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Heroes and Monsters: An Honest Look at the Struggle within All of Us
Heroes and Monsters is an unforgettable memoir of passion and redemption, a ragged look into a world at once wildly twisted and profoundly beautiful, an exposé of both the hero and the monster within all of us.
In this stunningly honest, thoroughly unconventional, and ultimately hopeful book, Josh James Riebock explores issues that form us into the people we are--issues of family, love, intimacy, dreams, grief, purpose, and the unexpected stops along the journey. With artful prose and vivid storytelling, he shows that pain and beauty are so inextricably linked that to lose the former costs us the latter.
If you're grappling with life's inconsistencies and trials,
If you're searching for an encounter with something real,
If you're craving a story that's just a wee bit odd . . .
Heroes and Monsters is a fresh and exhilarating perspective on the uneven nature of life, and the equally uneven people who inhabit it.
In this stunningly honest, thoroughly unconventional, and ultimately hopeful book, Josh James Riebock explores issues that form us into the people we are--issues of family, love, intimacy, dreams, grief, purpose, and the unexpected stops along the journey. With artful prose and vivid storytelling, he shows that pain and beauty are so inextricably linked that to lose the former costs us the latter.
If you're grappling with life's inconsistencies and trials,
If you're searching for an encounter with something real,
If you're craving a story that's just a wee bit odd . . .
Heroes and Monsters is a fresh and exhilarating perspective on the uneven nature of life, and the equally uneven people who inhabit it.
304 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2012
83 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Josh James Riebock
3 books22 followersJosh was raised near Chicago, in a loving home that also featured alcoholism, hoarding, and a buffet of other peccadilloes. After college hopping for five years, Josh took a job at a church, where he worked for three years as a youth pastor. It was there that he became reacquainted with his childhood love for telling stories— Speaking of love, it’s also during that time that he got married to Kristen, a girl that he grew up just a few houses away from.
Hungry for something a bit different—and certainly a warmer climate—the two of them moved to Austin, where Josh joined another church staff. The following year would be one of the most eventful of his life. It began with Kristen and Josh adopting their dog/son, Ditka, whom they became instantly obsessed with. Then, after nearly six years of working in churches, Josh decided that it was time to chase his long dormant dream of becoming a writer. So he quit his church job. But before he could really enjoy his newfound pursuit, both of his parents died only weeks apart. And while this was, and remains, the most difficult time in his life, it has also played a crucial role in making him into who he is today, shaping the way he writes, speaks, and interacts with the world.
In 2009, Baker Publishing Group released his first book, My Generation. His newest book, Heroes and Monsters, was released in the spring of 2012. Josh maintains a busy travel schedule, speaking around the country at conferences, colleges, and churches. And yes, he really enjoys it very, very much.
If he isn’t writing or speaking, he’s probably in Austin, Texas, spending time with Kristen and Ditka, or reading, fiction probably, maybe something by Daniel Wallace or Dave Eggers, or he might be watching an 80's movie, or talking about football with his friends.
Hungry for something a bit different—and certainly a warmer climate—the two of them moved to Austin, where Josh joined another church staff. The following year would be one of the most eventful of his life. It began with Kristen and Josh adopting their dog/son, Ditka, whom they became instantly obsessed with. Then, after nearly six years of working in churches, Josh decided that it was time to chase his long dormant dream of becoming a writer. So he quit his church job. But before he could really enjoy his newfound pursuit, both of his parents died only weeks apart. And while this was, and remains, the most difficult time in his life, it has also played a crucial role in making him into who he is today, shaping the way he writes, speaks, and interacts with the world.
In 2009, Baker Publishing Group released his first book, My Generation. His newest book, Heroes and Monsters, was released in the spring of 2012. Josh maintains a busy travel schedule, speaking around the country at conferences, colleges, and churches. And yes, he really enjoys it very, very much.
If he isn’t writing or speaking, he’s probably in Austin, Texas, spending time with Kristen and Ditka, or reading, fiction probably, maybe something by Daniel Wallace or Dave Eggers, or he might be watching an 80's movie, or talking about football with his friends.
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September 7, 2019If you already read this book and liked it, don't read the rest of this review. If you're trying to decide whether or not to read this book and are looking to see what others think about it so you can make a decision, don't read the rest of this review. Basically, this review is not for anyone else but me; I'm writing this review because since I joined Goodreads, I write a review for every book I read. I'm not even assigning a star rating to this review. I knew I was in trouble when I read Riebock's bio. The fact that his first book was called mY Generation was sign one I shouldn't read the book. Sign two was his bio listing David Eggers (overrated, especially A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius) and Daniel Wallace (I've read almost all his books, and only Big Fish was any good) as two of his influences. Again, just skip this whole review.
