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The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World
Was this a new life - or a death sentence?
When Rankin Johnson boards a flight to Israel, he expects an adventure in archeology. But the airplane comes under attack and explodes in midair. Rankin shouts, "God, I'm yours!" Instantly, he's in some other place. An angel informs Rankin the Lord is pleased to accept his offer. He dubs Rankin "the next Fithian" - a messenger from God, not to Earth, but to planet Zemna in the alternate dimension. What happened to the previous Fithian? "He was killed," the angel says before vanishing.
On Zemna, Rankin finds a perplexing, violent world. Futuristic technology mingles with primitive ways. Also, a bizarre symbol-the Intersection of All Things-has appeared on his left palm. It's a tool to aid his mission, but how? Rankin is supposed to share God's message with this planet. Instead, he becomes a slave. What he really wants is a trip back to Earth.
With the aid of a brother and sister who become his best friends, Rankin escapes. He hopes to fulfill his mission and return home as fast as possible. But now there's a price on Rankin's head. More than one Zemnan would rather kill him for the reward than hear what he has to say.
When Rankin Johnson boards a flight to Israel, he expects an adventure in archeology. But the airplane comes under attack and explodes in midair. Rankin shouts, "God, I'm yours!" Instantly, he's in some other place. An angel informs Rankin the Lord is pleased to accept his offer. He dubs Rankin "the next Fithian" - a messenger from God, not to Earth, but to planet Zemna in the alternate dimension. What happened to the previous Fithian? "He was killed," the angel says before vanishing.
On Zemna, Rankin finds a perplexing, violent world. Futuristic technology mingles with primitive ways. Also, a bizarre symbol-the Intersection of All Things-has appeared on his left palm. It's a tool to aid his mission, but how? Rankin is supposed to share God's message with this planet. Instead, he becomes a slave. What he really wants is a trip back to Earth.
With the aid of a brother and sister who become his best friends, Rankin escapes. He hopes to fulfill his mission and return home as fast as possible. But now there's a price on Rankin's head. More than one Zemnan would rather kill him for the reward than hear what he has to say.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2021
2 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Rick Barry
5 books171 followersRick Barry is the author of The Methuselah Project, Methuselah Project S.O.S., Gunner's Run, Kiriath's Quest, The Next Fithian, plus over 200 published articles and fiction stories. In addition to being a World War II buff, he has visited Eastern Europe over 50 times in connection with Christian ministries. He holds a degree in foreign languages and speaks Russian. Visit Rick at these sites:
Website: www.rickcbarry.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AuthorRickBarry
X: @WriterRickBarry
Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JPA39S.
Website: www.rickcbarry.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AuthorRickBarry
X: @WriterRickBarry
Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JPA39S.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 16, 2021
“...if God does the equipping, does it matter whether you’re a fisherman, or a tax collector, or a high school senior?”
After a course of events, ordinary teen Rankin Johnson is sent on a mission by God in another dimension. I have to say, sci-fi is not my usual pick; however, I’ve loved the author’s previous books so I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad that I did! The “ordinary teen” approach is amazing as it allows people to put themselves in Rankin’s shoes and be challenged as well. Sure, we may not be transported to another dimension, but are we ready to “...give an answer always to every man that asketh...” in our everyday life? This book was a different sort of adventure, but a good one. Well worth the read. :)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After a course of events, ordinary teen Rankin Johnson is sent on a mission by God in another dimension. I have to say, sci-fi is not my usual pick; however, I’ve loved the author’s previous books so I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad that I did! The “ordinary teen” approach is amazing as it allows people to put themselves in Rankin’s shoes and be challenged as well. Sure, we may not be transported to another dimension, but are we ready to “...give an answer always to every man that asketh...” in our everyday life? This book was a different sort of adventure, but a good one. Well worth the read. :)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2021
Fast paced adventure with a little of everything: adventure, scifi, fantasy, inspirational, a touch of humor, and a little romance. You won't be able to put it down. Originally I thought it would be more for just science fiction fans, but I've talked to a few others who read it when it first came out and some of them do not like scifi genre and did not think they would like it, but ended up loving it.
