Samuel DenHartog's Blog: The Road to 1,440 - Posts Tagged "bible"

I am delighted to announce the publication of my latest book, "Stories from the Old Testament," a collection that brings to life the profound and captivating stories of the Old Testament. Each narrative in this book offers a glimpse into a world where faith, courage, and divine intervention intersect, reflecting the enduring wisdom and moral lessons that have shaped civilizations.

Writing this book was a deeply fulfilling experience as I sought to capture the essence of these ancient tales while making them accessible and engaging for modern readers. From the creation of the world to the dramatic exodus from Egypt, each story is meticulously retold with rich detail and poetic prose. I aimed to honor these narratives' depth and spiritual significance, bringing their timeless messages to life in a way that resonates with readers of all backgrounds.

Within the pages of this book, you will find accounts brimming with miracles, heroism, and profound insights. Whether it’s the steadfast faith of Abraham, the incredible strength of Samson, or the wisdom of Solomon, each tale invites you to explore the rich tapestry of human experience and divine interaction. I invite you to embark on this journey with me, delving into the stories that have inspired and guided generations.

Warm regards,
Samuel DenHartog

For generations, the Psalms have offered comfort, strength, and inspiration to people walking through every kind of season. Their language is rich and evocative, their themes timeless. But for many, especially in our fast-paced world, the style can feel distant or hard to absorb. That’s what sparked the idea to reshape these ancient songs into gentle, rhyming verse that invites the reader in and unfolds naturally, like a familiar melody.

In creating this collection, I wanted to preserve the beauty and depth of the original text while offering a fresh voice that flows easily off the tongue. Whether read aloud in a quiet moment or tucked into daily reading routines, each poem seeks to reflect the heart of a Psalm in a way that feels accessible and deeply personal. The language is poetic but not lofty, meant to stir the spirit without straining the ear.

Some poems follow the familiar rhythms of paired rhymes, others use alternating lines to create a gentle sway, like waves or walking pace. That variety grew out of the Psalms themselves, which are emotional and varied, sometimes overflowing with praise, other times aching with lament. Matching the tone of each passage with the right poetic structure became part of the joy and challenge of writing.

If you love the Psalms but have longed for a new way to engage with them, or if you're simply drawn to meaningful poetry rooted in faith and experience, I hope this book finds a place on your shelf and in your heart. When reimagined in verse, there is something ancient yet immediate about these songs, and I’m grateful to share that experience with you in "Psalms in Rhyme."