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Joseph
Sometimes the ways of God seem like Heiroglyphics.
Sold by his brothers into slavery in a strange land, the pain in Joseph's ankles matched the pain in his heart. Where now was El Shaddai? But Jetur, the Ishmaelite merchant, saw something special in him. By prayerful diligence Joseph worked his way into the confidence of his new owner, Potiphar. "At this rate, you'll be running the entire country before you are done," teased a scribe. Soon slaves were scrambling to meet his needs as he had for others.
But heart-rending rumors from home, of the deaths of Er and Onan, of the affair of Judah and Tamar, exacted their toll. And success has its snares. Her name was Lady Tanefret. She had connections, and she had Potiphar. But it wasn't Potiphar she wanted.
Based upon meticulous research, Fivash paints a compelling panorama of Egyptian society, with authentic Egyptian names, clothing, and customs, and draws us deeply into Josephs world. You will cheer as he maintains his integrity through prison and through the labyrinth of court intrigue to become ruler under Pharaoh. You will delight in his conquest of the heart of beautiful Asenath. And you will be left with a deeper faith in his God.
The author creates a detailed picture of daily life in Egypt with a cast of nearly 80 vibrant characters. Her narrative, filled with fresh insights into one of the great stories of all time, unlocks the secrets of the culture that cradled the Exodus.
Sold by his brothers into slavery in a strange land, the pain in Joseph's ankles matched the pain in his heart. Where now was El Shaddai? But Jetur, the Ishmaelite merchant, saw something special in him. By prayerful diligence Joseph worked his way into the confidence of his new owner, Potiphar. "At this rate, you'll be running the entire country before you are done," teased a scribe. Soon slaves were scrambling to meet his needs as he had for others.
But heart-rending rumors from home, of the deaths of Er and Onan, of the affair of Judah and Tamar, exacted their toll. And success has its snares. Her name was Lady Tanefret. She had connections, and she had Potiphar. But it wasn't Potiphar she wanted.
Based upon meticulous research, Fivash paints a compelling panorama of Egyptian society, with authentic Egyptian names, clothing, and customs, and draws us deeply into Josephs world. You will cheer as he maintains his integrity through prison and through the labyrinth of court intrigue to become ruler under Pharaoh. You will delight in his conquest of the heart of beautiful Asenath. And you will be left with a deeper faith in his God.
The author creates a detailed picture of daily life in Egypt with a cast of nearly 80 vibrant characters. Her narrative, filled with fresh insights into one of the great stories of all time, unlocks the secrets of the culture that cradled the Exodus.
463 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2002
27 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Terri L. Fivash
15 books118 followersI have never lived more than 30 miles from Lake Michigan. I was born on the east side, grew up on the west side, and now live on the east side again. However, I rarely have time to go there! I attended Andrews University, graduating with a Master's Degree in History in 1986. I am a member of Phi Alpha Theta, the national honors society for History; and a charter member of the Andrews University chapter of Phi Kappa Phi, the national interdisciplinary honors society. I began writing for publication in 2000 after seeing the need for books about biblical characters which were not only biblically accurate, but historically and culturally accurate as well. My husband and I have been married for over 30 years and have two children. We have always lived in the same house!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 29, 2014
My favorite book of all time!
Terri Fivash adds a whole new dimension to this story with her thick research and background on the era. The most incredible Biblical narrative I've ever read!
Update: I just finished reading it for the third time, and it's still my favorite book!
Update: I just finished reading it for the third time, and it's still my favorite book!
April 17, 2008
Hands down this is my favorite book about Joseph. Fivash constructs an entire world for her readers, one which I'd not considered, with a wealth of characters and locations. It's not enough that she gives Joseph a unique 3-D function, she also does that to his supporting cast of Characters, a fact that goes a long way towards making this book so engaging. Hands down this is the best book I've ever read. I've read this book easily around 35+ times and each re-read brings to light new information or experiences.
Fivash's Joseph begins with his being thrown in the well and then being sold. His story continues with an interesting look at the Ishmaelite trader and the likely familial connection that would have been had. The motivations behind the purchase and sale, present an interesting 'could have been' for readers. Continue on with a look into the societal restraints of the day, as well as the inherently political atmosphere that regulated the daily constraints for those within Egyptian society.
If you ever take a chance to pick up this book you will be in for a treat and a surprise as there is much to learn and explore. I hope you take this chance to explore Terri Fivash's Joseph and get to know an entirely complex world and society through 460 pages that always seem to speed by once I pick up the book.
Fivash's Joseph begins with his being thrown in the well and then being sold. His story continues with an interesting look at the Ishmaelite trader and the likely familial connection that would have been had. The motivations behind the purchase and sale, present an interesting 'could have been' for readers. Continue on with a look into the societal restraints of the day, as well as the inherently political atmosphere that regulated the daily constraints for those within Egyptian society.
