear originally wrote of his memories because he wanted his children, grandchildren, and their children, to have knowledge of their family history. How much wealthier would be the education of our children, grandchildren and succeeding generations if we all followed John Fear's idea of writing our family history in one form or another, for our descendants to read and understand from whom and whence they descend.
I have no hesitation in highly recommending this book as one that will enthrall you for any number of reasons. Whatever your interest, history, family relationships, the Christian faith, or media, you will not be disappointed in reading this memoir.
How fortunate that John Fear decided to write the story of his life as a member of the Exclusive Brethren faith and his life beyond the faith, but still serving the God whom he loved. There was no trace of on-going bitterness towards the sect when the adult author and his young family left the faith although it meant that relationships with extended family were severed. One of the fascinating aspects of the book was John's descriptions of life as a child, placing everything in its appropriate historical perspective. What struck a strong chord with me also, was John's many and long absences from his home and family, as he served his Christian faith, through various forms of Christian media, generally in countries away from where his family lived in Great Britain. One can only imagine the stresses this must have placed not only on John but especially on his wife and children.
This is a fascinating story and it is to Robert Fear's credit, that he took on the task of editing his father's memoir. John Fear originally wrote of his memories because he wanted his children, grandchildren, and their children, to have knowledge of their family history. How much wealthier would be the education of our children, grandchildren and succeeding generations if we all followed John Fear's idea of writing our family history in one form or another, for our descendants to read and understand from whom and whence they descend.
I have no hesitation in highly recommending this book as one that will enthrall you for any number of reasons. Whatever your interest, history, family relationships, the Christian faith, or media, you will not be disappointed in reading this memoir.
August 24, 2016
I found this to be an utterly fascinating memoir. Robert Fear has undertaken the task of writing up his father John Fear’s notes and making his father’s dream of having his story published come true. John was born into a very religious family who belonged to the ‘Exclusive Brethren’ However, his childhood although poor, was happy and he was much loved by his parents. His childhood ‘took place in interesting times’ that is, during the war years and many of the things he recounts are the same as those told to me by my mother who was a similar age. It made me smile to read them but with a tear in my eye! Gas mantles and gas masks! The Blackout and rationing! I loved the clarity of the writing and his sharply observed descriptions which allowed his character to shine through! It’s a superb evocation of a time which has passed. He was brought up to be God fearing and his strong faith and love of God endured through his life and sustained him through troubled times. After marrying and having his own family he started to read more widely and came to the conclusion that he had to leave the brethren as it was too proscriptive and had become a cult. Sadly this meant severing ties with close family some of whom they never saw again. After leaving he was fortunate to become involved with the Billy Graham campaigns, some of which I can remember myself, and again his sincerity and devotion to God’s work are evident. From this John’s life took an amazing turn and he became involved in Radio working in such exotic places as the Seychelles spreading the Gospel to India and East Africa. I must say I have a great admiration for his wife who was left at home to bring up the family as he was away for lengthy periods of time. However they were obviously devoted to each other and we can see this from his letters. It’s just a marvellous read we can see that this quiet man has led a remarkable and most extraordinary life. Thanks to Robert for all his work in bringing this work to a much wider audience. Highly recommended.
September 15, 2016
When a book takes me weeks, not days, to finish it speaks volumes. Either it’s too turgid to stick with for very long or it’s one that demands to be savoured at leisure. Dipping into this particular volume, I found so much to enjoy that I read several sections again and again. The journey of John Fear, from working class wannabe preacher to National Service volunteer to lawyer’s clerk to successful salesman to promotion organiser to Billy Graham to radio interviewer of such luminaries as Mother Teresa and Malcolm Muggeridge, and finally to foreign correspondent in India, Africa, and the Seychelles, is a fascinating one, and one which I can personally identify with (I was also born into a radical Christian family, nearly became a priest, ended up in sales and India). Beautifully edited by John’s son, Robert, this is a very well written memoir of a deeply principled man who took his whole family out of the ‘Exclusive Brethren’ when it became too cultish in the late 50s (members weren’t even allowed to have a cup of tea with anyone outside of the fellowship!) and survived chronic ill-health, a near-fatal car crash, and a number of personal tragedies to live by his own rules and beliefs. I was especially touched by one of his closing statements:
"During the year immediately following my retirement, I had time to reflect deeply on how much I had failed to live by my Christian principles and on what an imperfect witness I had been to the Grace of God. There were incidents I regretted and times when I said things that were unkind. All of these needed time to bring to God and seek his forgiveness. Wherever possible I wrote to those whom I had wronged. At the same time I was grateful for all the opportunities I had been given for serving the Lord."
John more than took advantage of these opportunities and the result is a joy of a book to read. Deep, thoughtful, humorous and brave, the world could do with a lot more such ‘imperfect witnesses’.