That's out of the way: holy mother of mercy, did I dislike this book. And to be clear, I went in predisposed to dislike it and it was a self-fulfilling prophecy that says more about me than about this book. This book is a memoir of Riebock’s life and how his faith developed despite his alcoholic father, dysfunctional family, and general selfishness. And I just could not wait for it to end. First, I generally dislike memoirs written by anyone under the age of fifty who is still living. I'm of the belief that no one should be writing a memoir until they've lived out the majority of their life and lived a Forrest Gump-like existence. I resent David Eggers for kickstarting the modern tendency for thirty-year-olds to share their meager lives as if they experienced unheard of things that thousands of others haven't experienced. And yet, in this book, Riebock shares the three decades of his existence. Oh, Riebock's dad was an alcoholic? Oh his parents split up? Oh he struggled with his faith? How novel, all these experiences!
Second, if you're writing a book about faith and decide the best way to reach a broader audience is by creating some imagined personification of God, please stop and delete the entire draft of what you're writing. If you consider The Shack to be a major influence on your life and faith, we simply can't be friends. In this book, Riebock meets God in a cornfield and calls him Jack. And whenever he's talking about God, he refers to him as Jack. Awful.
Third, the prose is so Gen Y: the pop culture references, the colloquialisms, the affected transparency and "being real". In one scene, Riebock is wrestling with his career and trying to decide if he should follow his dreams and has an imagined conversation with an anthropomorphic cow, for mercy's sake. And the cow (apparently on behalf of God?) tells him the difference between humans and animals/cows and says, “Josh, the biggest difference between us is that yer given the power to dream.” That is among the stupidest things I’ve ever read in a book.
Related, I’m not sure what the purpose of this book is; but given Riebock is a speaker on the Christian speaking circuit, and this book is about Jack/God, I assume he’s trying to connect people with their faith. But his faith is the kind of therapeutic moral deism that is the problem with American Christianity. Oh, God wants you to live a life where you chase your dreams? There is absolutely no mention of Jesus, just some casual personified generic God? There is no mention of sin and repentance, just love and life and more love? You've read too many Bob Goff tweets, Riebock. Faith is not about dreams and whimsy. I've vented enough, probably. I will say the part where he shared about how his sister and family dealt with potential devastating news about her first child was readable, as was his imagining of heaven at the end. But this book (and its genre) is simply not my cup of tea. It's a memoir for Christians under 35 who can't go a day without sharing a Bob Goff or Francis Chan quote on social media.
That's out of the way: holy mother of mercy, did I dislike this book. And to be clear, I went in predisposed to dislike it and it was a self-fulfilling prophecy that says more about me than about this book. This book is a memoir of Riebock’s life and how his faith developed despite his alcoholic father, dysfunctional family, and general selfishness. And I just could not wait for it to end. First, I generally dislike memoirs written by anyone under the age of fifty who is still living. I'm of the belief that no one should be writing a memoir until they've lived out the majority of their life and lived a Forrest Gump-like existence. I resent David Eggers for kickstarting the modern tendency for thirty-year-olds to share their meager lives as if they experienced unheard of things that thousands of others haven't experienced. And yet, in this book, Riebock shares the three decades of his existence. Oh, Riebock's dad was an alcoholic? Oh his parents split up? Oh he struggled with his faith? How novel, all these experiences!
Second, if you're writing a book about faith and decide the best way to reach a broader audience is by creating some imagined personification of God, please stop and delete the entire draft of what you're writing. If you consider The Shack to be a major influence on your life and faith, we simply can't be friends. In this book, Riebock meets God in a cornfield and calls him Jack. And whenever he's talking about God, he refers to him as Jack. Awful.
Third, the prose is so Gen Y: the pop culture references, the colloquialisms, the affected transparency and "being real". In one scene, Riebock is wrestling with his career and trying to decide if he should follow his dreams and has an imagined conversation with an anthropomorphic cow, for mercy's sake. And the cow (apparently on behalf of God?) tells him the difference between humans and animals/cows and says, “Josh, the biggest difference between us is that yer given the power to dream.” That is among the stupidest things I’ve ever read in a book.
Related, I’m not sure what the purpose of this book is; but given Riebock is a speaker on the Christian speaking circuit, and this book is about Jack/God, I assume he’s trying to connect people with their faith. But his faith is the kind of therapeutic moral deism that is the problem with American Christianity. Oh, God wants you to live a life where you chase your dreams? There is absolutely no mention of Jesus, just some casual personified generic God? There is no mention of sin and repentance, just love and life and more love? You've read too many Bob Goff tweets, Riebock. Faith is not about dreams and whimsy. I've vented enough, probably. I will say the part where he shared about how his sister and family dealt with potential devastating news about her first child was readable, as was his imagining of heaven at the end. But this book (and its genre) is simply not my cup of tea. It's a memoir for Christians under 35 who can't go a day without sharing a Bob Goff or Francis Chan quote on social media.
