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Alabaster: What is Most Precious is Also Most Fragile
Maryam is stuck in an abusive marriage, living with her in-laws, in a conservative, toxically religious Middle Eastern setting. A few years back, her father was given a jar of priceless perfume by a dying leper and it seemed as if their fortunes would improve, but then Maryam’s father contracted leprosy and was exiled by the village. Maryam and her brother, Eleazar, and sister, Marta, experience the shame and ostracism this brings. The precious jar that was meant to bring them freedom, but it only seems to have brought destruction. But rumours abound concerning a new doctor; perhaps hope is on the horizon…
208 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2016
7 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Chris Aslan
6 books37 followersChris Aslan was born in Turkey (hence the name Aslan) and spent his childhood there and in war-torn Beirut. After school, Chris spent two years at sea before studying Media and journalism at Leicester University. He then moved to Khiva, a desert oasis in Uzbekistan, establishing a UNESCO workshop reviving fifteenth century carpet designs and embroideries, and becoming the largest non-government employer in town. He was expelled as part of an anti-Western purge, and took a year in Cambridge to write A Carpet Ride to Khiva. Chris then spent three years in the Pamirs mountains of Tajikistan, training yak herders to comb their yaks for their cashmere-like down. Next came a couple of years in Kyrgyzstan living in the world’s largest natural walnut forest and establishing a wood-carving workshop. Since then, Chris has studied and rowed at Oxford, lectures internationally, and regularly returns to Central Asia, having left a large chunk of his heart there. He's based in North Cyprus in a mountainous village overlooking the sea, and is overrun with cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 7, 2017
Don’t let the look of this book fool you!
It is short. It has only 208 pages. It’s dimensions are also not big.
But the story in it is.
It is so rare for me to finish a book and wonder “How come so many things happened in such a short book?”, but it happened with this novel.
I finished this book so satisfied with what I’ve read, because I got so much from those pages, learned things I didn’t know before and remembered things I forgot.
Alabaster talks the story about Maryam. Her life is not easy. Very young she married into a family that does not appreciate her. Her husband is violent and the one person she cares the most for, her father, is banished from the town she lives in.
The reason: leprosy.
The story takes place in time when Jesus walked among peole. It is told in first person, from Maryam’s POV.
First of all, I think it should be stressed out that this is a piece of christian fiction.
Some people are not comfortable with reading that genre, and I complitely understand it.
It is also shelved as woman’s fiction, but in my opinion, this book reads as young adult.
Although Maryam is married and her life is not an easy one, she is very, very young. At the begginging of the story she is only 15 years old.
Her voice and the way she narrates the story gives an atmosphere similar to the one reader has while reading ya.
I read in one review that the reader felt like the author pushes christian faith to readers, but I’d take that with grand of salt.
I mean, this is a piece of christian fiction and Jesus is one of characters in the story (he shows up in last third of the book), but his role in this story is the one of doctor who can cure leprusy.
Alabaster talks more about hard lives of women during that era, as well as how big of a problem one disease caused not only to families, but to whole society at time.
In his writing, Aslan does not shy away.
Women were abused, and he shows it. There are physical abuse as well as sexual insults described in this book. There is no sugarcoating, but the writer knows where there’s no need for more words, because the reader’s imagination does the rest of the job.
This is an emotional story and one can not help but care.
My heart ached sometimes, because of how hard Maryam’s life was.
If you’re christian, you will probably recognize main characters (Maryam, her sister and brother) from the Bible. It took me some time to realize who they were, because their names were changed (the author made them sound more modern, from what I understand).
This was my first 5 stars worth read of this year.
While I was reading, I wondered “How come more people do not talk about this book?”, but then it came to me.
This is christian fiction, and one of it’s cons is that it is not for everybody, nor do all people want to try that genre, christians or not.
Anyway, I am glad I am one of readers who gave this book a chance, because the time I spent on this book was so worth it.
It is short. It has only 208 pages. It’s dimensions are also not big.
But the story in it is.
It is so rare for me to finish a book and wonder “How come so many things happened in such a short book?”, but it happened with this novel.
I finished this book so satisfied with what I’ve read, because I got so much from those pages, learned things I didn’t know before and remembered things I forgot.
Alabaster talks the story about Maryam. Her life is not easy. Very young she married into a family that does not appreciate her. Her husband is violent and the one person she cares the most for, her father, is banished from the town she lives in.
