Average customer rating:
- The Great Divorce
- A dash of fantasy, a dash of truth, vintage C.S. Lewis
- An Intriguing Story
- Yet, it IS a plausible picture of the afterlife...
- Entertaining, but don't try and take too much theology from it.
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The Great Divorce
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: HarperOne
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A Grief Observed
ASIN: 0060652950
Release Date: 2001-02-05 |
Amazon.com
The Great Divorce is C.S. Lewis's Divine Comedy: the narrator bears strong resemblance to Lewis (by way of Dante); his Virgil is the fantasy writer George MacDonald; and upon boarding a bus in a nondescript neighborhood, the narrator is taken to Heaven and Hell. The book's primary message is presented with almost oblique tidiness--"There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, 'Thy will be done,' and those to whom God says, in the end, 'Thy will be done.'" However, the narrator's descriptions of sin and temptation will hit quite close to home for many readers. Lewis has a genius for describing the intricacies of vanity and self-deception, and this book is tremendously persistent in forcing its reader to consider the ultimate consequences of everyday pettiness. --Michael Joseph Gross
Book Description
C. S. Lewis takes us on a profound journey through both heaven and hell in this engaging allegorical tale. Using his extraordinary descriptive powers, Lewis introduces us to supernatural beings who will change the way we think about good and evil.
Customer Reviews:
The Great Divorce.......2007-09-30
This is one of my favorite books. I've read it several times and I've had to buy new copies because I keep giving it away. The Great Divorce starts off a little slowly, but you have to hang in there through the first couple of chapters. It is NOT a book about marital divorce, but rather about letting go of the things you think you want or need in order to gain that which is of much greater value.
A dash of fantasy, a dash of truth, vintage C.S. Lewis.......2007-09-26
As one reviewer noted, many readers will not pick up a C.S. Lewis creation beyond "Chronicles of Narnia," "Mere Christianity," and "The Screwtape Letters." I was one of them, but I'm very thankful for having to check out a copy of Lewis' "The Great Divorce." Like his Narnia tales, there is a dash of both fantasy and truth in this volume, and the mix is delicate but profound. Built as a story of a bus ride to Heaven and Hell, "The Great Divorce" weaves a tapestry of assorted characters, facing immortal choices about their own harrowing predicaments. While Lewis' landscape visualizing the realities of Heaven and Hell are of course conjectural, each character's scene and dialogue with the Solid Spirits of Heaven are assuredly not. It's like looking in the mirror - there is someone who looks exactly like you, warts and all. It's a small book, something you can finish within a day. I still thought it was like a smack in the face, something we need in our materialistic and fickle lives now and again.
Pride, lust, idolatry, SIN, it's all represented here in the great style of Lewis' magical blend of imagination and vivid imagery. The book, of course, ends in hope, in salvation. As the mystical Teacher who advises the main character Lewis says, Hell would not be big enough to do any harm to the Real World, or the Truth.
An Intriguing Story.......2007-09-19
C.S. Lewis' very short book is a fictional work that follows the journey of a group of people in Hell who take a trip to Heaven. Like his "Screwtape Letters," this book provides some excellent insights into the psychology of humankind.
During this trip to Heaven, the inhabitants of Hell are given a chance to repent and enter the kingdom of God. Each person upon arrival is eventually greeted by a person from Heaven who tries to convince the unrepentant to receive salvation. It is almost painful to read as these inhabitants of Hell steadfastly refuse to repent. It is painful to see the characters accept Hell and reject Heaven, but it is even more painful because it is easy for us to see our own flaws represented by these unrepentant people.
Lewis' construction of Hell as a place where the unrepentant wander around and never achieve satisfaction or fulfillment is conspicuously lacking searing flames and torturing demons. And although Lewis may not have meant for "The Great Divorce" to be a systematic description of the nature of Heaven and Hell, I think that he is certainly on to something. The vision of Hell found in this book is, I think, closer to the reality of Hell than the traditional Dante-esque version of torture and pain. But the primary accomplishment of "The Great Divorce" is that it shows us the psychology of unbelief, even when manifested in ourselves.