"During the year immediately following my retirement, I had time to reflect deeply on how much I had failed to live by my Christian principles and on what an imperfect witness I had been to the Grace of God. There were incidents I regretted and times when I said things that were unkind. All of these needed time to bring to God and seek his forgiveness. Wherever possible I wrote to those whom I had wronged. At the same time I was grateful for all the opportunities I had been given for serving the Lord."
John more than took advantage of these opportunities and the result is a joy of a book to read. Deep, thoughtful, humorous and brave, the world could do with a lot more such ‘imperfect witnesses’.
August 28, 2016
VERY WELL WRITTEN
Some readers might criticize indie books but this one was very well written and the editing was flawless. I also enjoyed the interesting account of struggling against the restrictions of a religious sect. I also appreciated the fact that while it might have been tempting to write a sensational ‘behind the scenes account’ about the famous names, the authors avoided this. A really enjoyable read I am happy to recommend.
Some readers might criticize indie books but this one was very well written and the editing was flawless. I also enjoyed the interesting account of struggling against the restrictions of a religious sect. I also appreciated the fact that while it might have been tempting to write a sensational ‘behind the scenes account’ about the famous names, the authors avoided this. A really enjoyable read I am happy to recommend.
May 11, 2020
A tribute to John Fear’s exceptional life...
The Exclusive Brethren Church may be somewhat of an enigma to those outside of the Evangelical Christian community. They’ve been called everything from a cult to a secretive sect. However, this review has little to do with their religious beliefs, and more to do with the life of an extraordinary man, John L. Fear.
This autobiography is the living record of a man, crisscrossed by the personal history of a family and the most intimate fibers of his being. It is an exemplary human response to a life well lived through the good times and the hard times. It’s a wonderful story mixed with history, social customs, travel, and belief.
John’s honest reflections about his life touched me as the curtain was about to close for him: ‘During the year immediately following my retirement, I had time to reflect deeply on how much I had failed to live by my Christian principles and on what an imperfect witness I had been to the Grace of God. There were incidents I regretted and times when I said things that were unkind. All of these needed time to bring to God and seek his forgiveness. Wherever possible I wrote to those whom I had wronged. At the same time I was grateful for all the opportunities I had been given for serving the Lord.’
I was equally touched by this statement that we could all learn and benefit from: ‘Looking back on life I would like to have been less preoccupied with myself, less dependent on the opinion of others, while remaining undisturbed by their criticism and unaffected by their praise.’
I really enjoyed the fact that this book was completed and edited by the authors sons Robert, and Alastair. The overall tone was simply imparting knowledge, personal experience, and wisdom in a gentle and generous way. I’ve no doubt he’d be immensely proud of both of you. Highly recommended reading and a well-deserved five stars from me.
Exclusive Pedigree: My life in and out of the Brethren is a powerful and inspirational story that will leave you feeling like a better person for having read it. It’s an impressive work by the late John L. Fear. RIP.
The Exclusive Brethren Church may be somewhat of an enigma to those outside of the Evangelical Christian community. They’ve been called everything from a cult to a secretive sect. However, this review has little to do with their religious beliefs, and more to do with the life of an extraordinary man, John L. Fear.
This autobiography is the living record of a man, crisscrossed by the personal history of a family and the most intimate fibers of his being. It is an exemplary human response to a life well lived through the good times and the hard times. It’s a wonderful story mixed with history, social customs, travel, and belief.
John’s honest reflections about his life touched me as the curtain was about to close for him: ‘During the year immediately following my retirement, I had time to reflect deeply on how much I had failed to live by my Christian principles and on what an imperfect witness I had been to the Grace of God. There were incidents I regretted and times when I said things that were unkind. All of these needed time to bring to God and seek his forgiveness. Wherever possible I wrote to those whom I had wronged. At the same time I was grateful for all the opportunities I had been given for serving the Lord.’
I was equally touched by this statement that we could all learn and benefit from: ‘Looking back on life I would like to have been less preoccupied with myself, less dependent on the opinion of others, while remaining undisturbed by their criticism and unaffected by their praise.’
I really enjoyed the fact that this book was completed and edited by the authors sons Robert, and Alastair. The overall tone was simply imparting knowledge, personal experience, and wisdom in a gentle and generous way. I’ve no doubt he’d be immensely proud of both of you. Highly recommended reading and a well-deserved five stars from me.
Exclusive Pedigree: My life in and out of the Brethren is a powerful and inspirational story that will leave you feeling like a better person for having read it. It’s an impressive work by the late John L. Fear. RIP.
December 12, 2018
John Fear was born into a family of the Exclusive Brethren, but chose to leave when it became more like a cult.
