Book Review: The Point - The Redemption of Oban Ironbout by William E. Jefferson

If you are in a hurry or have a short-attention span, you will be frustrated by the pace of this book. This is a slow-moving contemplation of deeply eternal things. One that makes you stop and think and reflect on what you just read. 

 The setting for the book is the Isle of Estillyen--a monastic community known for their "readings." Basically, the monk staff performs dialogues reenacted from Scripture along with some imaginative renderings of dialogues between Lucifer and his demon lackeys. The monks actually take on names that tie into the "story" theme: Epic, Narrative, Writer, Plot, Saga, Story, Drama. They are called Message Makers and you can read their real life biographies here. They bring their audience into the readings by including a "Voice" that usually involves a trio of people expressing questions or observations someone might have when reading the Bible.

The author doesn't skip ahead and gloss over or summarize the events, but carefully describes and allows the reader to partake of the transformation. Jefferson was a master of details--describing people and places like a cinematic experience so the reader can truly visualize the scenes.

This was a truly remarkable, beautiful tale that I look forward to rereading. Many things to contemplate and digest. A completely satisfying read. If you want to be challenged in your faith and your understanding of Christ and his redemptive power I recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing as part of their Book Review Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."