The reason: leprosy.
The story takes place in time when Jesus walked among peole. It is told in first person, from Maryam’s POV.
First of all, I think it should be stressed out that this is a piece of christian fiction.
Some people are not comfortable with reading that genre, and I complitely understand it.
It is also shelved as woman’s fiction, but in my opinion, this book reads as young adult.
Although Maryam is married and her life is not an easy one, she is very, very young. At the begginging of the story she is only 15 years old.
Her voice and the way she narrates the story gives an atmosphere similar to the one reader has while reading ya.
I read in one review that the reader felt like the author pushes christian faith to readers, but I’d take that with grand of salt.
I mean, this is a piece of christian fiction and Jesus is one of characters in the story (he shows up in last third of the book), but his role in this story is the one of doctor who can cure leprusy.
Alabaster talks more about hard lives of women during that era, as well as how big of a problem one disease caused not only to families, but to whole society at time.
In his writing, Aslan does not shy away.
Women were abused, and he shows it. There are physical abuse as well as sexual insults described in this book. There is no sugarcoating, but the writer knows where there’s no need for more words, because the reader’s imagination does the rest of the job.
This is an emotional story and one can not help but care.
My heart ached sometimes, because of how hard Maryam’s life was.
If you’re christian, you will probably recognize main characters (Maryam, her sister and brother) from the Bible. It took me some time to realize who they were, because their names were changed (the author made them sound more modern, from what I understand).
This was my first 5 stars worth read of this year.
While I was reading, I wondered “How come more people do not talk about this book?”, but then it came to me.
This is christian fiction, and one of it’s cons is that it is not for everybody, nor do all people want to try that genre, christians or not.
Anyway, I am glad I am one of readers who gave this book a chance, because the time I spent on this book was so worth it.
May 6, 2019
A story set in an unidentified, traditional and religious-dominated middle-Eastern village at an unidentified time. The book opens with Miriam trapped in a marriage with an abusive husband, and uncaring mother-in-law and with a sister-in-law who knows a secret which could rip both Miriam and the sister’s own family apart. Miriam’s status in the village is low as is that of her sister Marta – their father had to leave the village for a leper colony after contracting the disease and as his condition deteriorated he has stopped his sporadic visits to the village to collect alms and balms (albeit attempting to travel North to a Doctor who is rumoured to be able to cure the disease). Marta is living on her own after Miriam’s sudden marriage coincided with their brother Eleazer (who becomes increasingly radicalised by the firebrand and conservative village religious leader) fleeing the village to join one of the various militant religious and nationalist groups fighting against the heathen Western forces which occupy the land. One of the few things that gives Miriam any strength is a hidden family treasure – a beautiful sealed alabaster jar which she believes is filled with expensive spices.
This is a book better enjoyed on its own terms so that the clever identification with actual historical events emerges over time – and the portrayal of life and possible back stories has its full force.
I found this a moving and impressive book due to a strong personal resonance.
This is a book better enjoyed on its own terms so that the clever identification with actual historical events emerges over time – and the portrayal of life and possible back stories has its full force.
I found this a moving and impressive book due to a strong personal resonance.
October 17, 2016
Let's see... judging by the blurbs surrounding the book and the beginning it has, I kind of expected it to be about women fighting to free themselves from an oppressive patriarchy and religion. It was a read I was enjoying until you are presented with the figure of God and prophets and then it went downhill for me, because I am not a religious person (although I have studied different religions, and enjoyed doing so) and somewhat along the line this book kind of turned to religious propaganda for me.
The style of writting is impecable, though, and you are easily drawn to the main character and the telling of the book.
The style of writting is impecable, though, and you are easily drawn to the main character and the telling of the book.
November 30, 2022
wow!
Excellent writing. Excellent story with so many details of what daily life could have been like. I will be following this author's writing with interest.
Please keep writing!
Excellent writing. Excellent story with so many details of what daily life could have been like. I will be following this author's writing with interest.
Please keep writing!
October 15, 2016
"You see, there is something more contagious than leprosy that people fear catching through contact with the sufferer, and that's misfortune."