Yet, it IS a plausible picture of the afterlife..........2007-09-08
This little book is a total joy to read. I know that the author makes it very clear that one should not suppose that he is factually presenting details of the afterlife, yet, in the end he has created a most satisfying image of a plausible afterlife. As for the title, he is referring to the poet-mystic William Blake's Marriage of Heaven and Hell. He points out that this is a synthesis that can never be, for to do so would compromise the absolute Goodness of Heaven, thereby making a Hell of both. Perhaps there can one day be a marriage of Heaven and Earth (thereby showing both to really have been Heaven all along), but never of Heaven and Hell.
I loved the imagery of Hell being very much like a never-ending city on Earth where it is always twilight and eternal night always on the verge. Yet, it is not a crowded city for people keep moving apart because they cannot stand each other's presence. That's just it. People dwell in Hell by their own choice. It is the obsessions that separate them from God and the highest reality that keep them from leaving. It is even shown that such higher impulses as love and pity, if unhealthily indulged in for their own sake and for nothing higher or transcendent, can keep you in Hell. Yet, this Hell is also Purgatory for those who workout their obsessions. In fact, there is a regular bus service to Heaven for fieldtrips that serve just that purpose (I always suspected that the omnibus originated in Hades.)
As for Heaven, it is perpetually just the moment before dawn and eternal day. The idea that Heaven is actually more substantial than Hell, or Earth, is reasonable, since it is after all the more Real of the two being closer to the Creator. Indeed, the visitors from Hell appear as pale and insubstantial deformed ghosts who find the adamantine hardness and density of the higher plane physically painful (even walking upon the grass.) The residents of the realm however are radiant spirits who do everything that they can to point out the mistakes and illusions that the ghostly visitors still cling to- and which are the only thing keeping them from traveling higher up and farther in to the one true goal. The most detailed and believable of these tutelary spirits is Lewis' own spriritual mentor, George Macdonald.
Entertaining, but don't try and take too much theology from it........2007-08-16
I gave this book three stars because while it is entertaining, there is a significant potential for people to try and get theology from it, which for the most part I don't recommend. The author makes sure to make that point at the end of the book, though. But I'm sure it's too late for a lot of people by then.
The primary theological point that C.S. Lewis is actually intending to make is that one goes to hell as a consequence of rejecting God and "loving" self. It is the person's rejection of God, not the other way around. However, in trying to make this point in a novel, a lot of the theology seems to get messed up.
Book Description
Dr. Robin Smith advises couples on how to take the wedding vows that were made in earnest and in innocence, to a level where they can be used to build a happy, healthy, satisfying and long-lasting marriage. Lies at the Altar is for couples who are planning marriage, are newly married, or who have been married for years. In Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages, Dr. Robin Smith addresses the unspoken needs, unasked questions, outrageous expectations, and hidden agendas that often linger beneath the surface of the wedding vows and appear later to cause power struggles, suffering, and feelings of hopelessness in marriages. Dr. Smith discusses why its important to have ones "eyes wide open" in a marriage; how to write true vows to live by; and why its never too late to rewrite your vows. She illustrates her advice with detailed stories from her own life, as well as from couples that she has counseled. And in her inspiring conclusion, she invites couples to light up their lives by acknowledging each other as individuals, each of whom lights a candle, and who lights a third candle which represents "us". Calling "truth" the secret ingredient of great marriages, Dr. Smith teaches individuals and couples how to find the truth within themselves and their partners, whether they are heading to the altar, suffering in an unhappy marriage, divorced, or simply want to bring more satisfaction and intimacy into their relationship.
Customer Reviews:
Practical and easy to read.......2007-08-16
This book gives great insight for those wanting to marry, those already married, or those who want to better understand relationships. I have recommended it to many friends and clients that I work with. It is a must for anyone in a realtionship or who has been in a relationship.
This Makes A Wonderful Gift.......2007-08-01
I know it may sound a bit odd....a gift!
But...if you know a couple that is getting married and you have any convcern at all...buy this and give it to the bride to be.
Really...I think anyone getting married should buy the book and sit down together and read it. Great Book!
