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Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Book Review: When Lightning Struck!


Book Description From the Back Cover:



Martin Luther's life was too exciting not to be written for teens and younger readers! In this fast-paced, action-packed novel of Martin Luther's life, teen readers (and more than a few adults!) will be introduced to a fascinating time when princes ruled Europe and knights roamed the countryside. They'll learn about a time when powerful forces lined up against each other and believing the wrong thing could get you killed.
When Lightning Struck! is far more than just an adventure story, of course. It also tells a theological story. Drawing carefully from Luther's own words, this book introduces readers to a kindred spirit who struggled with what knowing God through Scripture means for daily life. They will understand what was at stake and how powerfully liberating Luther's idea of grace through faith was—in his time and in ours!
In crisp, enjoyable prose, author Danika Cooley conveys both the drama and the meaning of the Reformation for younger readers like no one before her!


My Take: What must one do to be saved? This is a question with which Martin Luther wrestled in his early years until he encountered Truth through the Word of God. His life would never be the same and neither would the lives of many others whom he has impacted. Employing vivid imagery and metaphor, Danika Cooley shares how God revealed Himself to Luther and used him to purify His church. When Lightning Struck! is the story of one man's journey to peace with God, which ironically led to growing unrest with the church leaders of the day. Luther modeled humbly appealing to authorities with whom he passionately disagreed and boldly asked the question, "Who will be king?" Perhaps what makes When Lightning Struck! unique is that it is thoroughly researched and quotes Luther extensively, yet appropriately, for the intended young adult audience. When Lightning Struck! is theologically rich and filled with many wonderful lessons. One such lesson, drawn from the life of Luther, is that, in order to save one's life, one must be willing to lose it for the sake of Christ. For what would you be willing to die? Luther was willing to sacrifice his life that all may come to a true knowledge of the love and grace of Jesus Christ who lived a perfect life and died in the place of sinners that all may have peace with God. He was a man who didn't waiver in his commitment and faithfulness to the Word of God. Mrs. Cooley does an excellent job communicating his story in an engaging and exciting way for the next generation in When Lightning Struck!. This is a skillful blow to the "Fiery Dragon"!

Not only has Mrs. Cooley taken the time to compose a well-written narrative account of Luther’s life for young people, but she has also created and generously made available a FREE downloadable guide for the book as well as a FREE 12-week unit study. More information can be found on The Thinking Kids Blog

*Many thanks to Danika Cooley and Fortress Press for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion!

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