February 12, 2023
This book felt like I was reading my own stream of consciousness when it came to the smaller things (like his opinions on country music, his personality, his peculiar idiosyncrasies) and when it came to the more significant things, like how he views God, himself, and their relationship to one another. I loved this one.
August 10, 2014
Update 8/10/14
I just finished re-reading this book and it was just as good the second time around. As with my first reading of it, I so deeply appreciate Josh Riebock's authenticity and transparency, his willingness to be brutally honest about his struggles in life. The last chapter, in which he describes a vision of what comes after this life, made a huge impression on me the first time around, and it was even more meaningful the second time in light of what's been an extremely trying year filled with brokenness all around me. To be pointed toward a future when "Jack's" kids all live in a new world where we all finally get that he is all that matters, and that love is the point, was very soothing for my tired heart. Yes, this book is indeed like a good friend that will bear revisiting through the years.
~*~*~*~*~*~
At one point in Heroes and Monsters, author Josh Riebock says, "Flawed people I don't mind; it's the perfect ones who scare me." I could not agree more, and this is a key reason this book resonated so deeply with me. This creatively-spun memoir reminded me of a cross between the writing of Matt Mikalatos and Donald Miller (two of my absolute favorites), whose works have resonated with me for the same reason. This book made me laugh out loud at times and fight back tears at others. Ultimately it left me encouraged to persevere and remain hopeful about what God is doing in & around me in spite of the brokenness I face within & without every day.
On a personal note, I realize some may find Riebock's frequent recounting of his back-and-forth thought processes maddening, but for this INFJ it was like the author (a self-described INFP) was detailing the inner workings of my own brain; and for someone who over-thinks things as much as I do (often against my will, mind you), it's a comfort and a relief every time I discover another over-thinker. It makes me feel just a little less crazy, and for that reason I have a deep appreciation for those portions of this book. :)
There are few things I love more than reading an open & honest retelling of someone's life story. I have unceasing appreciation for those who can be real about the highs & lows of life (yes, even life with "Jack") and who can admit to experiencing times of intense doubt & discouragement even as they strive to hold tight to their hopes & beliefs, and Riebock does this beautifully throughout Heroes and Monsters. This is one of those books that really feels like a good friend, and I know it's one I'll revisit again & again in the months & years to come.
I just finished re-reading this book and it was just as good the second time around. As with my first reading of it, I so deeply appreciate Josh Riebock's authenticity and transparency, his willingness to be brutally honest about his struggles in life. The last chapter, in which he describes a vision of what comes after this life, made a huge impression on me the first time around, and it was even more meaningful the second time in light of what's been an extremely trying year filled with brokenness all around me. To be pointed toward a future when "Jack's" kids all live in a new world where we all finally get that he is all that matters, and that love is the point, was very soothing for my tired heart. Yes, this book is indeed like a good friend that will bear revisiting through the years.
~*~*~*~*~*~
At one point in Heroes and Monsters, author Josh Riebock says, "Flawed people I don't mind; it's the perfect ones who scare me." I could not agree more, and this is a key reason this book resonated so deeply with me. This creatively-spun memoir reminded me of a cross between the writing of Matt Mikalatos and Donald Miller (two of my absolute favorites), whose works have resonated with me for the same reason. This book made me laugh out loud at times and fight back tears at others. Ultimately it left me encouraged to persevere and remain hopeful about what God is doing in & around me in spite of the brokenness I face within & without every day.
On a personal note, I realize some may find Riebock's frequent recounting of his back-and-forth thought processes maddening, but for this INFJ it was like the author (a self-described INFP) was detailing the inner workings of my own brain; and for someone who over-thinks things as much as I do (often against my will, mind you), it's a comfort and a relief every time I discover another over-thinker. It makes me feel just a little less crazy, and for that reason I have a deep appreciation for those portions of this book. :)
There are few things I love more than reading an open & honest retelling of someone's life story. I have unceasing appreciation for those who can be real about the highs & lows of life (yes, even life with "Jack") and who can admit to experiencing times of intense doubt & discouragement even as they strive to hold tight to their hopes & beliefs, and Riebock does this beautifully throughout Heroes and Monsters. This is one of those books that really feels like a good friend, and I know it's one I'll revisit again & again in the months & years to come.
April 23, 2020
Josh James Riebock presents his story of the heroes and monsters within his life. He recognizes their presence in his father but as well as himself. Josh’s perspective on his relationship with Christ quite fascinated me because he refers to Him as Jack. Jack is constantly woven in through Josh’s life, and Josh has recognized that Jack is the one who truly wants to know about the beauty and ugliness about his life. I would share this book with anyone struggling to trust people or struggling to see the work of Christ at work in their lives. It was a very interesting read. My favorite part was Josh’s perspective toward Jack.