If you ever take a chance to pick up this book you will be in for a treat and a surprise as there is much to learn and explore. I hope you take this chance to explore Terri Fivash's Joseph and get to know an entirely complex world and society through 460 pages that always seem to speed by once I pick up the book.
May 2, 2011
Excellent Book, The very best I have ever read and I am a true fan of Terri's work. Love it hated to end it it was that good. brought the compassion out of me and overflowing. Drew me closer to wanting to know God. Awesome book, Truly Awesome. I hurried up and brought the others. Didn't care how much it cost.
October 14, 2021
I loved this book! I couldn't put it down. The historical detail and intrigue had me reading till all hours of the morning. I have re-read it several times and every time it just reaffirms to me that even though you can't see where your life is headed, you never know what all the tiny mundane everyday things are leading to, possibly something great! Just have faith!
November 7, 2018
Wow, this book was so amazing. This book took the story of Joseph and threw it into a new light. It really lets you feel the emotion that Joseph must've felt and allowed you to put yourself in his situation. You know the story, you know what happens and how it ends, but at the same time, you never know exactly how you're going to get there. I loved how this story keeps you guessing and always has an underlying tone of hope. Whenever things get really bad, whenever Joseph is about to lose all hope, God comes to him, He helps Joseph and lets him know that he is never alone. I really liked that about this book.
*Sigh* it's just so good.
Religious or not you should totally read it.
You could just read it to learn about Ancient Egypt, or you could read it to give you hope, or just read it because it's really really REALLY good.
*Sigh* it's just so good.
Religious or not you should totally read it.
You could just read it to learn about Ancient Egypt, or you could read it to give you hope, or just read it because it's really really REALLY good.
April 26, 2013
A wonderful read.
I couldn't put this book down - read it late into the night... Joseph's story is told quite beautifully; the characters are vivid,the plots are neatly interwoven, and the descriptions of locations, clothes, markets, foods, etc, gets your visual imagination going and transports you to that time in history.
It's also very true to the real biblical account.
Terri is definitely a gifted writer!
I couldn't put this book down - read it late into the night... Joseph's story is told quite beautifully; the characters are vivid,the plots are neatly interwoven, and the descriptions of locations, clothes, markets, foods, etc, gets your visual imagination going and transports you to that time in history.
It's also very true to the real biblical account.
Terri is definitely a gifted writer!
January 4, 2026
There is something just so magical about this book for me. Whether it is the themes, or the incredible character work or the really excellent writing. But this story just comes alive in a completely different way than ever before. And it is incredible every single time.
May 22, 2012
This is an amazing book! I read it, then loaned it to my friends who read it through twice. Then when I got it back, the cover was damaged by their continuous perusal. Fortunately, I was able to get it replaced at the bookstore I purchased it from. Then I read it aloud with my husband. He is usually not too interested in the books I choose, but he really liked this one. After a while, I read it through again. Now, after several month's (hopefully I'll forget enough that it will be like reading a new story), I'll read it again. All I can say is, it is a wonderful rendition of the story of Joseph! Makes him COME ALIVE, as if I'm listening to and seeing clips of Joseph's personal story of grief and triumph. This is one of the greatest stories in the Bible, and Terri Fivash has certainly brought it's main character to life. I look forward to meeting him in heaven and hearing from his own mouth the events that took place to bring him to become the greatest man next to the Pharoah of Egypt! I like Terri Fivash's writing style, and wish I could write like her. Maybe someday I'll attempt it. Who knows but that she has inspired a number of us would be writers...
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January 16, 2009A wonderful look at the story of Joseph. She did a lot of research into the culture of Egypt during the time of Joseph. This story really opens your eyes to the interactions God had with those who loved him and chose to follow him, and still has today. It's a very down to earth story and the struggles that Joseph had are real and relatable. I've read it several times and probably will read it several more.
September 7, 2016
Amazing book! Fivash brings Joseph to life and you can't help but cry and rejoice for him. I love the fact that Fivash researches the culture and adds reference cultural notes. It really gives a greater understanding of the political situation that God had placed Joseph in. I knew once I read this book that I was hooked on Terri Fivash. Her stories never disappoint and always keep me on edge waiting for the next book. God has truly blessed Fivash with an amazing gift!
November 15, 2015
My sister gave me this book after she read and recommended it. It's not something I would have picked up on my own, but it was very good! It brought to life and clarified the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors.
May 20, 2012
This. Book. Is. Amazing.
June 4, 2012
Its was so gripping and I loved it.
February 2, 2024
Recommended to me by a good friend! The first time I picked it up, I quit reading it because I felt the wording was too elementary (probably because I had just finished some books written in an older English style). But it just sat for six months on my bookshelf I ended up reading it and eventually quite enjoyed the writing style. It was a very interesting take on a familiar story and while I’m not entirely sure the story represents all elements of a real relationship with God, I think it did demonstrate some characteristics. I also didn’t expect a little romance in there which was nice. Might read this to my kids or something as a fun book and wouldn’t be opposed to checking out some of her other books! It’s a very nice read before bed.