October 9, 2021
I’m not generally into Sci-Fi but have high regard for Mr Barry’s work. After I got past all the unfamiliar names and words, the story had me in its grasp. I always appreciate the Christian truths he includes in his work. I highly recommend for teens and lovers of science fiction. And, yes, Rick, I’ll be anxiously awaiting the next Fithian story!!
December 14, 2021
The creativity of this story is sure to grab the attention of science fiction fans. With a Christian theme it is perfect for young adults and adults. I loved our main character because he is chosen to spread the Word in a world unlike anything seen before.
The minute the plane is in trouble, Rankin is thrust into a place where he is challenged and sent on a mission that astounds him. Leaving his family behind he begins his journey. Now I’m not sure I would be as calm as he seemed when he finds out that he has been chosen by the Creator to share a message. I enjoyed reading about Zemma and it’s vast difference from Earth. Danger awaits him as word gets out that he has arrived.
What I liked most about the story was the reminder that we all have been called to be disciples and share His Word with others. Rankin is obedient and says, “God, I’m yours.” Would we be brave enough to do the same? Could we go to a foreign place and speak about God? I like how the author uses a seventeen year old to explore what it would be like to follow His lead and overcome obstacles that could harm him. His faith is strong and his urgency to succeed is important to him. I enjoyed reading how Rankin became more sure of himself as he fights for the truth to be told.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
The minute the plane is in trouble, Rankin is thrust into a place where he is challenged and sent on a mission that astounds him. Leaving his family behind he begins his journey. Now I’m not sure I would be as calm as he seemed when he finds out that he has been chosen by the Creator to share a message. I enjoyed reading about Zemma and it’s vast difference from Earth. Danger awaits him as word gets out that he has arrived.
What I liked most about the story was the reminder that we all have been called to be disciples and share His Word with others. Rankin is obedient and says, “God, I’m yours.” Would we be brave enough to do the same? Could we go to a foreign place and speak about God? I like how the author uses a seventeen year old to explore what it would be like to follow His lead and overcome obstacles that could harm him. His faith is strong and his urgency to succeed is important to him. I enjoyed reading how Rankin became more sure of himself as he fights for the truth to be told.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
December 11, 2021
Rankin is a teenager who is suddenly tasked with a mission from God - to be his witness (Fithian) to a world not in our dimension. Throughout this book, we follow along with Rankin's journey as he struggles with his calling from God, a new world, and how is he to share the good news with a planet that is desperately struggling with this new distance from their creator.
When I started this book, I definitely struggled to get into it. I found the initial writing to be a little choppy and the premise a struggle to follow. I also found a few of the chapter breaks to be disorienting and hard to follow what was going on in the plot. About one-third of the way through I started to become invested in Rankin and his friends and how he would fulfil his mission on this world.
One of my favourite things in this book was its description on how things were for the world before their separation from the Creator. Being a music lover, the sections that talked about singing and worship were especially meaningful and beautiful to me.
This book was a solid 3.5 stars (I typically uprate a half rating if the half is not available) for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book Triggers: Death and Violence. There is definitely a lot of description of death and violence within this book. It is never treated lightly and is almost always left me with a feeling of disgust, horror, and/or grief at the situation.
When I started this book, I definitely struggled to get into it. I found the initial writing to be a little choppy and the premise a struggle to follow. I also found a few of the chapter breaks to be disorienting and hard to follow what was going on in the plot. About one-third of the way through I started to become invested in Rankin and his friends and how he would fulfil his mission on this world.
One of my favourite things in this book was its description on how things were for the world before their separation from the Creator. Being a music lover, the sections that talked about singing and worship were especially meaningful and beautiful to me.
This book was a solid 3.5 stars (I typically uprate a half rating if the half is not available) for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book Triggers: Death and Violence. There is definitely a lot of description of death and violence within this book. It is never treated lightly and is almost always left me with a feeling of disgust, horror, and/or grief at the situation.
