The Manger Is Empty: Stories in Time

by Walter Wangerin Jr.

From Library Like Miz Lil and the Chronicles of Grace ( LJ 2/1/89) and much of his other writings, Wangerin's new collection of stories, parables, and poems shines with his unique blend of power and vulnerability, passion and faith. Time and time again he discerns Jesus' presence in the stuff of everyday reality, just as his seven-year-old daughter, playing Mary in a Christmas pageant, suddenly resolves her grief over the death of an elderly friend as she stares with fresh eyes at the doll in the manger. Christmas is an explicit focus in the first part of the "The Season in White"--but broadly speaking, an incarnational theme also graces pieces in Ordinary "The Seasons Green" and in The Final "Purple." The Manger Is Empty is highly recommended for most collections. Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Genres: Short Stories, Christmas, Christian, Faith, Holiday, Christian Living, Poetry

184 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Walter Wangerin Jr. is widely recognized as one of the most gifted writers writing today on the issues of faith and spirituality. Starting with the renowned Book of the Dun Cow, Wangerin's writing career has encompassed most every genre: fiction, essay, short story, children's story, meditation, and biblical exposition. His writing voice is immediately recognizable, and his fans number in the millions. The author of over forty books, Wangerin has won the National Book Award, New York Times Best Children's Book of the Year Award, and several Gold Medallions, including best-fiction awards for both The Book of God and Paul: A Novel. He lives in Valparaiso, Indiana, where he is Senior Research Professor at Valparaiso University.

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so glad I started exploring this author! This is the first book I recall reading by Wangerin and I've already made plans to read it again next Christmas. A few of the poems were beyond my grasp, but some of the stories and essays were particularly profound and thought provoking. I'll be reading selections from this aloud to the family next December!

[Anne White · Rating 4 out of 5]

A special edition of the title story from the longer book of the same name. Wangerin recalls the special connection that was formed between an elderly woman, Odessa, and the children of his congregation, especially his daughter Mary. When Odessa passes away, he does not know how to comfort Mary, but she suddenly sees a connection with the Christmas story that, in turn, deepens her father's understanding.

[Rachel Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was my first exposure to Walter Wangerin, Jr, but I am now committed to reading everything he’s ever written. I fell hard for the is collection of stories and poems, and I must say it is the best writing I’ve ever experienced. I savored and enjoyed every word.

It is divided into 3 movements — Advent (White), Real Time (Green), and Final Advent (Purple). There is a stunning poem toward the end of the book that explains the colors. This will be one I reach for every year come Advent into the New Year.

[Brandon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wangerin has such a beautiful way of telling ordinary stories that help you pay attention to life and God’s activity in the world. He’s not going to wow you with dramatic stories or elaborate prose. This collection, like the others I’ve read, doesn’t complicate faith and put it on a pedestal for the spiritual saints. Here you’ll find stories about forgiveness, family, regret. The reason for the four stars is the insertion of the poetry. It’s just not his strength or my preference.

[Lorie Swearingen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars means it's good enough to own a copy and reread. Short, well written, thoughtful. I'll have it out at Christmas time.
My particular edition has a dumb cover illustration, but I've often wondered if illustrators read the books, so I avert my gaze.

[Phillip Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

(The description of this book listed in the main entry of this title is incorrect.)

This is a lovely autobiographical story by Wangerin concerning an incident involving his daughter at Christmas in 1981.

[Rosie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best stories in it: "The Manger is Empty" (the title story); "The Hornbill"; "Saxifrage, the Break-Rock"

[Tom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful writing, I used chapter 2, The Hornbill, in my Christmas Day sermon.