The Ongoing Adventures of ASBO Jesus

by Jon Birch

“Like the boy who pointed out that the emperor was naked, Jon’s cartoons seem to cut through hype and hypocrisy and simply tell things the way they are..."

220 pages, Paperback

First published August 31, 2011

Reviews

[Jenny Sanders · Rating 3 out of 5]

John Birch changes our negative understanding of ASBO (anti-social behavioural order) by applying it to Jesus in the sense of: 'Alright, Sensational, Beautiful, Original'.

I hadn't come across the artist or his work prior to finding this book. Birch's cartoons are certainly a good antidote to religious pomposity. His simple drawings are designed to draw laughter but also prompt thinking and reflection. Some will make you wince and some suggest a liberal view of faith which won't sit comfortably. That's OK because they will also prompt you to consider how much more radical and revolutionary was, and is, the person of Jesus Christ than His presentation by institutional church so frequently suggests.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book is a satirical (or maybe not) look at todays church. The images are painfully accurate and bring about a feeling of understanding… like I am not the only person seeing/ experiencing these realities.
I think every deconstructing Christian needs to have this book in their hands and vow to not make those same mistakes in their new faith walk.
While I didn’t understand every cartoon (English culture that I am not privy to), the meaning still came across loud and clear and I am thankful that I stumbled upon this book today.