December 26, 2021
I needed an adventure. I got one, with Sci-Fi, filled with fantasy, bordering on a epic, without being devoid of God, and including a great sense of humor and many, many little mini-lessons, and even some romance. What a great read this is! Excellent world building gives way to parallels that can rank up there with some big name authors like C.S. Lewis, while being steeped in beautiful reminds of the Word and amazing lifeskill reminders. What does it take to proclaim "the good news" and deal with the issues of death, sin, and grief?
This book is not just a YA, it will work for most ages, even advanced younger teens. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I need to get hardcopies of this book, it's going to be high on my gift list!
My digital copy came from Celebrate Lit. This review is mine and it's what I think about this book. A positive review is never required.
This book is not just a YA, it will work for most ages, even advanced younger teens. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I need to get hardcopies of this book, it's going to be high on my gift list!
My digital copy came from Celebrate Lit. This review is mine and it's what I think about this book. A positive review is never required.
December 26, 2021
Love me some Science Fiction and this author did it good. It wasn’t just straight up science fiction but it had more mixed in. There was plenty of action and questions that needed resolved to keep me engrossed and turning the pages.
I think this is good for YA (and the message in it is really good) but I also enjoyed it. I think this author has a great writing style and engaging story. The worldbuilding and characters are great. This book does introduce a lot of characters so be prepared, that is normal for the first book like this. I cannot wait for the next
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I think this is good for YA (and the message in it is really good) but I also enjoyed it. I think this author has a great writing style and engaging story. The worldbuilding and characters are great. This book does introduce a lot of characters so be prepared, that is normal for the first book like this. I cannot wait for the next
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
October 17, 2021
This is a great and unique read, unlike anything I've read before! My best description of it is a mashup of a missionary biography, StarTrek, and The Hunger Games. With a main character who is 17, teens and young adults will love it, but I hope it doesn't get relegated to YA shelves alone because it is just an all-around good Christian fantasy story. I loved it, and I think my husband will enjoy it as well. It is non-stop action, non-formulaic, and full of twists and turns that made it very hard for me to put down. It is possible that some readers may find this book a bit too preachy, but I personally enjoyed the clear presentations of the Gospel given throughout the book and the emphasis on sharing the Gospel across cultures. This would be a great spiritually-edifying gift for readers who enjoy books like The Hunger Games.
I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from BookSirens.
I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from BookSirens.
October 9, 2021
From the first words of this story to the final sentences, I was engrossed and enjoyed every minute of that time. Rankin Johnson’s character is well-developed, realistic, and relatable. A teenager on a flight to Israel, he is grabbed from the jaws of death after the plane is shot down by terrorists. The angel who saves him, Jaylel, drops him on a strange alternate universe. “You are the next Fithian,” Jaylel tells Rankin, informing him he has been brought to Zemna to bring the gospel to those who need the truth. Jaylel promptly vanishes, and it doesn’t take long for Rankin to find trouble, big trouble.
The world of Zemna is a world in chaos. Retaining its Edenic state until recently. Now the most powerful of those who bought into the lies rule by force, enslaving or killing the weak and creating a dog-eat-dog environment. Rankin is faced with a seemingly impossible task that will push him to his limits. The world building here is excellent taking me on a journey that filled my senses.
I highly recommend The Next Fithian and look forward to the next book in this series.
The world of Zemna is a world in chaos. Retaining its Edenic state until recently. Now the most powerful of those who bought into the lies rule by force, enslaving or killing the weak and creating a dog-eat-dog environment. Rankin is faced with a seemingly impossible task that will push him to his limits. The world building here is excellent taking me on a journey that filled my senses.
I highly recommend The Next Fithian and look forward to the next book in this series.
November 11, 2021
The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World is the beginning the Next Fithian by Rick Barry. I am not a huge fan of the science fiction genre. However, this one that gives me a good reason why it is a good idea to sometimes to go outside my comfort zone. I thought it was an entertaining read that I could not easily predict. I liked it.
The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World is getting four stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoyed reading fantasy and science fiction. I would be interested in reading the next installment from the Next Fithian series when it releases.