This memoir shares his journey through the war years including the impact of rationing, mass bombings... on the author's childhood. Although John left school early to help provide much needed income for his family, his career path seemed predestined to encompass faith and spirituality.
He envisaged a career in law, but national service interrupted his training and he eventually became an award winning salesman.
His talents were later put to good use in organising large scale events for Billy Graham and his organisation, which led to him working as a journalist and broadcaster for a Christian radio station in The Seychelles, India and Africa.
John met many high profile figures on his journey, including Cliff Richard, Malcolm Muggeridge, Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul...
However, he remained a humble man, listening and taking note of other people's perspectives on life and spirituality. He shared a great love for his wife Mary and his family, who lived through his long absences while he worked abroad.
This book is a great testament to his life and to his family, including his son Robert who edited this very special memoir.
This memoir shares his journey through the war years including the impact of rationing, mass bombings... on the author's childhood. Although John left school early to help provide much needed income for his family, his career path seemed predestined to encompass faith and spirituality.
He envisaged a career in law, but national service interrupted his training and he eventually became an award winning salesman.
His talents were later put to good use in organising large scale events for Billy Graham and his organisation, which led to him working as a journalist and broadcaster for a Christian radio station in The Seychelles, India and Africa.
John met many high profile figures on his journey, including Cliff Richard, Malcolm Muggeridge, Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul...
However, he remained a humble man, listening and taking note of other people's perspectives on life and spirituality. He shared a great love for his wife Mary and his family, who lived through his long absences while he worked abroad.
This book is a great testament to his life and to his family, including his son Robert who edited this very special memoir.
August 30, 2017
This is a great family memoir of John Fear who was born between WW1 and WW2 so lived through some very interesting and eventful times in recent history. His descriptions of all these times are interesting. As was his later career working for the Billy Graham organisation and in radio.
I was slightly disappointed as I was expected it to be more about him and his family being in the Exclusive Brethren - a cult or subset of Christianity depending on how you view them. I was hoping for more dialogue about the life they were expected to lead within the Exclusive Brethren and how leaving affecting him and his remaining family members. His parents were dead when he wrote this having had no contact with four of their six children for the last 25 years of their lives due to his parents remaining members of the Exclusive Brethren while the children left. This was the real story I wanted to hear. I would also have liked to hear more about his experience of attending church after he's left the Exclusive Brethren. I wasn't clear on what local church he attended, if any.
I was slightly disappointed as I was expected it to be more about him and his family being in the Exclusive Brethren - a cult or subset of Christianity depending on how you view them. I was hoping for more dialogue about the life they were expected to lead within the Exclusive Brethren and how leaving affecting him and his remaining family members. His parents were dead when he wrote this having had no contact with four of their six children for the last 25 years of their lives due to his parents remaining members of the Exclusive Brethren while the children left. This was the real story I wanted to hear. I would also have liked to hear more about his experience of attending church after he's left the Exclusive Brethren. I wasn't clear on what local church he attended, if any.
December 11, 2022
Extremely interesting.
John Fear grew up without the confines of the strict religious sect, the Exclusive Brethren, and this book covers his life, from his recollections as a toddler, through to his retirement. His entire life was dedicated to serving God, and he travelled extensively, a lot of the time alone, to follow his calling.
An extremely interesting book related mainly from his memoirs and journal entries; brilliantly edited by his eldest son, Robert.
John Fear grew up without the confines of the strict religious sect, the Exclusive Brethren, and this book covers his life, from his recollections as a toddler, through to his retirement. His entire life was dedicated to serving God, and he travelled extensively, a lot of the time alone, to follow his calling.
An extremely interesting book related mainly from his memoirs and journal entries; brilliantly edited by his eldest son, Robert.
September 13, 2016
This beautifully edited book is more than a memoir. It is a delightful mix of history, social customs, travel and belief. Robert Fear took on the task of compiling his father's writings, letters and oral history after John's death. I was fascinated with memories of life in England during the war and the influence of the Exclusive Brethren on a young mind. I had fully expected to read something more extreme when I saw that the family planned to leave the strict sect. Instead of reacting as many do and totally abandoning any sort of belief system, John Fear remained true to his convictions and continued a strongly religious way of life.
What an incredible human being. You really need to read what he accomplished for himself. From Billy Graham to the Seychelles this remarkable man had the most amazing and inspiring experiences. I read the last chapter and all I could think was that this was a life well lived.
What an incredible human being. You really need to read what he accomplished for himself. From Billy Graham to the Seychelles this remarkable man had the most amazing and inspiring experiences. I read the last chapter and all I could think was that this was a life well lived.
June 27, 2019
John L. Fear Exclusive Pedigree: My life in and out of the Brethren
A thinking man’s life makes especially interesting reading and John L. Fear was a man who reflected deeply on his life. For me, the interest is on many levels.
