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drbobcornwall's review
5.0
So, how do we love God? What might it involve? What are the challenges we face? Those are some of the questions raised in this very enjoyable novel by Robert Hudson. Reviewing a book of fiction is challenging because I don't want to give away too much of the plot, and especially the ending. But while loving God is a key theme (the subtitle gives that much away), it's also about personal dynamics in an educational setting. That means personal rivalries that can get in the way of truly loving God and loving others.
I can tell you this much---the book is largely told through personal narrative of the primary character. That would be Martin Bonham, a middle-aged English professor at a fictional college, who is known for having created an annotated collection of works by 15th-century English mystics, as well as teaching a course on English mystics in the English Department. When one of his students, who is a seminarian, comes to him seeking counsel, a journey of discovery begins, which leads to the creation of a Department of Theophily (I'll let the reader figure out what that signifies), that draws on the resources of the college to teach courses that reflect on ways we love God. Now, this gets the attention of the curmudgeonly chair of the university's seminary, who doesn't think much of a department that lacks theological sophistication.
The result is hijinks and more as a rivalry develops, even as the department takes shape. As a seminary graduate, I might wince at the portrayal of the seminary and its chair, but it's all in good fun. Ultimately, there is a word here that is rather hopeful.
I truly enjoyed the book, largely because of the characters that Hudson has created. It is a reminder that we can all be a bit petty at times, especially when we become protective of our turf. However, we may have other issues and concerns that influence the way we respond.
I can't say much more without revealing too much of the plot, but if you enjoy reading novels that include theological discussions and faculty rivalries, then you will enjoy this book. I don't read a lot of fiction, but this one kept my attention throughout.
I can tell you this much---the book is largely told through personal narrative of the primary character. That would be Martin Bonham, a middle-aged English professor at a fictional college, who is known for having created an annotated collection of works by 15th-century English mystics, as well as teaching a course on English mystics in the English Department. When one of his students, who is a seminarian, comes to him seeking counsel, a journey of discovery begins, which leads to the creation of a Department of Theophily (I'll let the reader figure out what that signifies), that draws on the resources of the college to teach courses that reflect on ways we love God. Now, this gets the attention of the curmudgeonly chair of the university's seminary, who doesn't think much of a department that lacks theological sophistication.
The result is hijinks and more as a rivalry develops, even as the department takes shape. As a seminary graduate, I might wince at the portrayal of the seminary and its chair, but it's all in good fun. Ultimately, there is a word here that is rather hopeful.
I truly enjoyed the book, largely because of the characters that Hudson has created. It is a reminder that we can all be a bit petty at times, especially when we become protective of our turf. However, we may have other issues and concerns that influence the way we respond.
I can't say much more without revealing too much of the plot, but if you enjoy reading novels that include theological discussions and faculty rivalries, then you will enjoy this book. I don't read a lot of fiction, but this one kept my attention throughout.
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