I received a copy of The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World is getting four stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoyed reading fantasy and science fiction. I would be interested in reading the next installment from the Next Fithian series when it releases.
I received a copy of The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
September 25, 2021
5 stars, Refreshing sci-fi adventure
THE NEXT FITHIAN: AN ORDINARY TEEN ON A STRANGE, NEW WORLD (NEXT FITHIAN #1)
By Rick Barry
Published by: Fithian Publications
As a constant reader, I've found that I adore The Next Fithian because it combines some of the aspects that I look forwards to in a novel and packages the story up in a pretty green book. Science Fiction, Fantasy, a Christian author, friendships, a superhero that anyone can relate to, which all combine to make an attractive novel, not only the cover but inside, as well.
It is refreshing not to have the vulgarities that are so often in adventure books, these days. Highly recommend. Though the book is set in a futuristic, fantasy world, it can help to solidify the morals and beliefs of the people in your life. As a middle-aged grandmother, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I'd like to purchase the paper-back copy for my grandchildren. I know they'd love the adventure, as well.
I received a complimentary copy of #TheNextFithian @TheNextFithian from @RickBarry @FithianPublications @writerRickBarry #ChristianSciFi #inspyfiction #mustreadseries I was under no obligation to post a review.
THE NEXT FITHIAN: AN ORDINARY TEEN ON A STRANGE, NEW WORLD (NEXT FITHIAN #1)
By Rick Barry
Published by: Fithian Publications
As a constant reader, I've found that I adore The Next Fithian because it combines some of the aspects that I look forwards to in a novel and packages the story up in a pretty green book. Science Fiction, Fantasy, a Christian author, friendships, a superhero that anyone can relate to, which all combine to make an attractive novel, not only the cover but inside, as well.
It is refreshing not to have the vulgarities that are so often in adventure books, these days. Highly recommend. Though the book is set in a futuristic, fantasy world, it can help to solidify the morals and beliefs of the people in your life. As a middle-aged grandmother, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I'd like to purchase the paper-back copy for my grandchildren. I know they'd love the adventure, as well.
I received a complimentary copy of #TheNextFithian @TheNextFithian from @RickBarry @FithianPublications @writerRickBarry #ChristianSciFi #inspyfiction #mustreadseries I was under no obligation to post a review.
October 2, 2021
A Christian Dystopian Sci Fi... sign me up! This was an action packed young adult style novel that kept a very even pace. Several nerdy references throughout that I appreciated! I'm hoping this is a series, so that I can find out what happens next!
December 23, 2021
What I think you should know:
The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange New World by Ricky Berry is YA Christian Science Fiction.
What you might need to know:
Rankin lost his parents who were missionaries prior to the start of this book. He was living with his Grandmother who had taken over raising him.
What I think about this book:
As a YA reader: Berry has created an amazing story! How do you explain Christ and his sacrifice to a whole new world? What would the world have been like if the Fall didn’t occur with Adam and Eve? I love the imaginative turns that Berry took with Zemna, how he chose to depict the society that existed before their fall and how vastly different it is from Earth. It was interesting to see Rankin navigate the differences between the two worlds. I enjoyed every page! This book will leave me thinking for a long time and waiting for the next in the series. I can’t wait to see where the author takes Rankin next.
As the Mom of a YA: I think that his book is going to be perfect for some great discussions with my son about his faith and how he shares his faith and memorizes The Word. Although the author included a small bit of Romance it didn’t overpower the story or make it inappropriate for a YA reader. I highly recommend this book to any YA reader , it would be great to be used with a Homeschool group or a book club!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange New World by Ricky Berry is YA Christian Science Fiction.
What you might need to know:
Rankin lost his parents who were missionaries prior to the start of this book. He was living with his Grandmother who had taken over raising him.
What I think about this book:
As a YA reader: Berry has created an amazing story! How do you explain Christ and his sacrifice to a whole new world? What would the world have been like if the Fall didn’t occur with Adam and Eve? I love the imaginative turns that Berry took with Zemna, how he chose to depict the society that existed before their fall and how vastly different it is from Earth. It was interesting to see Rankin navigate the differences between the two worlds. I enjoyed every page! This book will leave me thinking for a long time and waiting for the next in the series. I can’t wait to see where the author takes Rankin next.