Firstly, the author writes about a period that I too knew well. Though I grew up just a few years later than he, the life he describes is very similar to that I knew, towards the end and immediately after the Second World War. You obeyed your parents, did your best at school, found the best job you could, fulfilled the National Service requirement (few people toady know the term National Service), and conducted your life in an orderly and responsible fashion. Choices were limited and you were satisfied relatively easily.
Secondly, everybody had an interest then, a hobby that they diligently pursued, or they belonged to one or more group groups that provided focus to your life and satisfied your social needs.
Thirdly, at that time, you strove. You strove to be a worthy person respecting yourself and others. You strove to be a good employee, a respectful son to your Mum and Dad, a valued sibling and loyal friend. You strove to better yourself in every way you could, intellectually, materially and spiritually.
John L. Fear covers all of these bases. They were fundamental in that period.
However, what is particularly noteworthy, is that the author was brought up within an offshoot of a Christian sect known as the Plymouth Brethren. That sect maintained an uncompromising separation from all that refused to share the most refined of their biblical interpretations and in so doing split families apart by their inability to compromise.
John L. Fear gives an insider’s view of that life and, of course, it is not as odd to him as it might be to an outsider. Indeed, an outsider may never guess that he belonged to the Exclusive Brethren even if he worked alongside them. You might merely have thought of him as more ‘upright’ and more ‘devout’ than yourself.
Words like strive, upright and devout have lost their currency in today’s world but everybody understood what they meant in that period whether or not they practised such virtues.
Hence the matter-of-fact perspective that the author adopts in his clear and concise way of expression is as revealing as it is satisfying.
To begin with and for most of this fascinating account, he writes directly and without apology from his own personal point of view. However, as I read, I came to appreciate that his perspective is so single-minded that I began to wonder if he was capable of putting himself in the shoes of ‘the other’. He writes without even the slightest hint that he might appreciate that a perspective on life other than his own, worthy though that may be, might warrant the merest of acknowledgement in his reflections.
In the most direct and captivating manner, he covers his early work with the Inland Revenue, the tax authority in the UK, his courtship and marriage, the birth of his children, family holidays and his risk-taking switch from a secure public service career to that of a salesman dependent on his own discipline and capabilities to generate enough to satisfy a growing family.
A life-threatening accident in France, however, brings about a spiritual uneasiness that leads him to doubt not his religion but the narrow doctrines that bind him to the Exclusive Brethren.
He accepts an invitation to join the Billy Graham Crusade when it arrives in the UK and proves to be an unequalled organiser, promoter and interviewer. From there, his professional life takes a change in direction and he puts to highly productive use his knowledge of Christian scripture, his capacity to preach, his expertise in project and event management and his advanced communication expertise.
It is as if the first part of his life were practised and enjoyed locally and the later part of his life represented the harvest of all of the intellectual efforts he had made earlier.
But work with the Billy Graham Crusade only serves to hone his skills and he becomes a radio presenter on behalf of spiritual and economic development in some of the most interesting parts in the world – the Seychelles, India and Africa.
At that point the reader, though not the author, begins to appreciate the role that the author’s wife and family play in backing him up, in supporting his career and his personal life, devoted though it may be to a higher power.
Despite justifying, for the greater part of his life, his decisions, career changes and his demanding work schedule as a binding sacrifice to God’s work on Earth, John L. Fear reaches yet another level of appreciation of life’s complexities and begins to be more reflective and self-critical as he nears his end. The British intellectual and controversialist Malcolm Muggeridge, a larger-than-life figure in 1970s Britain, has a critical role in the author’s intellectual development. Towards the end, John acknowledges, "It is better to be kindly than to be right." If only we could all reach that conclusion earlier, much suffering would be avoided.
It’s a cliché that behind every successful man is a woman. In John L. Fear’s case it is likely the truth that not only was his wife his support, but so were his children. The author claims that Billy Graham was an absentee husband and parent. Perhaps he made that claim knowing that he had to rationalise his own long absences from his family when the demands of his overseas work made even a regular letter penned to those back home was impossible to accomplish or competed with tasks given a higher priority.
Nevertheless, John’s entire family support him at the end. Wounds are bound, ruptures are healed and he goes to his maker if not in comfort, in peace.
This is a fine piece of writing, beautifully edited by his literary son, Robert.
A thinking man’s life makes especially interesting reading and John L. Fear was a man who reflected deeply on his life. For me, the interest is on many levels.
Firstly, the author writes about a period that I too knew well. Though I grew up just a few years later than he, the life he describes is very similar to that I knew, towards the end and immediately after the Second World War. You obeyed your parents, did your best at school, found the best job you could, fulfilled the National Service requirement (few people toady know the term National Service), and conducted your life in an orderly and responsible fashion. Choices were limited and you were satisfied relatively easily.