Lies At The Altar.......2007-07-14
Recommended by a psychologist friend, I bought this book through Amazon. It is right on the money!
Excellent Book.......2007-07-07
I thought this was a great book. I enjoyed the siimplicity the author used in writing on such a complex and emotional topic. I was glad that Dr. Smith chose to disclose her own personal experience in this area as well. I think those who have gone through a divorce and have gotten over their own bitterness and anger can make a valuable contribution to this topic.
I saw Dr. Smith on the Oprah show and initially thought that this wasn't a book for me since I am divorced and have figured out all of the mistakes that were made on my part. When I came across the book at a friend's house I coudn't put it down. Then my daughter who is single, saw the book and decided to buy several copies for herself and her single friends.
I recommend the book to single men and women. I diagree that the book is bias toward women. I think there are more stories in it as told by women than men but that's probably due to the fact that women will talk about their problems more so than men.
I love this book.......2007-06-26
This is a must read for anyone who's thinking about getting married. This book will covers topics/issues that are crucial in a marriage but rarely discussed before the "I Do's".
Book Description
Includes six titles: Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, A Grief Observed, The Problem of Pain, Miracles, and The Great Divorce.
Customer Reviews:
Quality works in poor quality packaging.......2007-09-20
For the last week I have been like a little child waiting for a birthday present to come in the mail. I have joyfully anticipated receiving this boxed set of C.S. Lewis treasures. At last, it came today. What a disappointment! If the covers of these books last through more than one reading, I will be surprised. The covers are beautiful, but the quality is poor, and certainly not worth the $47.90 I paid for this set. I was looking forward to something that would last for years to come. Oh well, I won't be sending the set back, because I'm anxious to read these incredible works (the first books I will have read in several years). If this review was about C.S. Lewis, it would be five stars. But, this review is about the shoddy quality of this set, and hence the single star review. Buyer beware.
Great way to get (almost) all of Lewis' classics.......2007-03-23
I love that many of my favorite books by Lewis are availible in a convenient package. While I would have liked to have The Four Loves in here as well, I think this is a great collection that I am happy to own.
Classics!.......2007-02-15
What can i say, CS Lewis truly thinks on a different plane, the first of the post modern Christians and truly biblical thinking. His many books takes you on many journeys. However books are intense with the use of the english language. Screwtape letters and Mere Christianity are two greats and the Four loves the hardest to read. However definitely a worthwhile collection to have.
Not "Letters," but a great set nevertheless.......2006-08-21
This "Six Essential Volume" set includes Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Problem of Pain, Miracles and A Grief Observed. The other reviews confirm that everyone else has received the same six books, so it isn't that I was sent the wrong order. Nowhere on the boxed set does it say "Collected Letters," and this isn't his Letters.
If you're looking for C.S. Lewis's Collected Letters, you'll need to keep looking. But if you're looking for a great collection of C.S. Lewis works, this is what you want. These works should be in every Christian's library.
Good Set.......2006-02-05
I'm new to CS Lewis and was told this collection was a good place to start. The Screwtape Letter is opening my mind to alot of new things.
Book Description
The popular unabridged recordings of The Chronicles of Narnia, previously released, are now repackaged and rejacketed with adult art in time for the first Narnia film coming from Disney at Christmastime 2005!
Customer Reviews:
CS Lewis CD collection of 4 great books.......2007-09-06
The reading of each book was complete and well done. I had started 2 of these as books, "Mere Christianity" and "The Great Divorce", but I never seemed to find time to read them. I can listen to the CDs working around the house or in the car. "The Screwtape Letters" were great. A real reminder how clever satan is at making you think that the issue is solely yourself or others. He is called the deceiver for a very good reason. "Mere Christianity" is a very thoughtful book and one worth discussing with others (Book Club, Book study etc.) "The Great Divorce" has nothing to do with marriage, but our divorce from God and how he wants the best for us and we settle for so much less. After listening to this book you will make decisions differently. "The Problem with Pain" is intense. C.S. Lewis is indeed a critical thinker. Pain is the result of the fall from grace and about how grace restores you (much different from curing you). Each time you listen to one of these CDs you will learn more about yourself, God and your relationship with Him. If you are not certain of who God is and is satan is real these CDs will be very helpful.