June 7, 2017
This is probably my 4th time reading this and I still consider it my favorite book. Oh so much beauty and vulnerability and truth fill these pages. I finish each chapter wanting to love more deeply and live more fully.
April 5, 2018
Parts of this book are dazzling; other parts are a mess. I suppose Heroes and Monsters is an appropriate term for its sum. The content is allegorical, poetic, raw, strange, narcissistic, purposeful—all in one heap, but it’s slow reading to comprehend. A mixed bag for me.
August 11, 2014
This was definitely a different kind of book from what I normally read. The main theme of this book is God. And yet, I don't think the word God was mentioned even once. I do recall one mention of Lord, but that's it. Consequently, I'm not sure what religious people will think of this work. Like I said, the main message of this book is the importance of God, but I know many people out there will be offended by the irreverence shown by the author Josh James Riebock. In some ways the book reminded me of that Joan Osborne song One Of Us ; you know
If God had a name, what would it be?
And would you call it to his face,
If you were faced with Him in all His glory?
What would you ask if you had just one question?
And yeah, yeah, God is great
Yeah, yeah, God is good
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
What if God was one of us?
Just a slob like one of us?
Just a stranger on the bus
Trying to make His way home?
Because in this book God does have a name. Josh calls him Jack. And he does indeed come down to earth to "hang" with Josh a number of times. For example they walk the the dog together, climb trees together visit the hospital to mention a few. So while I personally, enjoyed this strange and unusual way to get across God's message, I can't help but wonder how many people will be turned off and offended by this book's tone.
If God had a name, what would it be?
And would you call it to his face,
If you were faced with Him in all His glory?
What would you ask if you had just one question?
And yeah, yeah, God is great
Yeah, yeah, God is good
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
What if God was one of us?
Just a slob like one of us?
Just a stranger on the bus
Trying to make His way home?
Because in this book God does have a name. Josh calls him Jack. And he does indeed come down to earth to "hang" with Josh a number of times. For example they walk the the dog together, climb trees together visit the hospital to mention a few. So while I personally, enjoyed this strange and unusual way to get across God's message, I can't help but wonder how many people will be turned off and offended by this book's tone.
June 12, 2012
I had such a love/hate relationship with this book. More love then hate... DEFINITELY more love. This book is just a man's story - starting from childhood until the end of his life... & its written in a different way. And while some parts felt drug out & not to make much sense (the hate part) - other parts were so amazingly written, that one sentence would make me stop & think for 10 minutes. I think I wrote down more quotes from this book then any I've read in awhile...
We start off the book with a little boy that meets a talking Scarecrow... Jack.. & we see how Jack stays with this little boy through life...
It really surprised me when we found out who Jack is...
Its little things like that that just make me enjoy the book
I will say as well - the last chapter? I cried my eyes out... a wonderful way to end the book. That alone pushed it well over the edge of loving the book..
Loved that God is such an important "character" in this book... didnt expect this book to inpsire me to look at my relationships so deeply - especially my relationship with God.
Thumbs up Mr. Riebock
We start off the book with a little boy that meets a talking Scarecrow... Jack.. & we see how Jack stays with this little boy through life...
It really surprised me when we found out who Jack is...
Its little things like that that just make me enjoy the book
I will say as well - the last chapter? I cried my eyes out... a wonderful way to end the book. That alone pushed it well over the edge of loving the book..
Loved that God is such an important "character" in this book... didnt expect this book to inpsire me to look at my relationships so deeply - especially my relationship with God.
Thumbs up Mr. Riebock
July 15, 2012
This book challenged my notions of intimacy with "Jack." However, throughout I guarded myself from giving it more weight than it deserves, just as I did with "The Shack." It is A point of view. Every person's walk is so very personal, and while each person's problems and challenges are important to them, they don't necessarily make for good reading. I found Josh to be a big crybaby, which is probably the way I have appeared to many people in my life. I kept thinking, "What about Kristen?!" Josh was insufferably selfish. My husband told me once that everyone has problems and I was "just not that special" that mine should cause me so much anguish. HE WAS RIGHT!
The ramshackle structure was intriguing at first and then became annoying. The end was very abrupt, I thought.
I tried to "find the value" as I read, and I did glean some value. I've talked to "Jack" about it.
The ramshackle structure was intriguing at first and then became annoying. The end was very abrupt, I thought.
I tried to "find the value" as I read, and I did glean some value. I've talked to "Jack" about it.
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August 17, 2018I appreciate the message and themes of the book, but found the writing style difficult to enjoy. The book felt a little over the top poetic at times with its language. The way scenes are constructed also make the book seem more like a highlight reel than a fluent narrative. The author does have a couple of gems within the book that do stand out in how he describes the human condition that challenges the way I think about my own narrative.