Secondly, everybody had an interest then, a hobby that they diligently pursued, or they belonged to one or more group groups that provided focus to your life and satisfied your social needs.
Thirdly, at that time, you strove. You strove to be a worthy person respecting yourself and others. You strove to be a good employee, a respectful son to your Mum and Dad, a valued sibling and loyal friend. You strove to better yourself in every way you could, intellectually, materially and spiritually.
John L. Fear covers all of these bases. They were fundamental in that period.
However, what is particularly noteworthy, is that the author was brought up within an offshoot of a Christian sect known as the Plymouth Brethren. That sect maintained an uncompromising separation from all that refused to share the most refined of their biblical interpretations and in so doing split families apart by their inability to compromise.
John L. Fear gives an insider’s view of that life and, of course, it is not as odd to him as it might be to an outsider. Indeed, an outsider may never guess that he belonged to the Exclusive Brethren even if he worked alongside them. You might merely have thought of him as more ‘upright’ and more ‘devout’ than yourself.
Words like strive, upright and devout have lost their currency in today’s world but everybody understood what they meant in that period whether or not they practised such virtues.
Hence the matter-of-fact perspective that the author adopts in his clear and concise way of expression is as revealing as it is satisfying.
To begin with and for most of this fascinating account, he writes directly and without apology from his own personal point of view. However, as I read, I came to appreciate that his perspective is so single-minded that I began to wonder if he was capable of putting himself in the shoes of ‘the other’. He writes without even the slightest hint that he might appreciate that a perspective on life other than his own, worthy though that may be, might warrant the merest of acknowledgement in his reflections.
In the most direct and captivating manner, he covers his early work with the Inland Revenue, the tax authority in the UK, his courtship and marriage, the birth of his children, family holidays and his risk-taking switch from a secure public service career to that of a salesman dependent on his own discipline and capabilities to generate enough to satisfy a growing family.
A life-threatening accident in France, however, brings about a spiritual uneasiness that leads him to doubt not his religion but the narrow doctrines that bind him to the Exclusive Brethren.
He accepts an invitation to join the Billy Graham Crusade when it arrives in the UK and proves to be an unequalled organiser, promoter and interviewer. From there, his professional life takes a change in direction and he puts to highly productive use his knowledge of Christian scripture, his capacity to preach, his expertise in project and event management and his advanced communication expertise.
It is as if the first part of his life were practised and enjoyed locally and the later part of his life represented the harvest of all of the intellectual efforts he had made earlier.
But work with the Billy Graham Crusade only serves to hone his skills and he becomes a radio presenter on behalf of spiritual and economic development in some of the most interesting parts in the world – the Seychelles, India and Africa.
At that point the reader, though not the author, begins to appreciate the role that the author’s wife and family play in backing him up, in supporting his career and his personal life, devoted though it may be to a higher power.
Despite justifying, for the greater part of his life, his decisions, career changes and his demanding work schedule as a binding sacrifice to God’s work on Earth, John L. Fear reaches yet another level of appreciation of life’s complexities and begins to be more reflective and self-critical as he nears his end. The British intellectual and controversialist Malcolm Muggeridge, a larger-than-life figure in 1970s Britain, has a critical role in the author’s intellectual development. Towards the end, John acknowledges, "It is better to be kindly than to be right." If only we could all reach that conclusion earlier, much suffering would be avoided.
It’s a cliché that behind every successful man is a woman. In John L. Fear’s case it is likely the truth that not only was his wife his support, but so were his children. The author claims that Billy Graham was an absentee husband and parent. Perhaps he made that claim knowing that he had to rationalise his own long absences from his family when the demands of his overseas work made even a regular letter penned to those back home was impossible to accomplish or competed with tasks given a higher priority.
Nevertheless, John’s entire family support him at the end. Wounds are bound, ruptures are healed and he goes to his maker if not in comfort, in peace.
This is a fine piece of writing, beautifully edited by his literary son, Robert.
July 30, 2020
Author John L. Fear, with succinct editing by his son Robert Fear, provides an insightful memoir of John’s life, which was framed by his inclusion in the Exclusive Brethren. This secretive and restrictive Christian sect shaped John’s life. The religious doctrine, coupled with his childhood that was book ended between the 1929 Stock Market Crash and World War II.
Conflicting views between the Brethren and other religious viewpoints started when John attended school. I found it remarkable that young John had this insight at such a young age.