Alabaster in the title refers to the perfume jar that is given to Maryam's father, one that should have boded well for her family's future. Instead, her father contacts leprosy and is shunned as well as exiles from his village. Early on, it is understood how life went for women in bygone times in the middle east. They mustn't shame their family and especially their husband. Abuse isn't just expected but some women get seem downright gleeful when a woman is beaten for her behavior, more often than not something unintended. The rules are severe, the women are loaded with chores and restrictions and men are judge and jury in the household and outside of it. The shame Maryam and each member of her family suffers because of a disease their father contacted is heartbreaking. The sisters are stained by everything that happens to them, but they will find a way out of a dismal future. A story of abuse, loss, but one too of hope. Misfortune is a disease itself, as if by shunning families that suffer you can dodge the cruelty of fate yourself. It was easier to think people deserve it, certainly they must have done something to suffer so, than to feel compassion or help.
As the reader lives alongside Maryam, the history of how those with leprosy depended on each other when pushed out of their homes changed the attitudes about men and women and what was proper and not. What good are such restrictions in the face of death when you must hold each other up? There is a mysterious doctor who is rumored to cure the sick, the dying. Can her father make it to this blessed doctor in time? What will he have to do with Maryam? Early on their brother begins to become overbearing, with the same dismissive attitude towards women. Despite abandonment by their brother in the face of shame, the sisters will find their strength. Strange in a culture where men are in charge, the two women are left on their own to face the ostracism and fight for survival. With her sister's skill and her own cleverness, the two will strive to survive out from under the rule of bad men.
The story is historical fiction, but the voiceless women are still true in modern times. Thinking about keeping women in line, placing the burden of shame for a whole family on females is horrifying. When Maryam is shunned later these line say so much. "This shunning should bother me, but I prefer it to the constant fear I lived under with Ishmael. It was like holding my breath all the time and now I've let it out and can take fresh air into my lungs." Abuse in any culture suffocates, more so in places where you can be stoned to death for transgressions committed against you. There was a tenderness though too that Maryam's father had for both she and her sister, and too he knows his daughter's are more upstanding than his son. This ideal that fathers are incapable of love in such cultures is absurd. It is easy to blame the culture, the arrogance that we are advanced but really a woman can be beat down even in countries with every freedom. There is a sisterhood that is global, and suffering anywhere should touch us all.
Too, that neighbors and friends keep such severe watch over each other's actions is why bad things happen. Some people feel they are the eye of God, at ready to point out another's failings and want punishment, but too are those who love and help one another, even at great risk. This novel is for anyone that enjoys historical fiction, it is rich with characters and atmospheric. Leprosy isn't something I think about beyond seeing the occasional horror story on medical shows, but there was a time it was on everyone's minds, fear of contagion, family members ripped away... that alone made the story heavy with sorrow.
Publication Date: November 18, 2o16
Lion Fiction
visit my blog: https://bookstalkerblog.wordpress.com/
Alabaster in the title refers to the perfume jar that is given to Maryam's father, one that should have boded well for her family's future. Instead, her father contacts leprosy and is shunned as well as exiles from his village. Early on, it is understood how life went for women in bygone times in the middle east. They mustn't shame their family and especially their husband. Abuse isn't just expected but some women get seem downright gleeful when a woman is beaten for her behavior, more often than not something unintended. The rules are severe, the women are loaded with chores and restrictions and men are judge and jury in the household and outside of it. The shame Maryam and each member of her family suffers because of a disease their father contacted is heartbreaking. The sisters are stained by everything that happens to them, but they will find a way out of a dismal future. A story of abuse, loss, but one too of hope. Misfortune is a disease itself, as if by shunning families that suffer you can dodge the cruelty of fate yourself. It was easier to think people deserve it, certainly they must have done something to suffer so, than to feel compassion or help.
As the reader lives alongside Maryam, the history of how those with leprosy depended on each other when pushed out of their homes changed the attitudes about men and women and what was proper and not. What good are such restrictions in the face of death when you must hold each other up? There is a mysterious doctor who is rumored to cure the sick, the dying. Can her father make it to this blessed doctor in time? What will he have to do with Maryam? Early on their brother begins to become overbearing, with the same dismissive attitude towards women. Despite abandonment by their brother in the face of shame, the sisters will find their strength. Strange in a culture where men are in charge, the two women are left on their own to face the ostracism and fight for survival. With her sister's skill and her own cleverness, the two will strive to survive out from under the rule of bad men.