An outstanding and challenging series.......2007-08-23
There are few books that make you stop and take an accounting of who you are, what you're about and how you fit into time and the universe more than Mere Christianity. While it was originally a radio series (BBC) broadcast during WWII, it's approach is as applicable now as it was then or at any point in time.
If you have any doubts, concerns or interests regarding the existance of God and/or how we relate to Him; if you're searching for Truth (with a capital "T") you will find some of your answers here.
The approach is non-denominational and non- doctrinal. CS Lewis speaks of basic easy to grasp universal concepts rather than lofty dogma. Mere Christianity is and has been a modern classic that can be read and re-read with passion not only for they who search but also for they who have found answers to basic questions we all pose while here on earth
Incredible.......2007-03-29
Of course Lewis' books are great (we all know that) but the narrators in this package of books are spectacular. The narrator for The Screwtape Letters is uncanny (and eerie) in his reading.
The narrators truly make this a first class product. I highly recommend!
excellent.......2007-03-19
Some readers obviously don't understand the material. Others deliver it well enough, but don't sound authentic. Not this time. If I didn't know better, I would say C.S. Lewis himself was reading this book. It has been a pure delight to revisit these classics in audio form. I strongly recommend it.
Outstanding Audio Series - Worth the time........2007-01-11
I like to read, but I found this audio collection to be outstanding. I felt I got more out of his books listening to them, then actually reading them. He is very deep and concentrated in his thoughts and ideas, and it helped me immensely in my understanding and appreciation for who CS Lewis is and how he write.
I am a seminary student, and consider CS Lewis to be a modern day Apostle Paul. If you find reading CS Lewis difficult, I suggest you try the audio books, there is something about having someone read to you, and being able to comprehend it better.
Thanks Amazon for providing this series!
Average customer rating:
- A great introduction to a great writer.
- Outstanding Christian Apologetics!
- A DEFINITE 'MUST HAVE'!
- The Intellectual's Christian
- A good selection
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Six by Lewis: The Abolition of Man, the Great Divorce, Mere Christianity, Miracles, the Problem of Pain, the Screwtape Letters
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster (Paper)
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ASIN: 0684831198 |
Amazon.com
Six by Lewis is an excellent introduction to the work of C.S. Lewis, the 20th century's premier Christian apologist. This special six-book collection includes The Abolition of Man, a defense of objective morality, which comprises the basis of his Christian apologetics; The Great Divorce, a Christian perspective on Heaven and Hell; Miracles, an examination of the possibility and probability of the miraculous; The Problem of Pain, an in-depth look at the tough issue of human suffering; The Screwtape Letters, a fictional discussion between two demons illustrating the frailties of the human conscience; and Mere Christianity, Lewis's crowning achievement, a rational defense of Christianity.
Customer Reviews:
A great introduction to a great writer........2003-03-26
This set collects together some of the more famous writings of C.S. Lewis, a man seemingly at ease talking philosophy, or just spinning fanciful yarns. Both are offered here for the reader's enjoyment.
THE ABOLITION OF MAN is a series of lectures on how, without a firm understanding of right and wrong, or plain old good and evil, humanity is destined to destroy itself.
THE GREAT DIVORCE is a lush phantasm about a spirit's journey to Heaven and what he sees and learns from the spirits there.
MERE CHRISTIANITY, what can I say about this brilliant study of the very core of what Christians believe and what the religion teaches. Just read it, it's beautiful.
Also included in the set are MIRACLES, THE PROBLEM WITH PAIN, and THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS.
Outstanding Christian Apologetics!.......2001-02-15
I bought an older edition of these works, when the paperbacks were $3.95 and the overall set was $27.95 in U. S. currency. Its one of the best overall sets I have bought.
These books are central to understanding Lewis as a Christian writer, and especially as an apologist. Most people may know him from NARNIA or one of these volumes, and it is a good place for introduction into the mind and works of C. S. Lewis. All the classics are here, from SCREWTAPE and MERE CHRISTIANITY along with ABOLITION OF MAN and three other works, all of which range from profound (the majority) to beautiful (THE GREAT DIVORCE).
THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS are a series of letters written from one devil to another, and present a very interesting point of view not often heard.
THE GREAT DIVORCE explores the doctrine of love and how without free choice there would be no hell. You either say "Thy will be done," to God, or God says "Thy will be done" to you. Its yr choice. The framing device is a bus trip from hell to heaven.
THE PROBLEM OF PAIN deals with why would a benevolent and loving God include pain in his universe, and the theological ramifications that pain brings into any dicussion of God or religion. Especially interesting, although admittedly speculative, is the chapter on animal pain. Lewis vehemently opposed vivesection, which comes out rather strongly in his novels THAT HIDEOUS STRENGTH and THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER.
MERE CHRISTIANITY stands as one of the best apologetic works for Christianity ever written. This is a book written for the lay person, and is one of the best tools for making it accessible to nonbelievers.
MIRACLES, the last apologetic book he ever wrote (there are religious works by Lewis after this, but they are more relaxed and do not have a rigid central arguement), deals with the subject of miracles in the universe.
THE ABOLITION OF MAN is a book length essay, devided into three parts, concerning the universal code of morality which MERE CHRISTIANITY talks about in its first two books.
Lewis was a very versatile writer, and along with THE ESSENTIAL C. S. LEWIS you have a good start into this wonderful writer. I have been a long time reader of him, and have only recently gotten into his literary criticism, of which none is represented here, although some in THE ESSENTIAL C. S. LEWIS. Although some are more for the specialists, it is a particulary rewarding experience, and he is a well trained guide in the field of literature. I highly recommend AN EXPERIMENT IN CRITICISM, which for me is his central work concerning literature.
A DEFINITE 'MUST HAVE'!.......2000-06-29
C.S. Lewis' essays are a MUST for everyone and anyone who is interested in good literature and/or wishes to think about things as we know them. His reflections, although deep and thorough, are also easily grasped and understood; the beauty and simplicity of his words makes these essays accessible to whomever is interested in them, both Christian and non-Christian (I'm an atheist myself). It is impossible for one to read them and not feel 'touched' by something which might be beyond our comprehension...
The Intellectual's Christian.......2000-02-15
If not one of the greatest Christian philosophers of the 20th century (perhaps of all time), C. S. Lewis was certainly among the most accessible to the lay reader not deeply conversant with theology or metaphysics. And as a professor of Mediaeval and Renaissance Literature at Cambridge, and friend and confidant to T. S. Eliot, J.R.R. Tolkien, Dorothy Sayers and many other major literary figures of the early to mid-1900's, his thoughts were constantly refined in discourse with the best minds of his day. This collection is an excellent introduction to Lewis' exceedingly broad range of thought. Mere Christianity was originally presented on BBC as broadcast lectures on the basic teachings of Christianity, which are, as presented by Lewis, quite though-provoking and compelling. The Great Divorce and The Screwtape letters deal fictionally and humorously with, respectively, the mind-set of heaven and hell, as well as the tendencies in human nature which provide both with their denizens. The Abolition of Man seriously tackles the role of the educational process in the development of character (or lack thereof) in its subjects, something quite relevant in a day of increasing mayhem in the schools. And Miracles and The Problem of Pain deal with fundamental philosophical issues that transcend denominational perspectives. These extremely challenging books are recommended, not only as a sampler of Lewis' unique perspective, but as an introduction to a pious life for readers who heretofore have seen faith only from a secular viewpoint.
A good selection.......2000-01-25
C.S. Lewis was such a prolific author on many topics that it can be difficult to know where to start. If you are interested in his Christian writings, these volumes are among his most accessible and popular. Many people discover Lewis through "The Screwtape letters," which is a humorous, fast read that nevertheless tackles deep issues and stays with you. If you are looking for a more intellectual discussion of what Christianity is to Lewis, and why he believes as he does, "Mere Christianity" is the volume to read. If you have read little bits and pieces of Lewis and want to get to know his work more thoroughly, the publishers have made a good selection with these six paperbacks.