“I began to attend primary school at the age of five. The nearest one to our home was St. John the Baptist School. This was a Church of England school and it was here that I realised, for the first time, that conflicts would arise between those of us brought up in a strict Exclusive Brethren home and the world outside. It was quite a painful awakening and even at that young age I remember blaming my parents for neglecting to prepare me for these difficulties.
The problem arose immediately when I returned home after my first day at school. I told my parents that school began with a religious meeting. They appeared to know nothing about the daily act of worship known as Morning Assembly.”
The rich, vivid details of John’s life and times across each of the sections give the reader clear pictures of the people and times. Commitment to the Exclusive Brethren became questionable when leadership dictated that members maintain isolation from the rest of the world. The family was excommunicated and started down the road to religious recovery.
“James Taylor had been vitriolic in his condemnation of the Open Brethren because of their alleged compromise with the world and the ‘apostate church’ at large. I had been taught from my youth that the Open (or Christian) Brethren were, in Mr. Taylor’s words, “the dirtiest ditch in Christendom”. I passed this comment onto the Brethren representatives who visited me. They just smiled and said they did not mind what I thought of them as long as I knew that my fellowship would be valued if I cared to come to the meetings at any time.”
John’s life drastically altered. His world opened up to the possibilities when he joined the team of Billy Graham to serve God. The hindsight of retirement allowed John to reflect on his wrongs taking steps to atone where possible.
I found the memoir compelling. I can recommend this to those who want to understand how entwined historical and religious events can make a difference. I enjoyed John’s story of his evolution.
Conflicting views between the Brethren and other religious viewpoints started when John attended school. I found it remarkable that young John had this insight at such a young age.
“I began to attend primary school at the age of five. The nearest one to our home was St. John the Baptist School. This was a Church of England school and it was here that I realised, for the first time, that conflicts would arise between those of us brought up in a strict Exclusive Brethren home and the world outside. It was quite a painful awakening and even at that young age I remember blaming my parents for neglecting to prepare me for these difficulties.
The problem arose immediately when I returned home after my first day at school. I told my parents that school began with a religious meeting. They appeared to know nothing about the daily act of worship known as Morning Assembly.”
The rich, vivid details of John’s life and times across each of the sections give the reader clear pictures of the people and times. Commitment to the Exclusive Brethren became questionable when leadership dictated that members maintain isolation from the rest of the world. The family was excommunicated and started down the road to religious recovery.
“James Taylor had been vitriolic in his condemnation of the Open Brethren because of their alleged compromise with the world and the ‘apostate church’ at large. I had been taught from my youth that the Open (or Christian) Brethren were, in Mr. Taylor’s words, “the dirtiest ditch in Christendom”. I passed this comment onto the Brethren representatives who visited me. They just smiled and said they did not mind what I thought of them as long as I knew that my fellowship would be valued if I cared to come to the meetings at any time.”
John’s life drastically altered. His world opened up to the possibilities when he joined the team of Billy Graham to serve God. The hindsight of retirement allowed John to reflect on his wrongs taking steps to atone where possible.
I found the memoir compelling. I can recommend this to those who want to understand how entwined historical and religious events can make a difference. I enjoyed John’s story of his evolution.
August 9, 2023
I've given this book 5* because it is a unique story about John who lived through an era which is gone forever from his perspective as an ardent believer in God and Christ which is unusual in a personal memoir. It is also a fascinating travel memoir later in the book, detailing John's travels to Seychelles, India and Kenya. The memoir moves through various stages of John's life from childhood to retirement and beyond. The first part is written more as a traditional memoir with the later sections presented as extracts from diaries and letters. But it all knits together as a whole somehow and works well altogether, showcasing how John's life flowered and expanded beyond the narrow Exclusive Brethren boundaries to travelling the world as an interviewer and writer for Christian organisations. There's a detailed section about his work with Billy Graham - which seems to have been the door that opened up to a wider vista for young John.
I was interested to read the book having had a scrape with a legalistic sect (the Christadelphians - many similarities with the EB) myself many years ago so I know how compelling belonging to an "exclusive" religious body can become and how painful and difficult it is to extricate oneself from even (even harder for someone like John whose parents were involved in it). There isn't much detail about the difficulties involved in this so unless the reader has a personal experience of the pain involved, one has to use one's imagination to understand that leaving such an organisation has huge psychological, emotional and (for John and his wife who never lose their faith in God) spiritual issues to navigate. John also records the painful experience of two baby losses.
John rubs shoulders with many of the famous evangelical names of the 80s, which widens his horizons with travel - though his frequent stints abroad he finds more difficult to leave his family behind each time. One wonders had there been mobile phones with WhatsApp and such like, the lovely letters might never have been written! As time progresses there are reunions with long-lost family as the pain of separation eases.
The memoir concludes with John's illness and passing, and his words in the epilogue that it is "better to be loving than to be right" will ring true with much poignancy for anyone who has escaped a legalistic sect or cult.