November 22, 2016
If you call your personal savior Jack, this is the book for you. I liked the first chapter, but then it went downhill. I'm glad this guy is in a better place, but I think he over-simplified the process of growth, maturity, and values.
March 8, 2020
Amazing book. I've never felt so connected to an author before. Many of the things he reminisces about are feelings I've felt or thought. Nice to know I'm not the only one who feels this way.
October 10, 2022
This book was just… incredibly strange. It tells the tale of a man’s life and his internal grapplings with his sin and relationship with God, all while never mentioning God’s name directly. It deals heavily with grief and childhood trauma, and how these things affect actions as an adult. It talks about the darkness and pride of the human heart and is exceptionally revealing of human depravity. I really enjoyed this at points and there are some deep and thought provoking messages that were personally convicting.
However, I couldn’t help thinking that the theology in this book was a little… off. Josh’s relationship with God (or Jack, as he calls Him in the book) was often one sided, and although he acknowledges and repents of his sin, it seems that he still struggles intensely with his actions, irresponsibility and lack of trust with God. It seems like hundreds of convictions never led to true, true change. Im not sure if that’s what the author wants to convey or not, since it is an true story of his life.
The last chapter, an allegory of heaven, was definitely off theologically and seemed to be a fantasy dreamland Josh makes up. Although these type of books can be really helpful in thinking about God and our relationship with Him in a new perspective (think Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller) I am still left with the uncomfortable feeling of the author either being extremely weak, misguided, and not grounded in actual Scripture. You can’t have a deep relationship with God without reading His Word and worshipping him in corporate worship, not only private.
Furthermore, there is no mention of Jesus AT ALL. God seems like a watered down version of someone who just desires this sinner so much that He doesn’t hold them accountable.
The general feeling I am left with is that this whole book felt like Christianity on the Author’s terms, not God’s. Although deep and thought provoking, and I don’t regret reading it; I think there is something vaguely (or Blatantly)unsettling about this type of Christian literature.
However, I couldn’t help thinking that the theology in this book was a little… off. Josh’s relationship with God (or Jack, as he calls Him in the book) was often one sided, and although he acknowledges and repents of his sin, it seems that he still struggles intensely with his actions, irresponsibility and lack of trust with God. It seems like hundreds of convictions never led to true, true change. Im not sure if that’s what the author wants to convey or not, since it is an true story of his life.
The last chapter, an allegory of heaven, was definitely off theologically and seemed to be a fantasy dreamland Josh makes up. Although these type of books can be really helpful in thinking about God and our relationship with Him in a new perspective (think Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller) I am still left with the uncomfortable feeling of the author either being extremely weak, misguided, and not grounded in actual Scripture. You can’t have a deep relationship with God without reading His Word and worshipping him in corporate worship, not only private.
Furthermore, there is no mention of Jesus AT ALL. God seems like a watered down version of someone who just desires this sinner so much that He doesn’t hold them accountable.
The general feeling I am left with is that this whole book felt like Christianity on the Author’s terms, not God’s. Although deep and thought provoking, and I don’t regret reading it; I think there is something vaguely (or Blatantly)unsettling about this type of Christian literature.
September 6, 2018
Love the honesty
The honesty and feeling in this book made me want to read more right from the start. I like how spiritual things are presented in a new artistic way.
The honesty and feeling in this book made me want to read more right from the start. I like how spiritual things are presented in a new artistic way.
October 22, 2018
An incredibly relatable story of a human who experiences a relationship with their friend jack
October 29, 2018
Good effort, very original, honest and vulnerable. The end was forced. It was abrupt and it got a little carried away only to come to a hasty out of nowhere ending.
January 5, 2021
Neat premise which starts out thought-provoking, but gets very repetitive and monotonous towards the second half. If you read the first ten or so chapters, you get the gist.
January 16, 2022
This ... was not at all what I expected. I'm not even sure that I liked it. But I'll probably think about what the author had to say.
June 21, 2023
this book is EXTREMELY important, it’s so easy to forget we each are architects and arsonists.
May 1, 2012
In his latest book, Heroes and Monsters: An Honest Look at the Struggle within All of Us, Riebock begins his story as the child passenger in the wrecked car of his drunk-driving father. In the aftermath of the accident, in the shredded corn field, Riebock describes an encounter with a scarecrow named “Jack” who turns out to be a Christ-like representation that appears again and again throughout his life.
This book is an honest, transparent look into the struggle we all have between life in this flesh and having faith in something bigger, a faith in Christ that haunts us once we have encountered His presence. Our frailty as humans, given to sinful behavior often makes it challenging to enter into a relationship with Christ, without stumbling through it.
Josh stumbles.
He recounts his journey with sincerity and familiarity.
