A Must Read: Pearl in the Sand, by Tessa Afshar

I just read an absolutely fabulous book called Pearl in the Sand.  It's the first book by author Tessa Afshar, but you would never know it.  May I suggest that you reserve this at your library, order it, or do whatever you need to get this book in your hands?  It is that great of a book!

First, I have to tell you that this is biblical fiction.  Not everyone likes to read biblical fiction.  Because really, the Bible is our only real source for knowledge of the events and people.  Biblical fiction uses the few facts that are known and creates a story.  But what I love about Tessa Afshar is she says the following in the introduction.

"The best way to study the Bible is not through a novel, but simply to read the original.  This story can in no way replace the transformative power that the reader will encounter in the Scriptures.  For the biblical account of Rahab, refer to Joshua 1-10, the book of Ruth, and Matthew 1:1-17."


That's right, this incredible book is about Rahab, the well-known prostitute from Jericho.  Tessa Afshar brings to life the fictional story of how a prostitute living in a land of child sacrifices and idol worship could come to live in Israel permanently and even marry an Israelite man of position.  Later she mothers Boaz, and is also an ancestor of Jesus.

When I read through the Old Testament, I often wonder how in the world these people lived, especially during the forty years of wandering through the desert.  Pearl in the Sand was extremely well researched to help a person understand such things.  It was a story of real characters with depth, emotion, and conflict.  I appreciate this work of biblical fiction, not just as book that explains what may have happened with Rahab and Salmon, but as a book that spoke to my heart and mind.  This is another book that shows me how a person can become trapped in a bad situation that is foreign to me.  For that alone I like this, but really, I like this book for the story telling and even how it taught me about the Israelites and especially the main character, Rahab.

I know I am not really saying too much about the plot of Pearl in the Sand.  If you know the story of Rahab from the Bible, then you know the main summary, but the book is SO MUCH MORE.  Why don't you go and read the first two chapters for yourself?

As I said, get your hands on this book.  You won't regret it.  I'm certain it will be one of my favorite books of the year and will not be forgotten!  I have some great news for you, too!  Moody Publishers is offering a giveaway copy to one reader!!  


Giveaway
To Enter: Leave a comment telling me another book (fiction or nonfiction, but not the Bible) that has given you insight to something in the Bible.  Make sure I have a way to contact you through an email address or your blogger profile.  This is open to any resident in the US.


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Giveaway runs through Tuesday, May 31, 2011.  
Giveaway is now closed.  The winner is #12 Michelle!  Congratulations.


(This is my own copy, not provided for review.  After reading so many positive reviews, I knew I wanted it for myself and am thrilled that Moody is offering you a copy, too.)