I Found It

I am a firm believer in the value of historical fiction. It is an effortless way for the reader to learn some valuable history and its attendant lessons. This learning is effortless because the story is captivating in itself and perhaps worth reading even without the true parts. But the historical settings and events and people make it that much more worthwhile.

I gained a lifelong interest in the modern nation of Israel (and even made a trip there) by reading The Zion Chronicles by Bodie Thoene. My best friend learned her US History by reading The House of Winslow series by Gilbert Morris. And now I have found some good historical fiction based on Biblical history (I have been disappointed by many other attempts). I was able to download to my Nook a free eBook by Lynn Austin, the first of a five book series called Chronicles of the Kings.

 

Mrs Austin weaves a captivating storyline while informing us about a whole lot of historical, Biblical truth. She did her homework and got things right. Learn about King Ahaz. Learn about King Hezekiah. Learn about Prophet Isaiah. Learn about Prophet Micah. Learn about ancient Judah and Jerusalem. Learn about the Arameans and Assyrians, about water and sieges and vassals and treaties. More than that, learn about the way God dealt with his wayward people. What he expected and how he responded to the choices of his people. Learn about sin, repentance, forgiveness and restoration. Learn all these things without even trying to. That is what good historical fiction can do. Thank you, Lynn Austin, for giving a good example of what I am looking for.

Reggie H.