My favorite part comes somewhere near the middle when Josh gets baptised. I love his description of the moment when Christ finally grabs hold of him and won’t let go. I found myself emotional and teary over this awesome passage.
I love the message of this book. I wanted to love reading this book. The cover grabbed me and I immediately grew antsy to dive in and find out what lurked between the covers. Unfortunately, I found it difficult to really get into this book from a style perspective. The book reads like a personal journal of sorts, The addition of hand-drawn sketches contributes to its journalistic feel. It’s a bit ”stream of consciousness” in it’s presentation which I really do appreciate in small doses. However, here, I felt this method actually diminished the impact of his story. The sorrowful intensity of this story could pack more punch had a more accessible narrative style been used. While reading this book I felt as if I were watching a movie shot by amateurs with a hand-held camera–all that jostling and shaking, frankly, just detracted from the message.
One other distraction I found mildly irritating was Riebock’s over use of exclamation points (!!!). While I suppose it fits with his stylistic approach, still it bothered me and made the writing feel more juvenile that it should.
It pains me to say this but the bottom line for this book, is that the jostling style completely took away from the the depth and intensity of the story. Instead of allowing the words to have further impact, the some-what scattered style only distracted from the beautiful, Christ-filled message of redemption and forgiveness and hope.
After watching the trailer again, I have decided that this book would be a fantastic audio book. I watched a few of his book tour videos on youtube and undeniably, Riebock is a fantastic storyteller, which leaves me disappointed that I didn’t feel that way as I read his book.
*I recieved a copy of this book for free for the purpose of my review. The oppinions here are my own.
This book is an honest, transparent look into the struggle we all have between life in this flesh and having faith in something bigger, a faith in Christ that haunts us once we have encountered His presence. Our frailty as humans, given to sinful behavior often makes it challenging to enter into a relationship with Christ, without stumbling through it.
Josh stumbles.
He recounts his journey with sincerity and familiarity.
My favorite part comes somewhere near the middle when Josh gets baptised. I love his description of the moment when Christ finally grabs hold of him and won’t let go. I found myself emotional and teary over this awesome passage.
I love the message of this book. I wanted to love reading this book. The cover grabbed me and I immediately grew antsy to dive in and find out what lurked between the covers. Unfortunately, I found it difficult to really get into this book from a style perspective. The book reads like a personal journal of sorts, The addition of hand-drawn sketches contributes to its journalistic feel. It’s a bit ”stream of consciousness” in it’s presentation which I really do appreciate in small doses. However, here, I felt this method actually diminished the impact of his story. The sorrowful intensity of this story could pack more punch had a more accessible narrative style been used. While reading this book I felt as if I were watching a movie shot by amateurs with a hand-held camera–all that jostling and shaking, frankly, just detracted from the message.
One other distraction I found mildly irritating was Riebock’s over use of exclamation points (!!!). While I suppose it fits with his stylistic approach, still it bothered me and made the writing feel more juvenile that it should.
It pains me to say this but the bottom line for this book, is that the jostling style completely took away from the the depth and intensity of the story. Instead of allowing the words to have further impact, the some-what scattered style only distracted from the beautiful, Christ-filled message of redemption and forgiveness and hope.
After watching the trailer again, I have decided that this book would be a fantastic audio book. I watched a few of his book tour videos on youtube and undeniably, Riebock is a fantastic storyteller, which leaves me disappointed that I didn’t feel that way as I read his book.
*I recieved a copy of this book for free for the purpose of my review. The oppinions here are my own.
August 22, 2017
Masterfully written! Josh James Riebock didn't and doesn't have one of those Instagram lives that so many others pretend to have. No, Reibock has been dealt a few blows in his life, but by the grace of God, he found a way to get his story on paper. He actually wrote down and published what we all think, but know we shouldn't and at times allow those nasty thoughts to hit our tongue. (Lord, save us from ourselves) This was such a refreshing read, it was raw and real, we all love to pretend we don't need saving, that we can do it on our own, that we have it all together. I have no doubt that God wanted him to write, so he wasn't chasing a dream, but fulfilling God's mission for his life. (This will make more sense to you when you read it) I will read anything and everything this guy puts out, need to get to his first book next, "mY generation".
May 2, 2012
Josh James Riebock in his new book, “Heroes and Monsters” published by Baker Books gives us An Honest Look at the Struggle within All of Us .
From the Inside Flap: Heroes and Monsters is an unforgettable memoir of passion and redemption, a ragged look into a world at once wildly twisted and profoundly beautiful, an exposé of both the hero and the monster within all of us.
In this stunningly honest, thoroughly unconventional, and ultimately hopeful book, Josh James Riebock explores issues that form us into the people we are–issues of family, love, intimacy, dreams, grief, purpose, and the unexpected stops along the journey. With artful prose and vivid storytelling, he shows that pain and beauty are so inextricably linked that to lose the former costs us the latter.