Book Description
Remain an integral part of your kids' lives during and after divorce
More and more, divorced fathers are finding out that, rather than being one half of a "broken" home, they can continue to play a crucial role in their children's lives.
You can, too. Turn to Always Dad and discover how to work with your ex to create a fulfilling extended family, one that can help ensure that your kids grow up in an enriching, loving environment.
Whether you're in the initial stages of divorce, dealing with the immediate aftermath or well past one, this book will provide down-to-earth ideas and strategies you can use right now.
Paul Mandelstein understands what you're experiencing. As a divorced father of three, he founded the Father Resource Network to help dads remain involved in their children's lives. With Always Dad, he distills his many years of working with divorced fathers into one powerful volume.
Get back on track, develop fulfilling relationships, experience personal growth and -- most importantly -- be the father that your kid needs. Always Dad will help you at every step.
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful Guide.......2007-01-17
When my son and daughter-in-law, with two young children, decided to divorce, I was concerned about all of them. I'd divorced from my son's mother when he was just four, and I'd found it difficult and heart-wrenching for all of us. "ALWAYS DAD" offered support and clear guidelines not only what to expect in a divorce but it also offered a reasonable, down-to-earth plan for how to minimize the pain and actually move forward on a positive and constructive path. I got two copies of the book--one for me and one for my son. The author's suggestions helped a lot--me when I was talking my son through some of the rough spots, and my son in his negotiations with his children's mom and the attorney. I highly recommend this book, not only for fathers in the midst of a divorce but for grandparents and friends whose compassion and love draws them into the fray. And come to think of it, if a couple is considering a divorce, or they feel their marriage is on rocky grounds, maybe they should be reading the book, too. The suggestions for establishing greater co-operation and understanding are very useful wherever there is tension. And when a couple can clearly see the road ahead, it may just give them second thoughts about splitting. I certainly wish I'd had this book when my son's mom and I went through our divorce. It would have brought a lot of comfort to all of us.
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The Abolition of Man & the Great Divorce
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Blackstone Audiobooks
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ASIN: 0786198192 |
Customer Reviews:
A Brief History of the Episcopal Church.......2001-07-26
I enjoyed reading this book by David L. Holmes. He goes into great detail about the Episcopal religion, and its history from the Anglican Reformation to the present. He not only tells when some Anglican traditions started but what other religions were doing during the same time frame. This book has given me a real hunger for doing more research on the Episcopal Faith
Fair and Caring History Gives Context to Modern Church.......2000-09-09
Dr. David Holmes's Brief History is important reading for anyone interested in the Episcopal Church, being engaging in its style and tone, comprehensive in its coverage, and useful in its bibliography. Dr. Holmes helped me, an Episcopalian of 30 years, make fair and caring sense of the many currents of religious thought that I first learned about in the late 1960s, and to place them into their historical and theological contexts both within and outside the Episcopal Church. Those currents too often divide and discourage rather than unite and uplift us, and we Episcopalians could argue a lot less (even about liturgy and music!), or at least argue with more community, if we learned the historical facts and the gently suggested lessons that this book can teach us. We also might come away feeling more kinship, not only with other Episcopalians whose views we may not share, but also with other denominations, with whom we share more than many of us (including this reviewer) probably know.
A "brief history" that will appeal to many.......2000-09-08
Good history pairs accurate facts with clear analysis. Great history adds fresh ideas, compelling personal accounts, and a genuine passion for the subject matter. In this engaging book on the Episcopal church, David Holmes has written history of the best kind.
As a professor at the College of William and Mary, Holmes commands knowledge of both church development and European and American history. Yet his simple, direct language makes complex topics clear to readers unfamiliar with church history or religious studies in general. His research also makes Episcopal history relevant to a wide range of audiences.
In a chapter entitled "The Growth of the Episcopal Church," Holmes chronicles the church's post-Colonial development. The diversity in this section shines. With fascinating detail, the author describes Anglican attempts to evangelize Native Americans, touches on foreign missions, and writes about the effect of immigration on the church.
Holmes also deals deftly with the role of African-Americans in the church, beginning with the baptism of an African-American family at Jamestown in 1623. He objectively describes the church's response to slavery and the Civil War, and explains the subsequent disaffection of many African-Americans from the denomination.