The story is historical fiction, but the voiceless women are still true in modern times. Thinking about keeping women in line, placing the burden of shame for a whole family on females is horrifying. When Maryam is shunned later these line say so much. "This shunning should bother me, but I prefer it to the constant fear I lived under with Ishmael. It was like holding my breath all the time and now I've let it out and can take fresh air into my lungs." Abuse in any culture suffocates, more so in places where you can be stoned to death for transgressions committed against you. There was a tenderness though too that Maryam's father had for both she and her sister, and too he knows his daughter's are more upstanding than his son. This ideal that fathers are incapable of love in such cultures is absurd. It is easy to blame the culture, the arrogance that we are advanced but really a woman can be beat down even in countries with every freedom. There is a sisterhood that is global, and suffering anywhere should touch us all.
Too, that neighbors and friends keep such severe watch over each other's actions is why bad things happen. Some people feel they are the eye of God, at ready to point out another's failings and want punishment, but too are those who love and help one another, even at great risk. This novel is for anyone that enjoys historical fiction, it is rich with characters and atmospheric. Leprosy isn't something I think about beyond seeing the occasional horror story on medical shows, but there was a time it was on everyone's minds, fear of contagion, family members ripped away... that alone made the story heavy with sorrow.
Publication Date: November 18, 2o16
Lion Fiction
visit my blog: https://bookstalkerblog.wordpress.com/
February 12, 2017
The short review: "Alabaster" is a moving, well written (cleverly, even), and beautiful portrait of a young girl's struggle in a Middle Eastern village.
Disclosure: The author, Chris, was a friend in the early '90's (and still is on Facebook) and I thoroughly enjoyed his previous book, which was memoir rather than fiction. These were the reasons I picked this book up and I had little idea what Alabaster was about. (I didn't read anything past the blurb before picking it up.) In fact, I expected it to be set in Central Asia or the Middle East - where I know Chris has extensive first hand experience - and it wasn't until half way through that I realised what it was about.
This is part of the cleverness and charm of his writing style. The protagonist, a peasant teenager, lives in an unnamed village not far from an unnamed capital in an unnamed country experiencing 'Western' occupation and a rebel insurgency. She is part of a loving family and surrounded by a village full of kind-hearted people, gossips, and religious fanatics. While it is clearly not set in my culture, it deals with themes that are relevant to it.
(The remainder of this review includes plot spoilers.)
We walk through conservative village life with a girl who suffers tragedy, abuse, and ostracism. It's described with economy but Chris's first hand knowledge of the culture and the brings it all to life. All I can say is that I was moved by Chris's treatment of these topics. There's a rape scene, a subject requiring delicacy, which I thought he handled well.
Ultimately it's a story of redemption. It's this latter, overtly religious, theme that has put off some other reviewers. In truth, the transition does jar a little (even once I was expecting it), but then that is probably appropriate given the characters that enter the story (Jesus).
It's a very long time since I've read any Bible-based fiction - I'm more a theology and sci-fi reader - and this was different to anything else I've read. I didn't even realise it was a Bible story until half way through. Kudos to the the author. I enjoyed the book and recommend it.
Disclosure: The author, Chris, was a friend in the early '90's (and still is on Facebook) and I thoroughly enjoyed his previous book, which was memoir rather than fiction. These were the reasons I picked this book up and I had little idea what Alabaster was about. (I didn't read anything past the blurb before picking it up.) In fact, I expected it to be set in Central Asia or the Middle East - where I know Chris has extensive first hand experience - and it wasn't until half way through that I realised what it was about.
This is part of the cleverness and charm of his writing style. The protagonist, a peasant teenager, lives in an unnamed village not far from an unnamed capital in an unnamed country experiencing 'Western' occupation and a rebel insurgency. She is part of a loving family and surrounded by a village full of kind-hearted people, gossips, and religious fanatics. While it is clearly not set in my culture, it deals with themes that are relevant to it.
(The remainder of this review includes plot spoilers.)
We walk through conservative village life with a girl who suffers tragedy, abuse, and ostracism. It's described with economy but Chris's first hand knowledge of the culture and the brings it all to life. All I can say is that I was moved by Chris's treatment of these topics. There's a rape scene, a subject requiring delicacy, which I thought he handled well.
Ultimately it's a story of redemption. It's this latter, overtly religious, theme that has put off some other reviewers. In truth, the transition does jar a little (even once I was expecting it), but then that is probably appropriate given the characters that enter the story (Jesus).