If you’re grappling with life’s inconsistencies and trials,
if you’re searching for an encounter with something real,
if you’re craving a story that’s just a wee bit odd . . .
Heroes and Monsters is a fresh and exhilarating perspective on the uneven nature of life and the equally uneven people who inhabit it.
The Bible tells us that there is nothing that is not common to man. Our parents die, we face financial setbacks and all manners of crisis. It seems like it is happening to just us as we live through it but, in reality, the rest of mankind has endured through the same situation or worse. It is how we handle the situations that define us. Are we hero or monster?
Josh James Riebock tells us his story, not all of it pretty, but the storytelling is perfect. While we are living through his experiences we can find ourselves in there as well. Just like Josh we can find God and we can see if, in this situation, we will be a hero or monster. I liked this book and recommend it highly!
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Baker Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Inside Flap: Heroes and Monsters is an unforgettable memoir of passion and redemption, a ragged look into a world at once wildly twisted and profoundly beautiful, an exposé of both the hero and the monster within all of us.
In this stunningly honest, thoroughly unconventional, and ultimately hopeful book, Josh James Riebock explores issues that form us into the people we are–issues of family, love, intimacy, dreams, grief, purpose, and the unexpected stops along the journey. With artful prose and vivid storytelling, he shows that pain and beauty are so inextricably linked that to lose the former costs us the latter.
If you’re grappling with life’s inconsistencies and trials,
if you’re searching for an encounter with something real,
if you’re craving a story that’s just a wee bit odd . . .
Heroes and Monsters is a fresh and exhilarating perspective on the uneven nature of life and the equally uneven people who inhabit it.
The Bible tells us that there is nothing that is not common to man. Our parents die, we face financial setbacks and all manners of crisis. It seems like it is happening to just us as we live through it but, in reality, the rest of mankind has endured through the same situation or worse. It is how we handle the situations that define us. Are we hero or monster?
Josh James Riebock tells us his story, not all of it pretty, but the storytelling is perfect. While we are living through his experiences we can find ourselves in there as well. Just like Josh we can find God and we can see if, in this situation, we will be a hero or monster. I liked this book and recommend it highly!
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Baker Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 22, 2013
Wow! If you want hope and encouragement in your own struggle to be who you were create to be, then you won't be disappointed when you read this book. I love the imagery used to express the monster within us that holds us back from becoming who God intended us to be and how God draws us to Him in a way that is unique to us. For Josh, I believe God appealed to his creative mind by empowering him to tell his story of transformation in the unique metaphors and lyrical words that are used in this book.
I loved this book, not only for the encouragement, but also for the joy I experienced because of the way it was written. It is creative and rich in expressive language that makes my mind explode with delight like eating a big bite of wasabi sauce...deep cleansing clarity, excitement, and joy for no other reason but the words. I highlighted many passages that were insightful and exquisitely expressed. Here are a few examples, "Maybe I believe that once I truly love something well, I'll have fully existed, emerged from a vaporous state, become present, served my purpose- Gosh, I want Ditka (his dog) to know deeply I care, and how hard I'm trying to tell him. But does he? Jack must wonder the same things." or "Curiosity is oxygen for the dream!" and "Grief is such a kleptomaniac. It'll steal anything it can get its hands on-fun, faith, hope, relationships, sanity, serenity, rest, careers, passions, normalcy, identity. Grief will take it all and not think twice about it, remorseful."
I look forward to more books by Josh!
I loved this book, not only for the encouragement, but also for the joy I experienced because of the way it was written. It is creative and rich in expressive language that makes my mind explode with delight like eating a big bite of wasabi sauce...deep cleansing clarity, excitement, and joy for no other reason but the words. I highlighted many passages that were insightful and exquisitely expressed. Here are a few examples, "Maybe I believe that once I truly love something well, I'll have fully existed, emerged from a vaporous state, become present, served my purpose- Gosh, I want Ditka (his dog) to know deeply I care, and how hard I'm trying to tell him. But does he? Jack must wonder the same things." or "Curiosity is oxygen for the dream!" and "Grief is such a kleptomaniac. It'll steal anything it can get its hands on-fun, faith, hope, relationships, sanity, serenity, rest, careers, passions, normalcy, identity. Grief will take it all and not think twice about it, remorseful."
I look forward to more books by Josh!
February 10, 2017
Kniha, na kterou jsem úplnou náhodou narazil na Amazonu v akci za 1$ a je to jedna z nejlepších koupí, co jsem kdy udělal. Neuvěřitelně upřímný pohled na svůj život, ale bez zbytečné sebelítosti nebo sentimentu. Josh hledá své místo ve světě, svůj vztah k Bohu a důvod, proč vlastně nikdy nekončí naše hledání.
