In the prologue, the author
explains that this book is the result of his own reflections on “The Hobbit,”
which eventually took him back to God, the one who has made his life meaningful
by giving it a purpose, just as Bilbo’s life, through the fulfillment of his
purpose, found its true meaning.
The chapters have a simple and
straightforward format. First, there is
an extract from “The Hobbit,” which is followed by an analytical description of
the approach and attitude towards God that can be found in several people in
the Bible. As a valuable token, each
chapter is closed with a simple and deep statement that summarizes the
spiritual lesson we can learn from Bilbo’s own path.
Despite the simplicity of the
format, the deep and transcendental insights of each chapter are worthy to be
savored slowly, even more than once.
This is one of the few books that have stirred in me the wish to reread
chapters and paragraphs, even sentences…
Moreover, the richness of the words
Mr. Ware uses is rarely found in today’s popular literature, making this a
delightful read for anyone who appreciates the vast possibilities of a higher
linguistic register. Precisely because
of this, I would definitely recommend this book as a teaching tool in any
literature or applied theology class; it is well worth the experience. Besides
this, his numerous end notes and bibliography will prove to be good references. I
can also picture this book being used as a devotional, particularly by those
who like Tolkien or this kind of stories.
And just like the author himself
states, this book describes a journey of spiritual discovery, but is not the decisive
authority on the matter, very probably the reason why Bible quotes and
principles are present throughout the book.
It is his way of writing about how the great Author of life is always
shaping our path.
I received a complimentary copy
of this book from Tyndale House Publishers, in exchange for an honest
review. This has not biased my opinion.
No comments:
Post a Comment