It's a very long time since I've read any Bible-based fiction - I'm more a theology and sci-fi reader - and this was different to anything else I've read. I didn't even realise it was a Bible story until half way through. Kudos to the the author. I enjoyed the book and recommend it.
April 28, 2017
Alabaster is a story that takes us on a journey with a young woman in a Biblical Middle Eastern village. As I read this I was very thankful that I did not live in that time or place. There were laws on top of laws, and when men broke the laws, the women were mostly the ones who had to pay for it. This story was not a light-hearted read, it dealt with gossip, cruelty, rape, and abuse.
This story shows just how precious and fragile life is. I found the in-depth rules and regulations concerning leprosy interesting and how the lepers became outcasts from the rest of society. Not only the lepers but their families also were prejudiced against and treated with shame. There is hope however, that shines through this story. That hope is the Teacher and when this family meets Him, He changes everything for them. He turns the very strict religious laws upside down and shows compassion and healing even to the unclean- the lepers and their families who have survived. I did not realize till much later what Bible story this was actually inspired by. A thought-provoking read on how very different God sees us.
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and the views and opinions expressed are my own.
This story shows just how precious and fragile life is. I found the in-depth rules and regulations concerning leprosy interesting and how the lepers became outcasts from the rest of society. Not only the lepers but their families also were prejudiced against and treated with shame. There is hope however, that shines through this story. That hope is the Teacher and when this family meets Him, He changes everything for them. He turns the very strict religious laws upside down and shows compassion and healing even to the unclean- the lepers and their families who have survived. I did not realize till much later what Bible story this was actually inspired by. A thought-provoking read on how very different God sees us.
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and the views and opinions expressed are my own.
November 21, 2018
Beautifully written story, the characters felt so real that you could actually feel yourself present in the story and in another world. I definitely recommend this book - it's interesting and can take you through different times, emotions and places.
March 30, 2017
I picked this book up in my parent's local library on their 'new in' shelf. The cover was pretty, and the back of the book intrigued me.
I rather wish I hadn't bothered.
As other reviews have mentioned, the first two thirds of this book is an interesting story about a woman and her sister living in a village under a rather oppressive system of patriarchy and fundamentalist teachings. It is an interesting take on value, honour and reputation, and I found myself intrigued. However, the last third of the book veers suddenly into biblical retelling and lost me completely.
I feel that if you have to trick people into reading a book by hiding its religious/Christian themes...you're not going to find the audience you're looking for. While undoubtedly well-written, this book didn't interest me and I found myself annoyed that I was 'tricked' into reading a religious fable. Had the book been upfront about that, I likely would have found the end section far less disappointing.
I'm left far more curious about the alabaster jar, and what Mariam did with the rest of her life, and with no desire to read further about 'Marta' and 'Eleazar' - or Martha, and Lazarus, to give them their biblical names.
I rather wish I hadn't bothered.
As other reviews have mentioned, the first two thirds of this book is an interesting story about a woman and her sister living in a village under a rather oppressive system of patriarchy and fundamentalist teachings. It is an interesting take on value, honour and reputation, and I found myself intrigued. However, the last third of the book veers suddenly into biblical retelling and lost me completely.
I feel that if you have to trick people into reading a book by hiding its religious/Christian themes...you're not going to find the audience you're looking for. While undoubtedly well-written, this book didn't interest me and I found myself annoyed that I was 'tricked' into reading a religious fable. Had the book been upfront about that, I likely would have found the end section far less disappointing.
I'm left far more curious about the alabaster jar, and what Mariam did with the rest of her life, and with no desire to read further about 'Marta' and 'Eleazar' - or Martha, and Lazarus, to give them their biblical names.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2023
Superbly written retelling of Martha and Mary.
TW: rape, death
TW: rape, death
April 24, 2017
Have you ever wondered about the background of sisters Mary and Martha? What events and struggles may have shaped their personalities? Chris Aslan has created a fascinating back story for these sisters (Marta and Mariam in his retelling) and their brother, Eliazar. Alabaster immerses the reader in the life, culture and some of the struggles of women in Bible times.
In Aslan's book, sisters Marta and Mariam have grown up without their mother, having only the woven rugs she created to remember her by. Managing the household included weaving and selling rugs as well as taking care of the family's olive grove. Until the fateful day when their father must choose between compassion and self-preservation. The decision he makes alters the course of their future.