I was interested to read the book having had a scrape with a legalistic sect (the Christadelphians - many similarities with the EB) myself many years ago so I know how compelling belonging to an "exclusive" religious body can become and how painful and difficult it is to extricate oneself from even (even harder for someone like John whose parents were involved in it). There isn't much detail about the difficulties involved in this so unless the reader has a personal experience of the pain involved, one has to use one's imagination to understand that leaving such an organisation has huge psychological, emotional and (for John and his wife who never lose their faith in God) spiritual issues to navigate. John also records the painful experience of two baby losses.
John rubs shoulders with many of the famous evangelical names of the 80s, which widens his horizons with travel - though his frequent stints abroad he finds more difficult to leave his family behind each time. One wonders had there been mobile phones with WhatsApp and such like, the lovely letters might never have been written! As time progresses there are reunions with long-lost family as the pain of separation eases.
The memoir concludes with John's illness and passing, and his words in the epilogue that it is "better to be loving than to be right" will ring true with much poignancy for anyone who has escaped a legalistic sect or cult.
November 6, 2020
What a remarkable book this has proved to be. John Fear was a man born to be a broadcaster. He started life as the son of a family devoted to a specific religious sect, the Exclusive Brethren. During his upbringing he embarked on a career of preaching and broadcasting God’s word that carried him through his life long after he divorced himself from the Brethren. Eventually it led to his becoming a radio broadcaster in countries as diverse as India, Kenya and the Syechelles.
When I started reading this book, I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy it, but the reviews were excellent, so I dipped in. I soon got hooked by his account of his early life in Leicester as a Brethren son. It was fascinating and I always enjoy memoirs of childhood.
I was also intrigued because the editor, John Fear’s son Robert, has written his own travel memoirs and it has to be said that his books have no religious aspect to them. Nevertheless, Robert has done his father proud and the book is both compelling and absorbing. When reading his diaries and letters home, I had an impression of great humanity, and also a love of life and travel. I can imagine that of all things, this last is what he gave his son.
John Fear comes across as a man who is constantly searching for the right path; he is human, flawed, rebellious and troubled. But he is also a lover of life, good cheer, football and fun. He meets an amazing array of celebrities during his career and his insights on these people also make very interesting reading. That said, it is John’s multi-faceted personality that makes this book such a great read; that and his beautiful writing.
This is a book that takes time to read and savour. It is both an impressive autobiography and a moving personal memoir – a fantastic tribute by a son to his father. I can recommend it very highly.
When I started reading this book, I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy it, but the reviews were excellent, so I dipped in. I soon got hooked by his account of his early life in Leicester as a Brethren son. It was fascinating and I always enjoy memoirs of childhood.
I was also intrigued because the editor, John Fear’s son Robert, has written his own travel memoirs and it has to be said that his books have no religious aspect to them. Nevertheless, Robert has done his father proud and the book is both compelling and absorbing. When reading his diaries and letters home, I had an impression of great humanity, and also a love of life and travel. I can imagine that of all things, this last is what he gave his son.
John Fear comes across as a man who is constantly searching for the right path; he is human, flawed, rebellious and troubled. But he is also a lover of life, good cheer, football and fun. He meets an amazing array of celebrities during his career and his insights on these people also make very interesting reading. That said, it is John’s multi-faceted personality that makes this book such a great read; that and his beautiful writing.
This is a book that takes time to read and savour. It is both an impressive autobiography and a moving personal memoir – a fantastic tribute by a son to his father. I can recommend it very highly.
April 21, 2019
Exclusive Pedigree tells the story of John Fear; a man who grew up in Leicester during the 2nd world war and who was bought up in the Exclusive Brethren. From reading the title and description of the book, I expected to gain more insight into the practices of the Exclusive Brethren, however, there was only a very short section mentioned, this made me feel that the title and description was quite misleading. This is a shame as the book itself is very well written and give lots of detail about other interested sections of John Fear's life, such as the great detail of when he was a child experiencing the events of the 2nd world war which really grabbed my attention, especially since I only live down the road from Leicester. Other parts of the book such as his time promoting CCTV Relays in 25 centres in the Billy Graham crusades which caught Billy's attention and subsequently lead to John joining Billy Grahams team. This book is really a detailed account of John Fears life and how God calls him and directs him in different periods of his life. It is not a book about his journey in and out of the EB as only a few pages of the book are dedicated to this (which is why I left 3 stars). The story however is of interest and well worth reading as long as you go into it to more read about John's life rather than the Exclusive Brethren. I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, and I gave an honest review.
