They Turned the World Upside Down, and I returned this book to the library.

“They Turned the World Upside Down” by Charles Martin

I decided to read this book based on a recommendation on a Historical Fiction facebook page. Expecting Biblical fiction along the lines of “Ben Hur” or “The Chosen,” I delved in.

The first thing I learned is that this author previously wrote a book called “What If It’s True?” Charles Martin refers to it at least ten times in the first two chapters, to the point that I felt like he was insisting I read that one before this one.

My second observation was that this book is only 1/3 historical/Biblical fiction. Each chapter does contain a section portraying one scene of the Biblical life of Christ, complete with fictional dialogue with his disciples. In my opinion the tone of Martin’s characters’ dialogue is a clearly male version of “one of the guys,” leaning uncomfortably close to irreverent. The second section of each chapter is an analysis of the Biblical-fictional part. Martin emphasizes that the Grace of Jesus is always stronger than our sin, to which I say a hearty “Amen!” The final section of each chapter is a lengthy personal prayer on behalf of Martin and his readers. The juxtaposition of fiction and non-fiction didn’t resonate with me. Nor did the depth of his focus on shame and sin in the prayers. The Grace of Jesus is always stronger than sin, but the prayers are laden with the grief and shame of someone who is not embracing Grace.

After 7 chapters, I have had enough. I’m glad I picked it up at the library instead of paying for it at a book store. I will return it today. It may very well speak to some readers, but I found it more of a hindrance than a help to my spirit.