Finally, Holmes brilliantly chronicles the little-known role of women in areas such as missionary work and the social gospel movement. The book tells the stories of several women affected by the national debate over women's ordination in the 1960's and 1970's.
Even without the detailed and lively history that comprises its six main chapters, Holmes's book would be worth reading for its fascinating appendix, which chronicles Henry VIII's quest for an annulment from Catherine of Aragon. In an exceedingly well-researched account, Holmes balances historical detail with human interest drama that will captivate readers of all levels.
With lively prose and compelling analysis, this "brief history" will be a delight for scholars, laity, and history buffs alike.
Church History that reads like a good novel........1997-10-04
David L. Holmes's A Brief History of the Episcopal Church is an outstanding tour through the history of the Episcopal church, from its earliest days to the present. In fewer than 200 pages Holmes covers a wide range of persons, groups, and subjects and does so with flair and wit. He writes in an inviting and approachable style that combines sound scholarship with the insights and intuitions of a seasoned and highly effective college professor.
Holmes successfully incorporates discussions of liturgy, theology, polity, and architecture into the story, while giving attention to women and men representing a range of ethnic and social backgrounds. In so doing he relates the history of the Episcopal church to that of the larger society in a way that makes church history come alive. The author draws readers into the rich history of the Episcopal church and Anglican tradition through a narrative style that is insightful yet balanced, engaging yet informative. For example, his treatment of "Henry VIII's Quest for an Annulment" helpfully discusses this event and its effects within the context of its time.
The book is accessible to a wide range of individuals, from general readers to students of Episcopal church history. Holmes's Brief History can be used successfully in both classrooms and churches. It will be welcomed by teachers, students, libraries, and others interested in Episcopal or American church history. Here is one example of a brief church history that is informative, fair, and a pleasure to read.
Book Description
Your marriage may have ended, but your fatherhood has not. How can you stay an involved, caring dad in the aftermath of divorce when all kinds of obstacles appear, making you insecure and uncertain of your parenting skills? With advice and insight from psychologist and family therapist Kenneth N. Condrell, and from some of the ever-growing number of other divorced dads, this practical, insightful handbook will help you:avoid the ten most common divorced dad pitfallsadjust to family life after the custody agreementhandle school, homework, and extracurricular activitiesstrategize celebrations and holidaysdeal with a child who rejects youmove on to dating and other relationshipsLet divorce be an opportunity for tremendous growth-and great parenting.
Customer Reviews:
helpful book .......2006-07-02
Despite the father bashing propaganda garbage that we hear and read about,single men can do very well in bringing up their children,if they have a good reference,like this book.
Both Practical and Comforting.......2004-12-24
The author takes a balanced and practical stance towards divorce and fatherhood. This book was recommended to me by a professional at my 5 year old son's school during my divorce. It was a painful time in my life, and the balanced and equitable tone of the book helped me to deal effectively with the divorce, and also to understand better what my ex-wife was going through.
I appreciated how focused and tightly written the book was - while it was a quick read, it was quite rich in information. Once I finished reading the copy that was lent to me, I immediately purchased my own copy to use as a resource.
If you are a father going through a divorce, I would certainly recommend this book.
A Must for the Divorced Dad's Library.......2004-10-27
I recently got this book to improve my relationship with my son who's four years old. I found the book to be easy to read with good and practical tips and information that I found invaluable. It had many things that I started using right away and they helped improve my relationship with my son from the beginning. The author is both a psychologist that councels divorced families along with a divorced dad himself. He offers both on-the-job learned perspectives from the counselor, dad, and child along with his own life experiences. Overall, I feel the book would be a great book to get if you would like to optimize your experiences as a divorced (or seperated) dad.
Average customer rating:
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The Great Divorce
Manufacturer: MacMillian Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000BDLTDS |
Product Description
A fanciful journey to Heaven conducted with the wit and wisdom for which the author of The Screwtape Letters is Famous for. C.S. Lewis is the well-known Cambridge don, an author of many popular children's books, adult fiction, and religious works.
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