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The Bard and the Bible: A Shakespeare Devotional
365 Devotions pairing Scripture from the King James Bible and lines from Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets.
- GenresChristianDevotional
384 pages, Hardcover
Published August 9, 2016
19 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Bob Hostetler
60 books137 followersBob Hostetler is an award-winning writer, editor, and speaker from southwestern Ohio. His books, which include the award-winning Don’t Check Your Brains at the Door (co-authored with Josh McDowell) and the novel, The Bone Box, have sold over 3 million copies. He has won two Gold Medallion Awards, four Ohio Associated Press awards, and an Amy Foundation Award. He is the founding pastor of Cobblestone Community Church in Oxford, Ohio. He and his wife Robin have two grown children, Aubrey and Aaron, who have given them four beautiful grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
July 24, 2016
Bob Hostetler is a self-described Shakespeare lover. This pastor and Christian author also loves the rich words in the King James Version of the Bible. THE BARD AND THE BIBLE provide Hostetler the opportunity to merge his two loves into a single volume of 365 daily devotions.
I enjoy devotional books like this one because in a few minutes you can consistently focus on a single thought. In THE BARD AND THE BIBLE, each devotion has a snappy title, like July 17 “To Be or Not to Be.” Then a short Shakespeare quotation like “To be, or not to be: that is the question.” Hamlet II, 1, 56 Next comes a verse or two of the Bible like “For me to live, and to die is gain….what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betxixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ: which is far better. Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.” Philippians 1:21-24 After the KJV verses, Hostetler writes a short pointed devotion which concludes in a personal question for the reader like, “Are you living for someone...or something?” Finally each devotion wraps with a pointed fact about Shakespeare.
The experience of reading these devotions will draw you to the Bible and to the well-loved plays of Shakespeare. As Hostetler writes in the introduction, “Whether you read each day’s entry in the morning over a cup of coffee or on your lunch break or in the evening before you go to bed, let the phrases, scenes, beauty, and truth of these pages linger in your mind and seep into your heart. Be inspired. Be challenged. Be changed.” Hostetler has built a website at www.bardandbible.com
I appreciated the craft and care which Hostetler put into THE BARD AND THE BIBLE. I highly recommend it.
I enjoy devotional books like this one because in a few minutes you can consistently focus on a single thought. In THE BARD AND THE BIBLE, each devotion has a snappy title, like July 17 “To Be or Not to Be.” Then a short Shakespeare quotation like “To be, or not to be: that is the question.” Hamlet II, 1, 56 Next comes a verse or two of the Bible like “For me to live, and to die is gain….what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betxixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ: which is far better. Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.” Philippians 1:21-24 After the KJV verses, Hostetler writes a short pointed devotion which concludes in a personal question for the reader like, “Are you living for someone...or something?” Finally each devotion wraps with a pointed fact about Shakespeare.
The experience of reading these devotions will draw you to the Bible and to the well-loved plays of Shakespeare. As Hostetler writes in the introduction, “Whether you read each day’s entry in the morning over a cup of coffee or on your lunch break or in the evening before you go to bed, let the phrases, scenes, beauty, and truth of these pages linger in your mind and seep into your heart. Be inspired. Be challenged. Be changed.” Hostetler has built a website at www.bardandbible.com
I appreciated the craft and care which Hostetler put into THE BARD AND THE BIBLE. I highly recommend it.
December 30, 2019
This is the second time I've read Hostetler's daily devotional featuring short excerpts from various Shakespearean works and passages from the Holy Bible. I have the same opinion of the book and may have enjoyed it even more this time because I've read more of Shakespeare and can appreciate the facts and trivia the author includes.
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Perhaps you've read some of William Shakespeare's plays and thought "Hey, that line sounds like it could have come from the Bible." I know someone who has thought it. And he took his love for all things Shakespeare to write a devotional based on the Bard's plays and God's Word.
Each of the 365 devotions begins with a line from a Shakespeare play, noting which one it's taken from and the act, scene, etc. Following that is a scripture that coincides with it. For instance:
One of the best things about these devotions, in my opinion anyway, is the final section of each one. Hostetler shines here with his knowledge of the Bard and his works. He obviously enjoys sharing little tidbits with us.
Bob shows up as a favorite author of mine. His book "The Red Letter Life," was also a 5-star selection for me and shelved as a "repeater." https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
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Perhaps you've read some of William Shakespeare's plays and thought "Hey, that line sounds like it could have come from the Bible." I know someone who has thought it. And he took his love for all things Shakespeare to write a devotional based on the Bard's plays and God's Word.
Each of the 365 devotions begins with a line from a Shakespeare play, noting which one it's taken from and the act, scene, etc. Following that is a scripture that coincides with it. For instance:
"How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a naughty world." The Merchant of Venice, V.i.90Hostetler provides a narrative explaining how the words of each player relate to truth expressed in the Bible. This portion of each devotion includes encouragement and application ideas for the reader. Then the author presents a challenge to act out that truth in daily events.
"Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16"
One of the best things about these devotions, in my opinion anyway, is the final section of each one. Hostetler shines here with his knowledge of the Bard and his works. He obviously enjoys sharing little tidbits with us.
Bob shows up as a favorite author of mine. His book "The Red Letter Life," was also a 5-star selection for me and shelved as a "repeater." https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 23, 2016
Bob Hostetler’s new devotional, The Bard and the Bible, reads like the author is sitting across from you in a coffee shop each morning offering you a friendly jumpstart that is something like a pithy sermonette that includes a little history lesson, a self-check for mental health, surprising references to pop culture and art, as well as a thoughty question or two to uproot your complacency. And all in the context of Shakespeare’s plays and poetry. Not just for literary types (though they will enjoy the Shakespeare and references to other works) since Hostetler provides an easy-to-follow quick context for each work he references. And not just for Bible junkies since Hostetler provides simple quick context for those references too. Hostetler manages to keep his ultimately serious messages easy to take by offering witty parenthetical asides in second person, making sure you smile a little on your way to being confronted by probing subject matter. Though Hostetler’s style is basically colloquial, his purpose is to teach the reader to take seriously the challenge of his January 9 entry, Deep Waters: “It takes a wise person to discern such things (our motives, thoughts, and intentions) and bring them to light”. His intent is to encourage us to “cultivate the inner life” each time we pick up the book. (It also takes a wise person to keep his vast knowledge of Shakespeare and Biblical theology slightly under wrap so those of us who haven’t read every play can grasp something important in a few paragraphs a day.)
September 25, 2016
This book: to be or not to be a hit! TO BE! Wonderful devotional for fans of Shakespeare and even those who aren't! Beautiful tie ins as you read along. I discovered as I talked to a Shakespeare professor that Shakespeare is credited with translating some of the King James bible. I see why. Never realized how much he took from scripture. This is a wonderful devotional and I can honestly say, for anyone. Men and women, alike, will love the beautiful flow and artistic technique. Don't miss this one! Definitely TO BE!
July 27, 2016
Shakespeare and the King James Bible—what could be a better combination? The Bard and the Bible blends the most influential works in the English language in ways that will challenge and inspire readers. Through quotes, short devotional reflections, and a sprinkling of fascinating background information, Bob Hostettler offers readers a thoroughly enjoyable devotional.
December 16, 2019
If you like Shakespeare, the Bible and yearlong daily devotionals, check this one out. Personally, I like the first two but not the latter. I’d prefer a book that just shows Shakespeare’s use of the Bible. My favorite parts of this were the nuggets of history and random trivia from the Bard’s life. I personally didn’t find the devotional part spiritually enriching on a regular basis. But, I don’t like daily devotionals (especially year long ones!) too much. That said, for any fan of Shakespeare who is a person of faith, this one’s worth it.
September 7, 2016
If you grew up with the 1600s English of the King James Bible, chances are you had less difficulty understanding William Shakespeare than other classmates. So it’s a wonder that no one—until now—has brought the two together in a devotional book—especially since Shakespeare was evidently “well-versed” in Scripture.
I was delighted and honored to receive a review copy of the one-year devotional titled The Bard and the Bible by Robert Hostetler in exchange for my honest appraisal.
This amazing devotional book with the author’s signature humor combines a pastor’s biblical insights with an impressive knowledge, background, and obvious love of Shakespeare’s work—all arranged more or less in chronological order. So even if your Shakespeare is a little “shaky,” this book can serve as a type of Cliff’s Notes to help you become better conversant with the Bard of Avon and his long-enduring literature. Hostetler explains archaic language in both types of quotations. For example, here’s Shakespeare: “I’ll note you in my book of memory / To scourge you for this apprehension.” Hostetler renders it: “I won’t forget this—and you’ll get yours, bub!”
Each day’s reading begins with a quotation from Shakespeare, a correlating Scripture passage, a plot summary or some background, and a brief spiritual application. Even though the author is a pastor, don’t look for a heavy theological treatise in these devotionals. Hostetler uses a light touch and ends his spiritual applications with a thought-provoking question.
At the bottom of each page he includes interesting Shakespeare factoids or trivia, such as these: “The word ‘honest’ and its variants are used more than 52 times in Othello,” and “Shakespeare’s sources for Coriolanus included Plutarch’s Lives and Livy’s History of Rome,” and “Hamlet has been translated into Klingon, the fictional language from television’s
Star Trek.”
I feel certain that readers of The Bard and the Bible will find themselves fulfilling the author’s hopes in the introduction: “Be inspired. Be challenged. Be changed.”
I was delighted and honored to receive a review copy of the one-year devotional titled The Bard and the Bible by Robert Hostetler in exchange for my honest appraisal.
This amazing devotional book with the author’s signature humor combines a pastor’s biblical insights with an impressive knowledge, background, and obvious love of Shakespeare’s work—all arranged more or less in chronological order. So even if your Shakespeare is a little “shaky,” this book can serve as a type of Cliff’s Notes to help you become better conversant with the Bard of Avon and his long-enduring literature. Hostetler explains archaic language in both types of quotations. For example, here’s Shakespeare: “I’ll note you in my book of memory / To scourge you for this apprehension.” Hostetler renders it: “I won’t forget this—and you’ll get yours, bub!”
Each day’s reading begins with a quotation from Shakespeare, a correlating Scripture passage, a plot summary or some background, and a brief spiritual application. Even though the author is a pastor, don’t look for a heavy theological treatise in these devotionals. Hostetler uses a light touch and ends his spiritual applications with a thought-provoking question.
At the bottom of each page he includes interesting Shakespeare factoids or trivia, such as these: “The word ‘honest’ and its variants are used more than 52 times in Othello,” and “Shakespeare’s sources for Coriolanus included Plutarch’s Lives and Livy’s History of Rome,” and “Hamlet has been translated into Klingon, the fictional language from television’s
Star Trek.”
I feel certain that readers of The Bard and the Bible will find themselves fulfilling the author’s hopes in the introduction: “Be inspired. Be challenged. Be changed.”
August 21, 2016
Award-winning pastor, writer, and best-selling author of over 30 books, Bob Hostetler, is center-stage once again with his latest release connecting the words of William Shakespeare to the Word of God in this unique devotional titled, The Bard and the Bible. He culls a year’s worth of daily readings together by tying select verses from Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets to Scripture.
Bob’s expertise in Bible teaching, coupled with his wit and humor, draws out the meat in his easy-to-digest exposition of Shakespearean lines, in the context of both the play it is extracted from, and the biblical truth it pertains to. This deepens our understanding of Scripture as illustrated in the plot and characters of Shakespeare’s work, and the practical application we can make of that to our own life.
I am thoroughly enjoying this devotional, keeping it at the ready next to my quiet place corner with my regular reading. As I slowly work through each day’s selection, I anticipate coming to the bottom of the page. There, Bob includes two fascinating facts about the play or poem from which the reading was inspired. Often a bunny trail of literary history teases me to search out more information on these tasty little details.
As a former English, drama, and literature teacher, tasked with producing a middle school Shakespearean play each year, I always drew out the biblical principles within the context of the play we produced. Teaching students to discern the biblical worldview (or lack thereof) within a literary work was part of our Christian school program. I would have loved to have The Bard and the Bible as a resource to enrich our lessons. For details about how I’d use this book in an academic setting of a homeschool or Christian classroom, visit http://pageantwagonpublishing.com/usi...
I highly recommend this devotional for lovers of God, lovers of literature, and lovers of learning.
Bob’s expertise in Bible teaching, coupled with his wit and humor, draws out the meat in his easy-to-digest exposition of Shakespearean lines, in the context of both the play it is extracted from, and the biblical truth it pertains to. This deepens our understanding of Scripture as illustrated in the plot and characters of Shakespeare’s work, and the practical application we can make of that to our own life.
I am thoroughly enjoying this devotional, keeping it at the ready next to my quiet place corner with my regular reading. As I slowly work through each day’s selection, I anticipate coming to the bottom of the page. There, Bob includes two fascinating facts about the play or poem from which the reading was inspired. Often a bunny trail of literary history teases me to search out more information on these tasty little details.
As a former English, drama, and literature teacher, tasked with producing a middle school Shakespearean play each year, I always drew out the biblical principles within the context of the play we produced. Teaching students to discern the biblical worldview (or lack thereof) within a literary work was part of our Christian school program. I would have loved to have The Bard and the Bible as a resource to enrich our lessons. For details about how I’d use this book in an academic setting of a homeschool or Christian classroom, visit http://pageantwagonpublishing.com/usi...
I highly recommend this devotional for lovers of God, lovers of literature, and lovers of learning.
August 9, 2016
Periodically an idea surfaces that seems naturally infused with genius. So obvious, yet hitherto unaddressed.
Bob Hostetler’s recently released The Bard and The Bible reflects such a dynamic.
The early years of the 17th century are described as the ‘golden age’ of English literature epitomized by the publication of Shakespeare’s unequalled works and the production of the elegant King James Bible.
By fusing the life-giving words of scripture with the evocative language of Shakespeare in a daily devotional Bob Hostetler is giving us a rich resource for inspiration and illumination.
The overall structure follows the rhythms, seasons and national themes present in the calendar year in a familiar 365 one-page devotional style. The text is eminently, readable, yet so inherently rich and graceful.
The combination is, in the deepest sense of the word, inspiring.
At the conclusion of each page are additional historic and linguistic factoids that serve to supplement the age, life and language of Shakespeare.
So, thank you Bob Hostetler, this is surely destined to become a best-seller, used throughout the years, for many years, by many people.
Count me in that number.
Richard Munn, Colonel
The Salvation Army
USA Eastern Territory
Secretary for Theology and Christian Ethics
Bob Hostetler’s recently released The Bard and The Bible reflects such a dynamic.
The early years of the 17th century are described as the ‘golden age’ of English literature epitomized by the publication of Shakespeare’s unequalled works and the production of the elegant King James Bible.
By fusing the life-giving words of scripture with the evocative language of Shakespeare in a daily devotional Bob Hostetler is giving us a rich resource for inspiration and illumination.
The overall structure follows the rhythms, seasons and national themes present in the calendar year in a familiar 365 one-page devotional style. The text is eminently, readable, yet so inherently rich and graceful.
The combination is, in the deepest sense of the word, inspiring.
At the conclusion of each page are additional historic and linguistic factoids that serve to supplement the age, life and language of Shakespeare.
So, thank you Bob Hostetler, this is surely destined to become a best-seller, used throughout the years, for many years, by many people.
Count me in that number.
Richard Munn, Colonel
The Salvation Army
USA Eastern Territory
Secretary for Theology and Christian Ethics
March 21, 2017
I would come out of a coma to read the Bible or help a friend, especially a brilliant, funny friend like Bob Hostettler. But Shakespeare mingled with Scripture? No way could this be an interesting read, I thought. I may need a third cup of coffee to help me stay awake while reading it.
I was wrong.
Although I'm not a huge Shakespeare fan--oh, I already said that--The Bard and The Bible is the quintessential devotional: brimming with wisdom, sprinkled with humor, and spiced up with enough Shakespeare minutiae to help me compete with my husband the next time we play Trivial Pursuit.
Bob has created an entertaining yet spiritually nourishing marriage of quotes from Shakespeare's writings and the Word of God. His pithy questions at the end of each devotion help the reader focus on a single truth for the day. My favorite: "What would you pray for--and work for--if you had zero doubt in your heart?" Wow.
I received a copy of this book from Bob in exchange for my honest review. Honestly, I loved it. I'll bet my coffee you will too.
I was wrong.
Although I'm not a huge Shakespeare fan--oh, I already said that--The Bard and The Bible is the quintessential devotional: brimming with wisdom, sprinkled with humor, and spiced up with enough Shakespeare minutiae to help me compete with my husband the next time we play Trivial Pursuit.
Bob has created an entertaining yet spiritually nourishing marriage of quotes from Shakespeare's writings and the Word of God. His pithy questions at the end of each devotion help the reader focus on a single truth for the day. My favorite: "What would you pray for--and work for--if you had zero doubt in your heart?" Wow.
I received a copy of this book from Bob in exchange for my honest review. Honestly, I loved it. I'll bet my coffee you will too.
December 31, 2017
I won this devotional through GoodReads First Read program.
I have never been a big fan of Shakespeare or the King James Bible but I have to admit that I enjoyed this devotional over the year. Hostetler takes a line from a work of Shakespeare and then a Bible verse from the King James Bible which is comparable. Through this he brings out a lesson which you can apply to your day. I learned a lot about Shakespeare and was amazed that Shakespeare got a lot of his ideas from the Bible because the comparisons between the line from his works and the Bible verse are remarkable. Hostetler also throws in a nugget of information about Shakespeare at the end of the daily reading.
I have always struggled to read Shakespeare, and the King James Bible for that matter, but this devotional certainly helped me understand the points made. I am not going to run out and read all the works by Shakespeare now but I do have a deeper appreciation of the man and his works now.
I have never been a big fan of Shakespeare or the King James Bible but I have to admit that I enjoyed this devotional over the year. Hostetler takes a line from a work of Shakespeare and then a Bible verse from the King James Bible which is comparable. Through this he brings out a lesson which you can apply to your day. I learned a lot about Shakespeare and was amazed that Shakespeare got a lot of his ideas from the Bible because the comparisons between the line from his works and the Bible verse are remarkable. Hostetler also throws in a nugget of information about Shakespeare at the end of the daily reading.
I have always struggled to read Shakespeare, and the King James Bible for that matter, but this devotional certainly helped me understand the points made. I am not going to run out and read all the works by Shakespeare now but I do have a deeper appreciation of the man and his works now.
April 7, 2017
I must admit, I went into this book a bit skeptical that there could be much of a connection between Shakespeare and the King James Bible, aside from the thees and thous. I was going to need some convincing.
But once I got started, I found both the organization and the insights/connections fascinating. I found I was not only reading a devotional; I was also learning about Shakespeare's works through Bob's factoids at the end of each devotional.
You don't have to have read all of Shakespeare -- or even very much of Shakespeare -- to benefit from this devotional. I have only two devotional books where I've found myself reading ahead because each entry was so fascinating or inspiring that I wanted to keep reading. One is Voices From the Past: Puritan Devotional Readings. This is the other one.
But once I got started, I found both the organization and the insights/connections fascinating. I found I was not only reading a devotional; I was also learning about Shakespeare's works through Bob's factoids at the end of each devotional.
You don't have to have read all of Shakespeare -- or even very much of Shakespeare -- to benefit from this devotional. I have only two devotional books where I've found myself reading ahead because each entry was so fascinating or inspiring that I wanted to keep reading. One is Voices From the Past: Puritan Devotional Readings. This is the other one.
August 1, 2016
Wow, what a great concept here! I was amazed to find a devotional that weaves together Scripture with quotes from Shakespeare in such a meaningful and enlightening way. The author demonstrates creativity and scholasticism in one great work! I found it interesting to learn that Shakespeare quoted and alluded to the Scriptures over 1,000 times in his works, and Hostetler does a great job of highlighting many of those instances. I enjoyed the ties between Shakespeare's works and the Bible, and I especially enjoyed Hostetler's ability to apply these passages to everyday life. I felt encouraged, enlightened, and challenged by the many impactful applications that the author makes to life as we live it today. I highly recommend this work to all!
August 11, 2016
This book makes a great addition to my daily readings. In fact, I enjoy the quotes and historical anecdotes so much that I often read ahead and have dog-eared several pages where either the excerpt from Shakespeare or Bob’s application of it to scriptural teaching — sometimes both — has struck a particular chord. One that comes to mind is the January 10 entry quoting Henry VI, “Forbear to judge, for we are sinners all.” The context of the quote as Bob presents it should give pause to any reader, and Romans 14:10 is a perfect companion.
I intend to go back and mine some of this book for my own sermons and writing. (Don’t worry, Uncle Bob, you will be given proper credit. After all, it’s all I can afford to give you.)
I intend to go back and mine some of this book for my own sermons and writing. (Don’t worry, Uncle Bob, you will be given proper credit. After all, it’s all I can afford to give you.)
February 20, 2017
Filled with historical background and literary references, The Bard and the Bible is the perfect daily inspiration for any lit buff, but especially for Shakespeare fans. This devotional book contains 365 pages, highlighting a spiritual theme through a Shakespearean quotation and a Scriptural reference. With wit and wisdom (not unlike Shakespeare himself!), Hostetler weaves practical application for life and leadership in a creative and informative style. Although the approach was heavy on the literature end and lighter on the Biblical application, I liked this new approach to daily inspiration (but I am a literature nerd!) Great book. I received a free copy for reviewing this book.
August 11, 2016
I have had a love for Shakespeare since High School so when I received Bob's book, The Bard and the Bible, I was thrilled to read it. It did not disappoint. Bob has done a masterful job of mingling Shakespeare's works with that of scripture. I have appreciated this juxtaposition and the depth of understanding that it gives to both scripture and the words of Shakespeare. The contemporary cultural illustrations contribute to the reader's understanding. Each day's selection ends with thought provoking questions that are then followed by facts and figures about Shakespeare and/or the Bible. Not only an enjoyable read but an inspirational one as well.
August 2, 2016
Bob Hostetler has married two treasures—the Word of God and the works of Shakespeare—into a unique and fascinating union. In The Bard and the Bible, he demonstrates his exhaustive knowledge of Shakespeare’s plays and poetry, then trumps it by revealing his greater understanding and insight into Scripture. The resulting book is one that will help you gain a greater appreciation of both the Bard and the Bible.
March 19, 2024
I've always wanted to be a Shakespeare fan. But I somehow fall short, either tripping up in understanding the context or the narrative. And to be honest, I kind of feel the same way about the KJV; I've found other translations much more approachable. So I was a bit surprised at how much I've enjoyed The Bard and the Bible. You can easily tell the author does possess that love of Shakespeare (and the Bible!) that I aspire to and I've thoroughly enjoyed learning more about both. Bob Hostetler as woven the two together in an intriguing way--and the fun did you know tidbits are very entertaining! I also really appreciate the daily devotional format, which makes the reading experience quick yet still thoughtful,
January 1, 2018
This is a daily reader that I began last January 1 and finished on December 31. It Compares quotes from the Bard and the Bible, as its name suggests. It begins with his first plays and takes the reader to his last plays and along the way a few quotes from poems are tossed in.
Also, each page contains a little information that may come in useful for a game of trivia, such as who played what characters, Why do some plays have five acts? Answer given, Candles needed to be trimmed because they did not last for an entire play at night.
I certainly learned that I had read very little of Shakespeare.
If you like Daily Readers and have a literary interest, this is a good book to consider.
Also, each page contains a little information that may come in useful for a game of trivia, such as who played what characters, Why do some plays have five acts? Answer given, Candles needed to be trimmed because they did not last for an entire play at night.
I certainly learned that I had read very little of Shakespeare.
If you like Daily Readers and have a literary interest, this is a good book to consider.
December 7, 2020
I'm not quite through the end of this devotional, but I have read enough of it, and often enough in spots, to review it. I've used it here and there when tutoring high school juniors, reading selections from the particular plays we were studying. However, this year I decided to read it all the way through for myself. It is a rewarding read. Several of the quotes and their paired verses from the KJV made their way into my commonplace book for the brighter light they cast together. The historical/literary tidbits following each entry were an added treat. This devotional would make a great gift for Shakespeare nerds.
February 27, 2019
Today, my copy of THE BARD AND THE BIBLE: A SHAKESPEARE DEVOTIONAL by Bob Hostetler arrived. I’d recently met & talked to him at a writer’s conference & knew I wanted this book. Inside, I found the wit I remembered from our chat. Smiling, I read on, experiencing an inner “aww” as I moved past the humor into the heart of his message. It was as if I were looking at someone’s sweet baby in admiration. “Isn’t she lovely?” I can tell this book is about to become a favorite, combining my love of classics, humor, & deep spiritual truth. Who knew there were such riches at hand?
January 2, 2023
A wonderful combination of the Bard and the Bible. Sometimes he does a stretch too far, but for the most part, it is really fun, encouraging, and at times convicting and the quotes from Shakespeare are great.
December 31, 2018
Deepens your understanding of Shakespeare.
December 31, 2022
Such an original and delightful way of meditating on God's word while getting to learn more about the work of the greatest English writer. A phenomenal book.
October 8, 2016
Goodreads win
This was a surprising read. I found myself to really enjoy reading it. It is a book I can see myself reading again in the future. I loved how two different subjects were brought together. A great read.
This was a surprising read. I found myself to really enjoy reading it. It is a book I can see myself reading again in the future. I loved how two different subjects were brought together. A great read.
August 11, 2016
The Bard and the Bible is a wonderful and creative way to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. This new devotional works on a number of levels. One of the first and most obvious is the language. The King James Version of the Bible is still one of the most used and best-loved. It’s a natural to combine the insight of scripture to the insight of many of Shakespeare’s characters, and in fact, is clear that this version of the Bible influenced much of Shakespeare’s writing.
Each entry in this 365-day devotional follows a format that begins with a quote from one of the Bard’s plays (as well as sometimes from one of his sonnets or other poems), followed by a verse of scripture that aligns with the quote. Next comes the devotion text which gives background into the play and/or character from which the first quote is taken and its context. It segues into the Bible verse and how it not only relates to the Shakespeare quote, but how it relates to and is relevant to one’s daily life. The devotion ends with a thought-provoking question dealing with the issue at the heart of the devotion. Then comes what I consider to be a bonus; a short section of facts and trivia about Shakespeare himself, word trivia, modern incarnations of his plays, and more. A prayer as such is not included but the question at the end of each devotional entry leads the reader into reflection, self-examination, and prayer.
There is much to like about The Bard and the Bible. While still following the basic form of a devotional, Hostetler’s approach is fresh, unique, and interesting. He pulls the Bard’s quotes from each play in order of appearance so there is continuity within Shakespeare’s works rather than random quotes from random plays. It provides another layer that will delight fans of the Bard. A third layer within The Bard and the Bible is the depth of Biblical truth and its applications. Christians will be challenged to daily obedience to Jesus and to lovingly act out their faith by using the godly principles Hostetler brings to remembrance. This book also gives a slice of insight into Shakespeare’s faith and his great familiarity with scripture. It will resonate with any Christian who is a lover of literature and words. But more than that, The Bard and the Bible is a book that can be gifted to anyone interested in literature as a way to introduce them to God’s truth and love.
(I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.)
Each entry in this 365-day devotional follows a format that begins with a quote from one of the Bard’s plays (as well as sometimes from one of his sonnets or other poems), followed by a verse of scripture that aligns with the quote. Next comes the devotion text which gives background into the play and/or character from which the first quote is taken and its context. It segues into the Bible verse and how it not only relates to the Shakespeare quote, but how it relates to and is relevant to one’s daily life. The devotion ends with a thought-provoking question dealing with the issue at the heart of the devotion. Then comes what I consider to be a bonus; a short section of facts and trivia about Shakespeare himself, word trivia, modern incarnations of his plays, and more. A prayer as such is not included but the question at the end of each devotional entry leads the reader into reflection, self-examination, and prayer.
There is much to like about The Bard and the Bible. While still following the basic form of a devotional, Hostetler’s approach is fresh, unique, and interesting. He pulls the Bard’s quotes from each play in order of appearance so there is continuity within Shakespeare’s works rather than random quotes from random plays. It provides another layer that will delight fans of the Bard. A third layer within The Bard and the Bible is the depth of Biblical truth and its applications. Christians will be challenged to daily obedience to Jesus and to lovingly act out their faith by using the godly principles Hostetler brings to remembrance. This book also gives a slice of insight into Shakespeare’s faith and his great familiarity with scripture. It will resonate with any Christian who is a lover of literature and words. But more than that, The Bard and the Bible is a book that can be gifted to anyone interested in literature as a way to introduce them to God’s truth and love.
(I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.)
August 9, 2016
You know, this is just a really good devotional book. It's encouraging, entertaining at times, sometimes bewildering, and sometimes difficult.
I'm a great lover of devotional books, and find at least one new one every year. Some of my all-time favorites are "Imitation of Christ" by Thomas A Kempis, "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers, and, "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young, and "Uncommon" by Tony Dungy.
The Bard and the Bible devotional is unique to say the least. Author Bob Hostettler has done a marvelous job melding "the King's English" bible, with the same period writings of Shakespeare. While I say this is a really good devotional book (which it is), I just see the book sitting in a very small niche where commercial success will be limited. First, the King James Version has fallen in popularity in recent decades and has seen the advent of more "understandable" versions such as New International Version, New Living Translation, New King James, New American Standard, etc. Secondly, we live in the electronic age where you would be hard pressed to find someone to quote a line of Shakespeare, let alone do a comparative analysis to a King James Biblical passage.
This is why I'm having such a challenge on rating this book. I see the quality, I understand the intellect required to put such a book together. It had to be a labor of love by the author. I read several daily portions, and my enjoyment and edification was consistently inconsistent. As a matter of my own personal interest in the contents of the book, I would be hard pressed to see myself purchasing this volume. Again, it's not a shot at the author's work. It's a matter of individual taste. I'm not a Shakespeare fan. Never have been. Never will be. So I'm part of that audience. But, at the same time, I can't get past how good this book really is. For that reason, to lovers of literature, Shakespeare, and every thing King James I recommend this book with my previous opinions.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a timely and honest review. (don't know how more honest I could be here). There are no additional considerations or expectations on the reviewer, publisher or author. I have also posted this on Goodreads.com, Amazon.com, my blog: jonreviewsbooks1.wordpress.com, and also on Twitter.
I'm a great lover of devotional books, and find at least one new one every year. Some of my all-time favorites are "Imitation of Christ" by Thomas A Kempis, "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers, and, "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young, and "Uncommon" by Tony Dungy.
The Bard and the Bible devotional is unique to say the least. Author Bob Hostettler has done a marvelous job melding "the King's English" bible, with the same period writings of Shakespeare. While I say this is a really good devotional book (which it is), I just see the book sitting in a very small niche where commercial success will be limited. First, the King James Version has fallen in popularity in recent decades and has seen the advent of more "understandable" versions such as New International Version, New Living Translation, New King James, New American Standard, etc. Secondly, we live in the electronic age where you would be hard pressed to find someone to quote a line of Shakespeare, let alone do a comparative analysis to a King James Biblical passage.
This is why I'm having such a challenge on rating this book. I see the quality, I understand the intellect required to put such a book together. It had to be a labor of love by the author. I read several daily portions, and my enjoyment and edification was consistently inconsistent. As a matter of my own personal interest in the contents of the book, I would be hard pressed to see myself purchasing this volume. Again, it's not a shot at the author's work. It's a matter of individual taste. I'm not a Shakespeare fan. Never have been. Never will be. So I'm part of that audience. But, at the same time, I can't get past how good this book really is. For that reason, to lovers of literature, Shakespeare, and every thing King James I recommend this book with my previous opinions.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a timely and honest review. (don't know how more honest I could be here). There are no additional considerations or expectations on the reviewer, publisher or author. I have also posted this on Goodreads.com, Amazon.com, my blog: jonreviewsbooks1.wordpress.com, and also on Twitter.
August 29, 2016
The Bard and the Bible is a delightful devotional! Bob Hostetler has done a masterful job allowing the writings of Shakespeare to be in conversation with passages from the King James Bible. Toss in his humor and I kept thinking with each page, “Wow, I wish he had taught me Shakespeare back in high school!” His summaries make the passages come alive so any reader no matter how limited their knowledge of either will be able to understand and enjoy both.
Little morsels of historical and modern tidbits and trivia tease the taste buds. How fun to learn of hairstyles in the day of Shakespeare and how often dogs and cats appeared in his writings! I couldn't help but share these with my young children, knowing that someday when they are studying Shakespeare they may remember one of these random, fun facts. I also enjoyed learning how many modern words and phrases, like “hurried” and “a dish fit for the gods,” have their roots in Shakespearean plays.
My least favorite part of the devotional was the reflection question. The overall tone of these (there were exceptions) seemed to be “try harder to be or do better.” Often the question begins with, “How can you make, do, practice, speak...” For instance on March 16th, “How can you live, work and play with greater energy?” My personality bent plays right into reforming myself with doing and being better, and in my experience, it may bring greater behavior modification (and guilt), but little transformation of heart (which brings true freedom). However, I know this is a common approach in many Christian devotionals. I wondered if there might have been a different way of inviting the reader into the conversation with Shakespeare and KJ. In lieu of it, I entered into a kind of Lectio Divina with the reading for each day.
All in all, a very enjoyable devotional that I will certainly recommend to my Shakespeare-loving friends (and anyone looking for a unique way to converse with Scripture)!
I received a free copy in exchange for my honest and fair review.
Little morsels of historical and modern tidbits and trivia tease the taste buds. How fun to learn of hairstyles in the day of Shakespeare and how often dogs and cats appeared in his writings! I couldn't help but share these with my young children, knowing that someday when they are studying Shakespeare they may remember one of these random, fun facts. I also enjoyed learning how many modern words and phrases, like “hurried” and “a dish fit for the gods,” have their roots in Shakespearean plays.
My least favorite part of the devotional was the reflection question. The overall tone of these (there were exceptions) seemed to be “try harder to be or do better.” Often the question begins with, “How can you make, do, practice, speak...” For instance on March 16th, “How can you live, work and play with greater energy?” My personality bent plays right into reforming myself with doing and being better, and in my experience, it may bring greater behavior modification (and guilt), but little transformation of heart (which brings true freedom). However, I know this is a common approach in many Christian devotionals. I wondered if there might have been a different way of inviting the reader into the conversation with Shakespeare and KJ. In lieu of it, I entered into a kind of Lectio Divina with the reading for each day.
All in all, a very enjoyable devotional that I will certainly recommend to my Shakespeare-loving friends (and anyone looking for a unique way to converse with Scripture)!
I received a free copy in exchange for my honest and fair review.
August 15, 2016
This devotion draws from the author's passion of both the King James translation of the Bible and William Shakespeare's works. Written in just a way to help the reader learn more of the Bible and Shakespeare concurrently, the audience will find this devotion separated by the calendar year dates, beginning with January 1. Each devotion starts with a title, a quote from one of Shakespeare's works, and a Bible verse that the author has identified as running parallel with the passage from Shakespeare. The "devotional" part of the daily reading educates the reader on Shakespeare, with just a tidbit each day, making each day's reading about a page long. The reading concludes with questions and facts aimed to enhance the daily portion.
The author's goal in this is to show the similarities between the Bard and the Bible, hence the title of this work, and he succeeds in this endeavor. Each devotion educates more on the Bard in an effort to promote Shakespearean literacy and appreciation in his audience. The author's writing is not in iambic pentameter, so there are no worries about readability - the book itself is quite easy to understand. This book is best described as a cross between a Bible devotion and a mini literature course, with the content being driven on being devoted more to the Bard and the Bible.
The thematic usage of Shakespeare holds great promise for the work, but the author does lean a little too much on promoting Shakespeare over Scripture, making this less a Bible devotional and more a William Devotional, with scant references to Scripture throughout. Those who enjoy Shakespeare and history will love this work, but readers do well to remember this book is not a true Bible devotion.
Disclosure: I have received a reviewer copy and/or payment in exchange for an honest review of the product mentioned in this post.
The author's goal in this is to show the similarities between the Bard and the Bible, hence the title of this work, and he succeeds in this endeavor. Each devotion educates more on the Bard in an effort to promote Shakespearean literacy and appreciation in his audience. The author's writing is not in iambic pentameter, so there are no worries about readability - the book itself is quite easy to understand. This book is best described as a cross between a Bible devotion and a mini literature course, with the content being driven on being devoted more to the Bard and the Bible.
The thematic usage of Shakespeare holds great promise for the work, but the author does lean a little too much on promoting Shakespeare over Scripture, making this less a Bible devotional and more a William Devotional, with scant references to Scripture throughout. Those who enjoy Shakespeare and history will love this work, but readers do well to remember this book is not a true Bible devotion.
Disclosure: I have received a reviewer copy and/or payment in exchange for an honest review of the product mentioned in this post.
July 24, 2016
I was surprised a little by how much I enjoyed this book. While the author is my brother we all know that often "a prophet is without honor in his own country," which means sometimes those closest to us can be our harshest critics. And I try to be honest and impartial in my ratings and reviews, so if anything I err on the side of caution in my assessments.
Obviously the rating I've given is high. I was not sure what to expect when I started this book, but I was pleasantly surprised. Comparing the King James Version of the Bible with Shakespeare's writings could have been a recipe for boredom and obscure language. Yet changes in English since both were published (about 13 years apart, the King James Version in 1610 and Shakespeare's first folio in 1623) were explained, and even "translated," sometimes into humorous modern English.
My wife and I are enjoying using this in our daily devotions. She enjoys the stories and humor and application of biblical truths, while I enjoy the history, insight into language, and spiritual concepts.
Each day's reading includes a line from a Shakespeare play or sonnet, a verse from the bible using a similar thought, and a short (one page) devotional. Often the devotional explains the context of the play, sometimes the context of the bible verse. Each day's reading concludes with an interesting factoid related to the theme of the book.
I have had few devotional books that had me eager to get to the day's reading to find out "what's next." This is one, and for that reason alone I heartily recommend the book. A book that informs, inspires, and engages is not easy to find. This one did for me.
A good read.
Obviously the rating I've given is high. I was not sure what to expect when I started this book, but I was pleasantly surprised. Comparing the King James Version of the Bible with Shakespeare's writings could have been a recipe for boredom and obscure language. Yet changes in English since both were published (about 13 years apart, the King James Version in 1610 and Shakespeare's first folio in 1623) were explained, and even "translated," sometimes into humorous modern English.
My wife and I are enjoying using this in our daily devotions. She enjoys the stories and humor and application of biblical truths, while I enjoy the history, insight into language, and spiritual concepts.
Each day's reading includes a line from a Shakespeare play or sonnet, a verse from the bible using a similar thought, and a short (one page) devotional. Often the devotional explains the context of the play, sometimes the context of the bible verse. Each day's reading concludes with an interesting factoid related to the theme of the book.
I have had few devotional books that had me eager to get to the day's reading to find out "what's next." This is one, and for that reason alone I heartily recommend the book. A book that informs, inspires, and engages is not easy to find. This one did for me.
A good read.
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