Meanwhile, their brother Eliazar does little to offer any practical help. Immersed in his studies and all too quick to point out his sister's failures to uphold every last part of the law, a wedge begins to grow between the family. Eliazar is soon drawn away from home leaving his sisters without male protection. As a result, Mariam falls prey to the unwanted advances of a young man in her community.
The despair, poverty and lack of options for young women of the time is truly heart-breaking. In the midst of their struggles, the sisters meet the gentle, wise and loving teacher, Jesus. A man so unlike any other they have met. Marta and Mariam learn about a heavenly Father's love for them and that changes everything.
Alabaster offers a fresh perspective on the ministry of Jesus and his impact on those around him, I highly recommend this deeply moving book! As a word of caution, I would suggest an adult audience due to references to marital relations, domestic abuse, and violent forms of punishment for law breakers (accurate for the time period, but disturbing nonetheless).
Disclaimer: I received a copy of Alabaster from Kregel Publications for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
In Aslan's book, sisters Marta and Mariam have grown up without their mother, having only the woven rugs she created to remember her by. Managing the household included weaving and selling rugs as well as taking care of the family's olive grove. Until the fateful day when their father must choose between compassion and self-preservation. The decision he makes alters the course of their future.
Meanwhile, their brother Eliazar does little to offer any practical help. Immersed in his studies and all too quick to point out his sister's failures to uphold every last part of the law, a wedge begins to grow between the family. Eliazar is soon drawn away from home leaving his sisters without male protection. As a result, Mariam falls prey to the unwanted advances of a young man in her community.
The despair, poverty and lack of options for young women of the time is truly heart-breaking. In the midst of their struggles, the sisters meet the gentle, wise and loving teacher, Jesus. A man so unlike any other they have met. Marta and Mariam learn about a heavenly Father's love for them and that changes everything.
Alabaster offers a fresh perspective on the ministry of Jesus and his impact on those around him, I highly recommend this deeply moving book! As a word of caution, I would suggest an adult audience due to references to marital relations, domestic abuse, and violent forms of punishment for law breakers (accurate for the time period, but disturbing nonetheless).
Disclaimer: I received a copy of Alabaster from Kregel Publications for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
December 18, 2016
I'm deeply moved by Alabaster by Chris Aslan.
The first-half of the book focuses on the lives of women (following the Laws) in 1 A.D. It was engaging to read and visualize how women's life had been in those days. I won't be commenting on the religious aspects of the book after 50% because I knew the scriptures. It did had me tearing up on instances.
I have studied multiple religions and found Alabaster very engaging. To know how the society was then and how it is now - isn't much different. Chris Aslan's imagination did feed a part of my eager soul because time and again I'd wondered about the personal lives of those who were around that time and watching the scene unfold through their eyes - the eyes of a spectator. This sure was beautifully portrayed and kept me turning one page over another.
There is just one question in my mind - how would readers, who don't know The Holy Bible perceive this book?
The first-half of the book focuses on the lives of women (following the Laws) in 1 A.D. It was engaging to read and visualize how women's life had been in those days. I won't be commenting on the religious aspects of the book after 50% because I knew the scriptures. It did had me tearing up on instances.
I have studied multiple religions and found Alabaster very engaging. To know how the society was then and how it is now - isn't much different. Chris Aslan's imagination did feed a part of my eager soul because time and again I'd wondered about the personal lives of those who were around that time and watching the scene unfold through their eyes - the eyes of a spectator. This sure was beautifully portrayed and kept me turning one page over another.
There is just one question in my mind - how would readers, who don't know The Holy Bible perceive this book?
November 9, 2022
I’ve just finished ‘Alabaster’ and loved every page. The backstory works as such a convincing portrait of the challenges women faced which gets your reader to think in new ways about what life and society may have been like - captured so well by the religiosity of Halfai and the horror of the stoning scene. I really cared about the characters and the fate of Miri after her father tragically dies and that unhappy relationship with Ishmael. As the prospect of meeting the doctor/teacher looms it becomes so exciting and the portal of the interactions with him are so beautifully crafted. And as for the world building I feel like I’ve been transported to another world - from the the river, to the mint tea, the olive harvest, the feast, the upper room - which are all so vivid and real. Thanks so much for writing this book Chris - I loved reading it. It’s a triumph for the genre of historical fiction set in biblical times.