April 28, 2012
This is a book unlike any I have ever read. I was a bit turned off by it at first and entertained the thought of not finishing it. But I am super glad I decided to stick it out. "Heroes and Monsters" tells the story of Josh as he journey down life's highway. It is told from Josh's point of view and often times the reader feels like he is inside Josh's head and thinking these thoughts along with him. This story looks at the highs and lows of life (hence our "Heroes and Monsters") and got me thinking on some deeper issues. Throughout his journey Josh is joined by Jack (the Jesus character in this story) and is visited by a talking cow sent by Jack. It gets a little weird at times but if you can get past the weird parts there are some great insights and profound statements to be had. This book feels raw and does not seem to sugar coat life. Again, this is not your everyday read, but well worth it; it is both entertaining and profound.
-Curtis
-Curtis
May 30, 2012
This is a book unlike any I have ever read. I was a bit turned off by it at first and entertained the thought of not finishing it. But I am super glad I decided to stick it out. "Heroes and Monsters" tells the story of Josh as he journey down life's highway. It is told from Josh's point of view and often times the reader feels like he is inside Josh's head and thinking these thoughts along with him. This story looks at the highs and lows of life (hence our "Heroes and Monsters") and got me thinking on some deeper issues. Throughout his journey Josh is joined by Jack (the Jesus character in this story) and is visited by a talking cow sent by Jack. It gets a little weird at times but if you can get past the weird parts there are some great insights and profound statements to be had. This book feels raw and does not seem to sugar coat life. Again, this is not your everyday read, but well worth it; it is both entertaining and profound.
June 13, 2014
We all have that one book that changes our perspective on life, and makes us feel like less of a failure.
I didn't have this book until now.
I started reading H&M last September, my first year at university. I was insecure, trying to sort out personal relationships, and trying to become someone new. This book took me 10 months to read. And today, the last day of finals, after failure and heartbreak and betrayal and love and joy and everything that should come in one's first year flying solo, I finished the book.
This book helped me in my personal relationship with Jack, understanding that sometimes those quiet moments are the most important. God isn't some distant idea, he's a friend, someone to confide in. And that's the way Josh sees God. He's not pushy with religion. Jack is his friend, they hang out, chat about life.
Basically. Read this book.
I didn't have this book until now.
I started reading H&M last September, my first year at university. I was insecure, trying to sort out personal relationships, and trying to become someone new. This book took me 10 months to read. And today, the last day of finals, after failure and heartbreak and betrayal and love and joy and everything that should come in one's first year flying solo, I finished the book.
This book helped me in my personal relationship with Jack, understanding that sometimes those quiet moments are the most important. God isn't some distant idea, he's a friend, someone to confide in. And that's the way Josh sees God. He's not pushy with religion. Jack is his friend, they hang out, chat about life.
Basically. Read this book.
October 1, 2014
Can't decide if this is 3 stars or 4 stars. This book is different than anything I've ever read. The content reminds me a lot of Donald Miller-- a young man looks back over his life history to see all the ways that God has reached out to him and how he got in God's way. Except God is called Jack. And there's a talking cow. Josh (the author and the protagonist) tells of how his experiences with an alcoholic father and hoarder parents pushed him away from faith, but then in college "Jack" came to him and encouraged him to be baptized. Despite going on to work in a church and marrying a wonderful woman, Josh still struggled with doubt, and in the end the four stars I gave this book reflects my appreciation of its honesty. This is also the most unique testimony I've ever read, and while pieces made me roll my eyes, in general I found myself drawn in to Josh's life and honesty.
July 2, 2016
It took me awhile to get used to Riebock's writing style in his memoir. He jumps around quite a bit, and writes from an "inner-monologue" perspective composed of disjointed thoughts rather than completely formed sentences. Once I got used to it, I could relate to him, but mostly because I have a similar background. I can definitely see how someone would be thrown off by the spastic nature of his writing and if they don't share a similar personality. With that being said, overall I enjoyed Josh's story, especially because of the spiritual lessons learned. He uses fantastical, dream-like characters and scenarios to make commentaries on Christian principles, but I found myself wanting him to be more explicit with his references (God, the Gospel, Christ, etc.) I recommend this book if you're looking for something "different", but know that it may or may not resonate with you.
May 1, 2012
I picked up Riebock's book on kindle special deal for $1.99. I had not heard of Riebock but Heroes and Monsters looked like a memoir I would enjoy. By the end, I was surprised how much I enjoyed the memoir. Heroes and Monsters deals with regular issues that we all face and wrestle with - love, grief, depression, faith, but Riebock separates Heroes and Monsters from other faith based memoirs with his unique voice and narration. It reminded me of A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers because of the openness and honesty throughout. I look forward to reading more by the young author in the future.
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