Books matching: faith and belief
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:A stirring, well-researched biblical novel that breathes fresh life and empathy into the Exodus story - especially for those who love faith-driven historical fiction.
Counted With the Stars by Connilyn Cossette is a Christian Biblical novel set during the time of the Hebrew Exodus from Egypt. The story follows Kiya, an Egyptian woman sold into slavery due to her father's bad business dealings. Through her perspective, the reader experiences the plagues brought upon Egypt and the exodus of the Hebrews. The novel beautifully weaves together the lives of fictional characters with the well-known biblical events, providing a fresh and captivating retelling of the Exodus story.
The book is told through a first-person narrative, focusing on Kiya's journey from a life of luxury to slavery and her encounters with a Hebrew slave named Shira. The author's meticulous research is evident in the accurate portrayal of historical events and the detailed descriptions of the plagues, making the biblical story come alive through the eyes of an Egyptian character. The writing style effectively conveys the emotions and struggles of the characters, drawing the reader into the story and offering a unique perspective on familiar biblical events.
The sound of my knock on the wooden chamber door echoed in the pit of my stomach. Shira opened the door, but the Hebrew girl refused to meet my eyes. Two streaks of fur, one black and one gray, fled t...April 2016•353 pages Becoming Free Indeed: My Story of Disentangling Faith from Fear by Jinger Duggar Vuolo is a memoir that delves into the author's journey of questioning and reevaluating her faith, particularly in the context of her upbringing in a strict religious environment. Jinger shares her experiences of growing up in a family that adhered to the teachings of Bill Gothard, and how she has come to reinterpret and challenge those teachings as she seeks a deeper understanding of her own beliefs. The book explores themes of faith, self-discovery, and the complexities of navigating one's spirituality in a world filled with conflicting ideologies.
Jinger's writing style is described as honest, refreshing, and gentle yet upfront. She shares her personal struggles and growth with sincerity, offering insights into her evolving perspective on religion and spirituality. Through her narrative, Jinger encourages readers to reflect on their own beliefs, emphasizing the importance of having a personal relationship with God and understanding the true essence of faith beyond rigid doctrines.
Here’s one of the many quirky facts about being a Duggar: my husband, Jeremy, and I didn’t watch our first movie together until we were husband and wife. On our honeymoon in 2016, we watched The Truma...January 2024•240 pages- #3
Save:A unique, thought-provoking blend of sci-fi, faith, and moral complexity - definitely one for fans of slower, more contemplative space stories. Not ideal if you prefer your sci-fi at warp speed, but a real gem for those who enjoy layered, literate speculative fiction.
Deadman Switch by Timothy Zahn is a science fiction novel that explores themes of faith, ethics, and morality in a future world where religious beliefs are met with disdain. The story follows Gilead Raca Benedar, a man with unique powers of perception who is sent on a mission to investigate a new property on the planet Solitaire. As he delves deeper into the mysterious cloud surrounding the planet, he uncovers a complex web of deception, manipulation, and hidden agendas. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, blending elements of religion, super abilities, and sci-fi to create a thought-provoking narrative that challenges the characters' beliefs and values.
Zahn's writing style in Deadman Switch is characterized by intricate world-building, well-developed characters, and a carefully crafted plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The novel presents a moral conundrum at its core, raising questions about the limits of ethics, the nature of faith, and the choices individuals make in the face of adversity. The juxtaposition of religious themes with futuristic technology adds depth and complexity to the story, creating a compelling narrative that explores the intersections of spirituality, science, and human nature.
I’D BEEN SITTING AT the window of my small cubicle for nearly an hour, listening to a Joussein symphonaria and watching the intricate drift of sunlight and shadow across the city from a hundred twenty...October 1988•395 pages - #4
Save:A beautiful, haunting, and sharply written memoir of faith lost and freedom gained - with a high emotional cost. Essential reading for anyone interested in stories of transformation, community, and the search for self.
'All Who Go Do Not Return' by Shulem Deen is a memoir that follows the journey of a Skverer Hasid who grapples with his curiosity about the world, leading to his loss of faith and subsequent expulsion from the community. The book provides a detailed and poignant account of his struggle to reconcile his identity and love for his family with his disbelief in God. Deen's writing style is described as graceful, insightful, and compelling, as he narrates his story with sensitivity and honesty, capturing the pain of leaving an insular community.
The book delves into the author's upbringing in a highly restrictive ultra-religious environment, his gradual loss of faith, and the challenges he faces as he tries to navigate a new life outside the community. Deen's narrative arc is highlighted as believable and engaging, offering a deep exploration of his transformation from observance to atheism. The memoir sheds light on the oppressive nature of the Hasidic community, the struggles of individuals who question their faith, and the emotional turmoil of breaking free from deeply ingrained beliefs.
I wasn’t the first to be expelled from our village, though I’d never known any of the others. I’d only heard talk of them, hushed reminiscences of ancient episodes in the history of our half-century-o...March 2015•320 pages - #5
Save:A witty, inventive satire with a big heart - a great choice for readers wanting something light, offbeat, and just a little bit profound. Not for everyone, but memorable and refreshing for those who appreciate subtle humor and original storytelling.