December 17, 2022
A very interesting Memoir written partially by John, himself but also through letters and diaries and finished off by his son, Robert. John's early life being raised in a cult, "The Exclusive Brethren" was really interesting as it was a very restrictive lifestyle similar to the simple lives of the Amish. Eventually this breakaway sect became extreme and unreasonably controlling of it's members. Ultimately John finds the strength to withdraw himself and his family leaving loved ones and close friends behind. John continued to live a very interesting, deeply Christian life travelling, ministering and doing religious radio interviews and at one point even worked alongside the famous evangelist, Billy Graham through which he met some major celebrities. The book was well written and the content captivating. I did however find myself feeling rather sorry for John's wife, Mary who was often left at home raising the children while John was working away in foreign countries for months at a time, however it sounds like John was a very kind and caring person, loving husband and great with his children and Grandchildren when he was available to them.
November 11, 2021
"There have been so many wonderful reviews already written about this very special memoir that I hardly know what I can add, except to say that John Fear was a remarkable man, a faithful and true husband and father, an innovative, intelligent salesman, (later to become a broadcaster of renown--to Billy Graham, no less!) and most importantly, a good man of God. His memoir was fascinating in its many references to major historical events in the world (WW2, the Stock Market crash) but also in the celebrities he met along the way. As a born again Christian, I found his descriptions of life among the "Brethren" very interesting to say the least, and was happy to read that he and his family eventually left this controlling sect. Most of all though, I was touched by John's love of his family and deeply moved by the scenes written by his children about his last days. He truly left a beautiful legacy for his sons and daughter. All in all, John Fear's life was one that was well-lived, as a father, a husband and a faithful Christian. I'm glad I was able to read his story."
September 6, 2024
I found this book very interesting - and that's saying something for me, because I'm quite picky, especially with long books. It covers John's whole life, and is very varied. He was born in 1929 and lived through the Depression and the Second World War. He and his siblings had to watch the victory street parties through the window because the Exclusive Brethren didn't allow them to celebrate or socialise with others. But the book is about so much more than just that.
In the intro, John explains that he's gone into detail on various subjects and says that the reader is welcome to skip over any that don't interest them. I liked that invitation, but I only skipped over one small bit. I loved the later chapters where he was a journalist in India, the Seychelles and Africa. I learned a lot of things I hadn't known before about different places, time periods and world events.
In the intro, John explains that he's gone into detail on various subjects and says that the reader is welcome to skip over any that don't interest them. I liked that invitation, but I only skipped over one small bit. I loved the later chapters where he was a journalist in India, the Seychelles and Africa. I learned a lot of things I hadn't known before about different places, time periods and world events.
January 8, 2020
This was an interesting read about a man who had an amazing life. He was born and raised into the Exclusive Brethren from which he broke away as an adult. I learned a lot about the beliefs and practices of such a religious organization. The author became involved with and worked for Billy Graham's organization where his responsibilities were described and how much time he was away from his family. These two areas of the book were enlightening, but the second half involved too much detail and written like a daily diary entry.
October 19, 2020
This isn't a memoir that "exposes" any nasty secrets of a religious sect. It's a lovely testimony of one's man's journey through life and the different events that had an impact on his religious beliefs. I could feel the heartbreak in his soul when the Exclusive Brethren became something he could no longer believe in. But it gave him the opportunity to seek God through other avenues, because John Fear had a thirst for knowledge. Religion wasn't a belief for him; it was his way of life. This is something his family can treasure for generations.
December 15, 2024
This book was written by John, then his 2 sons. I enjoyed the writing style of the later chapters by his sons much easier to read and this were less about the day to day toil of his life and more about his ministry work.
I wish the while book was written by his sons as I enjoyed the style of this much better.
I don’t feel I learned as much about life in the Brethren that I had expected to, which was disappointing.
I wish the while book was written by his sons as I enjoyed the style of this much better.
I don’t feel I learned as much about life in the Brethren that I had expected to, which was disappointing.
April 1, 2017
Very interesting read
I had purchased a kindle copy of Exclusive Pedigree but then I won a paperback copy in a competition. I was thrilled so put it at the top of my reading list. Very interesting learning of John's life in and out of the Brethren. I felt from his writings that John was a very warm and generous man, and it must have been very hard for him and the decisions he had to make. I also enjoyed reading of the history of that time in England. I feel John's son Robert Fear must be very proud to do the editing on his Father's memoir. A great read.
I had purchased a kindle copy of Exclusive Pedigree but then I won a paperback copy in a competition. I was thrilled so put it at the top of my reading list. Very interesting learning of John's life in and out of the Brethren. I felt from his writings that John was a very warm and generous man, and it must have been very hard for him and the decisions he had to make. I also enjoyed reading of the history of that time in England. I feel John's son Robert Fear must be very proud to do the editing on his Father's memoir. A great read.
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