As the Mom of a YA: I think that his book is going to be perfect for some great discussions with my son about his faith and how he shares his faith and memorizes The Word. Although the author included a small bit of Romance it didn’t overpower the story or make it inappropriate for a YA reader. I highly recommend this book to any YA reader , it would be great to be used with a Homeschool group or a book club!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
December 20, 2021
The Next Fithian is a Sci-Fi book that is written by Rick Barry. I read this with my 10 year old son - who has really enjoyed reading and reviewing fantasy and Sci-Fi books lately. This is the second book that I have read by this author. This book sparked some good conversation with my son and I regarding allowing God to use us.
Our main character is Rankin Johnson. Who is on a flight to Isreal in hopes of a future in archeology. HOwever the plane he is on is attacked and explodes in mid-air. Rankin yells “God, I’m yours!” and is transported from the plane to a whole different place. He finds that God has chosen him to be a messenger, however on the planet Zemna.
The planet Zemna is an interesting place. Rankin finds himself on a mission and a price on his head. Can he accomplish his mission and get back to normal? The author has done a great job with the alternative universe. We were able to follow along without any issues.My son and I discussed that God will use us when we ask.
The characters are well written, the storyline engaging. This was a great young adult sci-fi book to read. I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.
Our main character is Rankin Johnson. Who is on a flight to Isreal in hopes of a future in archeology. HOwever the plane he is on is attacked and explodes in mid-air. Rankin yells “God, I’m yours!” and is transported from the plane to a whole different place. He finds that God has chosen him to be a messenger, however on the planet Zemna.
The planet Zemna is an interesting place. Rankin finds himself on a mission and a price on his head. Can he accomplish his mission and get back to normal? The author has done a great job with the alternative universe. We were able to follow along without any issues.My son and I discussed that God will use us when we ask.
The characters are well written, the storyline engaging. This was a great young adult sci-fi book to read. I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.
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November 18, 2021First and foremost, I must start out this review with the obligatory disclosure that science fiction is not my cup of tea, and being in my 30s, I am far from the target young adult audience for whom this book was intended for. So, when I say that it wasn't my favorite--- well, I honestly never would have expected it to be! But for those who DO enjoy science fiction, this story had a lot going for it that I certainly think they will enjoy. The author did a great job of creating this unique world and drawing the reader into it. I think it definitely takes a bit to sort out all the specifics, but then this could also just be me as again this isn't a genre that I typically read and it does take me longer to get into. As a mom, I think it's great to have options like this in the science fiction genre that have a Christian viewpoint so I can feel better about my teen reading it, if he chose to do so. Overall, a unique read. If you enjoy science fiction yourself or have a young reader in your life who does, this is certainly one worth checking out for yourself.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
December 20, 2021
When you think about the possibilities explored by Rick Barry in The Next Fithian your mind could be blown. Are we alone in the universe or is there another planet (or more) with life similar to ours that Christ came to save in addition to those of us on earth? Rankin leaves Earth in a plane explosion and finds himself in the company of an angel headed for another planet that needs to hear the saving story of Christ.
Rick Barry writes an intriguing fantasy novel for young adults that will challenge them to live their lives for Christ no matter their circumstances. The story also impresses the importance of having scripture memorized.
The story does have several nods to the Star Trek franchise that will probably be lost on those who have not watched much Star Trek. In fact they will have no idea what the comments even mean.
I enjoyed The Next Fithian and hope that Rick Barry will be out with book two soon.
The Next Fithian would make an excellent addition to a K-12 Christian school library. I think I would label it high school only due to the violence in the book and some references to sexuality.
I received a complimentary copy of The Next Fithian. This is my honest review.
Rick Barry writes an intriguing fantasy novel for young adults that will challenge them to live their lives for Christ no matter their circumstances. The story also impresses the importance of having scripture memorized.
The story does have several nods to the Star Trek franchise that will probably be lost on those who have not watched much Star Trek. In fact they will have no idea what the comments even mean.