October 17, 2025
I was sad when this book was finished. I wanted it to last longer and it is not a short book in the first place. I loved the historical details which give you a taste of life in that time and place. Whenever the author made a judgement call on the possible political situation or family relationships, it made me think about the details that the Bible leaves unsaid and her ideas are all very plausible.
June 7, 2023
This is such a good book! Really enjoyable fiction based on the story of Joseph in the Bible. There were a lot of characters, and the author did a great job of interweaving their stories. If you like biblical/historical fiction and don’t mind books that are a little on the long side, I highly recommend reading this book.
November 15, 2024
This was lent to me by a friend and I was not expecting to like it. The idea of Biblical fiction seemed odd to me and I thought it would detract from the Biblical account. On the contrary, this gave me a new appreciation for the story of Joseph. Inspiring and uplifting. Made some insights that I will enjoy reflecting on.
October 3, 2018
I liked this book a lot. It’s very relatable and descriptive. I like how the author put her imagination to use and created interesting dialogue and other events. I also like how the author used traditional time period terminology and customs to make it culturally authentic.
March 25, 2021
Amazingly written, one of my fav books a teen despite it being a Biblical narrative. Actually what probably made it so remarkable is that it is lifted out of the modern Christian whitewashing of the ancient Egyptian and Hebrew stories.
October 30, 2018
I loved how both Joseph and his rival are portrayed in this book. It has some action and lots of playing of the wits. Some politics. And an overall great story. Re-read. Clean.
February 11, 2021
Hands down my favorite biblical fiction. I've reread this book so many times :)
March 4, 2022
Amazing!
August 11, 2022
One of my favorite books easily.
June 28, 2023
Love this book. The author definitely tells a good story and sticks to what the Bible says
December 23, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! Brought the story of Joseph to life for me! Beautifully written while still staying true to the Word.
January 9, 2024
My all -time favorite.
November 17, 2024
Got me back into reading
June 11, 2025
My absolute favorite book of all time!
August 5, 2020
Absolutely love this book!!!
September 29, 2025
The novel starts with Joseph already in the pit. I think this highlights one of my main problems. Shouldn't we have a few chapters before this, to show Joseph interacting with his father and brothers so that we care about the family breakup? Instead, those sections of the story—and honestly, a lot of the explicitly Biblical parts—feel rushed and perfunctory. What Fivash really wants to write is ancient Egyptian politics.
To be fair, there's a certain logic to this. Joseph spends 22 years in Egypt, and most of his time was spent running Potiphar's household and then serving as vizier. But y'know, that's not really what this story is supposed to be about? If you're looking for a story about ancient Egypt, you'll probably like this, and I actually do appreciate that Fivash devises a reason why the Pharaoh would appoint a random oracular foreigner to be his second-in-command. But I'm really more interested in the family drama and divine destiny than in Joseph buying goods in the marketplace, or even uncovering a convoluted assassination plot involving characters that I struggle to keep track of.
There are, naturally, time skips, but unfortunately, they don't pair well with the over-attention to minor details and occasionally rushed character development. Like, we get one scene where Joseph meets this female character, then in the very next scene it's months later and she's confessing her love for him, and then the next thing we know, she's married to his friend instead. Huh?
I did like that one scene with the cup, where Joseph has a breakdown and works through his years of trauma. There's also a very unique characterization for Asenath.
Anyway, it's good for what it is, which explains why so many other readers like it, but it's not really what I was looking for. For all its flaws, I prefer Joseph: King of Dreams. Really underrated, go check it out if you want to see what the Prince of Egypt crew can pull off with a direct-to-DVD budget.
To be fair, there's a certain logic to this. Joseph spends 22 years in Egypt, and most of his time was spent running Potiphar's household and then serving as vizier. But y'know, that's not really what this story is supposed to be about? If you're looking for a story about ancient Egypt, you'll probably like this, and I actually do appreciate that Fivash devises a reason why the Pharaoh would appoint a random oracular foreigner to be his second-in-command. But I'm really more interested in the family drama and divine destiny than in Joseph buying goods in the marketplace, or even uncovering a convoluted assassination plot involving characters that I struggle to keep track of.
There are, naturally, time skips, but unfortunately, they don't pair well with the over-attention to minor details and occasionally rushed character development. Like, we get one scene where Joseph meets this female character, then in the very next scene it's months later and she's confessing her love for him, and then the next thing we know, she's married to his friend instead. Huh?
I did like that one scene with the cup, where Joseph has a breakdown and works through his years of trauma. There's also a very unique characterization for Asenath.
Anyway, it's good for what it is, which explains why so many other readers like it, but it's not really what I was looking for. For all its flaws, I prefer Joseph: King of Dreams. Really underrated, go check it out if you want to see what the Prince of Egypt crew can pull off with a direct-to-DVD budget.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews