Book Corner

As a change from the usual Lent and Easter books, this Eastertide, I have chosen an unusual and remarkable book to recommend. This came courtesy of Crossbridge Books who kindly supplied the Kentle Shaddy series reviewed before in this column. First Century Close-ups by Roger Penney might indicate a book with historical leanings but may not cause immediate inspiration. However the sub-title, Stories that bring the New Testament to life elucidates. Based on incidents and people from The Bible, Roger Penney enlarges and narrates with a very rare and sensitive gift.

Some of the events covered are the healing of the man tormented by demons ('A Stranger On The Shore'), the healing of Naaman ('The Living Dead') and the healing of the woman crippled for eighteen years ('Look To The Earth'),

One of my favourites is Tears Of Sorrow and Of Joy which is taken from Luke 7, the raising of the widow's only son. This especially has been retold so beautifully with the two processions coming together. One in deep conversation having travelled since first light, the other, a funeral procession, about to make its way to the final resting place, to the lament of flutes and wailing. There is the inevitable build-up to the familiar outcome by way of a gentle insight into Jewish home life and the meeting with Jesus is handled in such a way one is riveted in anticipation. The notes of the back cover suggest, amongst other things, that the author helps us to see Jesus with greater vividness than ever before. I would certainly agree with this and found myself drawn into the scenes almost as a closer observer.

In citing his sources of information, it was interesting to learn that the reference section of Portsmouth Central Library played a part in providing background on King Herod and his various building works. The works of Dr. Alfred Edershelm, a learned Jew who converted to Christianity, was used to obtain many of the details on Jewish life in the first century.

First Century Close-Ups by Roger Penney. (Crossbridge Books).

(ISBN 0 95435739 6). £6.99

Lynn Winter