I enjoyed The Next Fithian and hope that Rick Barry will be out with book two soon.
The Next Fithian would make an excellent addition to a K-12 Christian school library. I think I would label it high school only due to the violence in the book and some references to sexuality.
I received a complimentary copy of The Next Fithian. This is my honest review.
January 19, 2022
The Next Fithian is a Christian YA Fantasy.
I wasn’t sure whether I was going to like this book at first, but as I kept reading, I found myself wanting to know what would happen next. By the time I hit the major climax near the book’s end, I was completely hooked.
Things I liked: the interesting story premise, side characters that aren’t completely flat, a main character that has significant growth, good pacing, and creative world-building.
Things I didn’t like: some of the early dialogue seemed a little overly preachy to me especially near the beginning, however, in context of the story and the character speaking, it wasn’t wrong, just a little weird. One character late in the story was excessively evil, but again, it did fit within the story for a purpose.
Overall, I enjoyed The Next Fithian and would recommend it to older teens and young adults who like YA fantasy that is overtly Christian.
I received an advanced review copy of The Next Fithian for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
I wasn’t sure whether I was going to like this book at first, but as I kept reading, I found myself wanting to know what would happen next. By the time I hit the major climax near the book’s end, I was completely hooked.
Things I liked: the interesting story premise, side characters that aren’t completely flat, a main character that has significant growth, good pacing, and creative world-building.
Things I didn’t like: some of the early dialogue seemed a little overly preachy to me especially near the beginning, however, in context of the story and the character speaking, it wasn’t wrong, just a little weird. One character late in the story was excessively evil, but again, it did fit within the story for a purpose.
Overall, I enjoyed The Next Fithian and would recommend it to older teens and young adults who like YA fantasy that is overtly Christian.
I received an advanced review copy of The Next Fithian for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
November 17, 2021
The Next Fithian is Book 1 in An Ordinary Teen on a Strange New World by Rick Barry. This is the first Science Fiction book that is truly a Christian story that I have ever read. And, The Next Fithian is awesome! Rankin is an ordinary 17 year old boy. His missionary parents are dead and he lives with his Grandma Johnson. He leaves to go on a 6 week archeological dig in Israel. When the Boeing777 is attacked, just before the plane exploded, Rankin said, "God, I'm yours!" An angel tells him that God is sending him to another Galaxy to the planet Zemna to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people that live there. This begins a wonderful adventure in a different world. He makes friends with a brother, Prakv, and sister, Theena. As the Fithian, Rankin heals people, performs miracles, and spreads the Gospel. He also discovers where the last Fithian is buried along with his bible. Book 2 should be exciting. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
April 2, 2022
Rick Berry craftily wrote a sci-fi/fantasy that young Christian readers should enjoy. The teenage main character Rankin embarks upon an unexpected journey where he intends to go on an archeological dig to Israel but instead becomes a missionary, Fithian, to people on an alternate planet. Berry utilizes creativity and inventiveness as he weaves the culture of Zemna into a picture the reader can understand.
As an adult reader who does not often read sci-fi, I was still very easily able to transition into the world Berry had created, grow to like and cheer on Rankin, and gladly recommend this book to others who want to step out of their comfort reading zone and read an entertaining and nicely crafted, clean story that definitely calls for the reader to come back for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As an adult reader who does not often read sci-fi, I was still very easily able to transition into the world Berry had created, grow to like and cheer on Rankin, and gladly recommend this book to others who want to step out of their comfort reading zone and read an entertaining and nicely crafted, clean story that definitely calls for the reader to come back for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 1, 2022
This was a very interesting and creative story. There is a strong Christian theme and definitely perfect for young adults and adults as well. The message of the story is what captivated me the most. It is a great reminder that we all have been called to share the Good News with the world and everyone that comes across our paths. The main character encounters this and he is great and he only becomes stronger in his mission as the story goes on.