Readers describe "Salmon Fishing in the Yemen" as a unique and humorous novel that follows the story of a fisheries scientist who is tasked with an unusual project of introducing salmon to Yemen for political reasons. The book is written in a variety of formats including diary entries, emails, and interviews, providing an engaging and unconventional storytelling approach. The plot revolves around the challenges faced during the implementation of this seemingly impossible project, intertwined with elements of romance, political satire, and themes of faith and belief.
2006•348 pages - #6
Save:A witty, thoughtful, and offbeat look at faith and growing up that’s bound to spark conversation - ideal for curious teens and open-minded adults alike, but it may not win over fans of more conventional or action-driven stories.
'Godless' by Pete Hautman follows the story of Jason Bock, a teenager who, bored with his Catholic upbringing, decides to create his own religion centered around the town's water tower. What starts as a joke soon spirals out of control, leading to unexpected consequences and challenges for Jason and his group of followers. The novel delves into themes of faith, adolescence, and rebellion against societal norms, all while maintaining a balance between humor and serious introspection. Hautman's writing style captivates readers with its imaginative concept and thought-provoking exploration of religion and belief.
Getting punched hard in the face is a singular experience. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a little too cocky, obnoxious, or insensitive. I also recommend it to people who think they’re smart e...June 2004•224 pages - #7
Save:A swift, satirical poke at religion, academia, and publishing - funny, clever, and full of bite, but not for those seeking depth or comfort. Best enjoyed by readers with a taste for smart, dark humor.
'The Fire Gospel' by Michel Faber is a modern retelling of the Prometheus myth, where Canadian academic Theo Griepenkerl discovers a set of scrolls in Iraq written by Malchus, an eyewitness to the Crucifixion of Christ. Theo translates these scrolls, which become known as the Fifth Gospel, and leads to fame and fortune. The book delves into the impact of this discovery on Theo's life, the conflicts between faith and facts, and the satire on modern culture and publishing industry.
The museum curator swung open another antique door and, as if on cue, a lion's head fell off its body. A big stone lion's head, carved centuries ago: smack on the floor. Splinters of ceramic tile jump... - #8
Save:A moving, character-driven YA about friendship, faith, and finding your truth - though it starts slow, the emotional payoff is well worth it for the right reader.
'Little Do We Know' by Tamara Ireland Stone revolves around the long-term friendship between Hannah and Emory, who have been neighbors since childhood but are now estranged due to a misunderstanding. The story delves into themes of faith, friendship, betrayal, and family as the two friends navigate their differences and challenges. The plot is narrated through alternating chapters from Hannah and Emory's perspectives, providing insight into their individual paths and struggles. When Emory's boyfriend, Luke, faces a life-threatening accident and Hannah finds him, the trio must confront their beliefs and relationships to move forward.
The writing style of 'Little Do We Know' is praised for its authenticity in portraying teenage characters and their actions. The story is described as engaging, with relatable characters facing challenging circumstances that test their relationships. addresses issues such as faith, friendship, and the complexities of teenage life with depth and sensitivity, making it a compelling read that explores the themes of self-discovery and personal beliefs.
Mom was alone. I could tell by her shoulder. When David stayed over, it was bare, with a thin strip of pink or black silk peeking out from between the covers. When he wasn’t there, she slept in one of...June 2018•419 pages - #9
Save:A thoughtful, melancholic exploration of faith and human need, gorgeously written but definitely not light reading. Worth it for the writing and ideas - best for readers who appreciate literary fiction over tidy endings.
In Our Lady of the Forest by David Guterson, the story revolves around Ann Holmes, a homeless young girl who has a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Oregon forest. The novel explores Ann's encounters with various characters, including a fellow mushroom picker, a local priest questioning his faith, and an out-of-work logger struggling with his destiny. The narrative unfolds in a matter-of-fact tone, delving into the characters' perspectives while not being overly religious or sentimental. The book tackles themes of faith, skepticism, gullibility, and the manipulation of belief, painting a vivid picture of a small town in the Pacific Northwest grappling with the repercussions of Ann's supposed visions.
The girl’s errand in the forest that day was to gather chanterelle mushrooms in a bucket to sell in town at dusk. According to her own account and the accounts of others in the North Fork Campground w...2002•336 pages - #10
Save:Bracingly original and deeply irreverent, "Towing Jehovah" is both a witty adventure and a philosophical playground. If you appreciate sharp satire and aren't afraid to dive into the sacred and profane, it's a genuinely memorable (and award-winning) read.
In "Towing Jehovah," author James Morrow presents a thought-provoking and satirical exploration of the consequences of discovering the dead body of God floating in the ocean. The plot follows Captain Van Horne as he navigates the challenges of towing God's massive body to an icy grave while facing opposition from both religious believers and non-believers. The writing style is described as unique, preposterous, outrageous, sacrilegious, heartfelt, thought-provoking, hilarious, and moving, making it a modern classic that invites discussions on spirituality and morality.
THE IRREDUCIBLE STRANGENESS of the universe was first made manifest to Anthony Van Horne on his fiftieth birthday, when a despondent angel named Raphael, a being with luminous white wings and a halo t...1993•380 pages