I definitely recommend this one for young adults but it would also work great as a read aloud if you happen to do that with your kiddos or are a homeschool family like we are.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I definitely recommend this one for young adults but it would also work great as a read aloud if you happen to do that with your kiddos or are a homeschool family like we are.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 26, 2021
On a plane trip to Israel,teenager Rankin Johnson expects to find archaeology. However, when his plane explodes, he finds himself in another dimension as a messenger of God.
The author masterfully illustrates how even those who are young may spread the message of God and His mercy and goodness. Struggling to survive, Rankin works to spread the gospel message.
This book provides a Christian Science fiction story for those who are young or young at heart. So check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
The author masterfully illustrates how even those who are young may spread the message of God and His mercy and goodness. Struggling to survive, Rankin works to spread the gospel message.
This book provides a Christian Science fiction story for those who are young or young at heart. So check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
October 7, 2021
The Next Fithian tells the story of Rankin Fithian, a teenager who ends up far from home with a mission he isn't sure he can accomplish. This exciting adventure has some fun twists and turns and keeps you wanting more. I had a hard time putting it down. As a homeschool mom, I'm always on the lookout for good, encouraging books for my teens, and this is definitely going on the list.
March 23, 2022
This was a fun read.
It made me think about my own testimony and how willing I am to share God's good news.
I can see how young people will like this book because it had a bunch of fun, interesting technology.
I might be interested in reading the next book in this series.
It made me think about my own testimony and how willing I am to share God's good news.
I can see how young people will like this book because it had a bunch of fun, interesting technology.
I might be interested in reading the next book in this series.
March 26, 2022
Amazingly exciting!
The book story and characters kept me glued to the pages and wanting more. A great story making me challenged in how I share the good news of our Savior Jesus the Messiah.
The book story and characters kept me glued to the pages and wanting more. A great story making me challenged in how I share the good news of our Savior Jesus the Messiah.
September 21, 2023
Wonderful Read!
The Next Fithian is a roller coaster of a story that dives into the human heart and how we wrestle with our selfish desires and feelings of inadequacy in the face of God's awesome call on our life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommended it.
The Next Fithian is a roller coaster of a story that dives into the human heart and how we wrestle with our selfish desires and feelings of inadequacy in the face of God's awesome call on our life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommended it.
December 20, 2024
Creative and uplifting
I loved the spiritual journey that paralleled the physical journey Rankin is on. The hope never vanishes no matter how dire the circumstances. Great for teens and those young at heart.
I loved the spiritual journey that paralleled the physical journey Rankin is on. The hope never vanishes no matter how dire the circumstances. Great for teens and those young at heart.
January 27, 2024
Don't Count Out Our Youth!
The Next Fithian was a really great read! Geared towards young adults yet enjoyable for adults as well.
Teenager Rankin ends up in another dimension and is tasked with the job to spread the gospel to a world that does not believe. Sound familiar?
I enjoyed the author's creativity in the presentation of the gospel and the reminder that everyone can share their faith. Ageism which can sometimes be a stumbling block in life and in the church is shredded as the light shone on the fact that we tend to disregard our youth as viable conduits of the gospel.
I admired his skillful incorporation of biblical stories as the adventure heated up. This was not a book I could rush through, I slowed down and enjoyed every delicious bite.
Key Takeaway:
We all have a part to play in sharing the gospel message; our age, doubts, or circumstances are no excuse to avoid doing so.
Job well done Mr. Barry!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Next Fithian was a really great read! Geared towards young adults yet enjoyable for adults as well.
Teenager Rankin ends up in another dimension and is tasked with the job to spread the gospel to a world that does not believe. Sound familiar?
I enjoyed the author's creativity in the presentation of the gospel and the reminder that everyone can share their faith. Ageism which can sometimes be a stumbling block in life and in the church is shredded as the light shone on the fact that we tend to disregard our youth as viable conduits of the gospel.
I admired his skillful incorporation of biblical stories as the adventure heated up. This was not a book I could rush through, I slowed down and enjoyed every delicious bite.
Key Takeaway:
We all have a part to play in sharing the gospel message; our age, doubts, or circumstances are no excuse to avoid doing so.
Job well done Mr. Barry!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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