April 29, 2017
This book will open your eyes to what life was like for those who suffered with leprosy and give you hope for the healing only Jesus can bring.
I have read the Bible several times. I read about the lepers and didn’t think too much of it. I didn’t think about the devastation that it brought to families or how families were torn apart because of the sickness. This book painted a picture that I will not soon forget.
I was immediately concerned for Maryam and the life she was apart of. I wanted a way of escape for her and could only hope it would happen somehow.
The author did a great time weaving the past with the present and making it come together in the end.
If you enjoy Biblical fiction I am sure you would like this book very much. I highly recommend it.
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I have read the Bible several times. I read about the lepers and didn’t think too much of it. I didn’t think about the devastation that it brought to families or how families were torn apart because of the sickness. This book painted a picture that I will not soon forget.
I was immediately concerned for Maryam and the life she was apart of. I wanted a way of escape for her and could only hope it would happen somehow.
The author did a great time weaving the past with the present and making it come together in the end.
If you enjoy Biblical fiction I am sure you would like this book very much. I highly recommend it.
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
March 23, 2018
It took some time to get into the story. But after a while the writing took me along in the story of Miri and Marta. Halfway I suddenly realised what the story is about and I was even more enthusiast. Loved how the writer made this unique story.
September 25, 2022
Meine Meinung
Geschichte
Vorweg ist zu sagen, dass diese Geschichte auf einer biblischen Geschichte basiert und auch viel mit Glauben zu tun hat. Ich persönlich bin neutral auf diesem Gebiet und wollte mich von der Geschichte überraschen lassen, ohne Vorurteile.
So viel mir der Anfang auch sehr leicht. Zunächst schwankt die Geschichte zwischen Gegenwart und Vergangenheit der Protagonistin. Die Kapitelanfänge sind jeweils aus der Gegenwart, doch vergas ich das oft, da der Zeitenwechsel nicht deutlich erkennbar war.
Die Lebensweisen und vor allem Glaubensmuster von damals - und teilweise noch heute - konnten mich immer wieder erstaunen. Zu lesen, was alles als unrein gilt und das die Leute tatsächlich danach leben, ist für meine deutschen Verhältnisse erstaunenswert.
Die Kapitel sind vielfältig und obwohl das Leben in dem Dorf sehr simpel ist, erlebt man immer wieder Abenteuer durch erschreckende Wahrheiten. Durch Schicksale, die oftmals gar nicht so selten vorkommen. Dadurch konnte das Buch mich fesseln und ich las es mit wenigen Pausen aus.
Als dann der Wunderdoktor gegen Ende eingebunden wurde, erhielt die Geschichte ihren letzten Schliff. Der Glauben rückte enorm in den Vordergrund, doch auch die Geschehnisse spitzten sich zu und brachten mir viel Lesefreude.
Einzig und allein die Emotionen der Protagonistin gegenüber des Vaters haben mir letzten Endes etwas gefehlt.
Charaktere
Alleine in der Familie der Protagonistin Maryam gab es viele unterschiedliche Charaktere. Jede Kleinigkeit beeinflusste die Leute damals, da ihr Glauben groß war. Während des Buches merkt man erst richtig, wie sehr der Glaube die Leute beeinflussen, zueinander und voneinander weg führen kann. Ich fand die Persönlichkeiten richtig gut dargestellt und liebte Maryam für ihre Stärke. Doch auch die Nebenfiguren zeigten Stärke, die nicht unterging.
Schreibstil & Sichtweise
Der Schreibstil war sehr flüssig zu lesen und unerwartet mitreißend. Obwohl viel alltägliche Dinge geschehen, kam ich nicht von dem Buch los, da sie so realistisch beschrieben wurden, so mitfühlend, dass die Emotionen in mir hoch kamen oder der Schock mich einnahm.
Geschrieben ist das Buch aus Maryams Sicht in der Ich-Perspektive.
Cover & Titel
Das Cover ist eine einzige Augenweide, ich liebe es. Es ist einfach komplett anders, als die Cover, die man alle so kennt. Der Schatten der Person, umwunden von einer Pflanze, die golden schimmert, als wäre sie aus der Flüssigkeit, die in dem Gefäß ruht, was die Person hält. Das Cover strahlt eine Ruhe und Schönheit aus.
Der Titel bringt den Inhalt auf den Punkt, um den es geht. Ein kleines Gefäß, ein kleines Objekt, welches einen so großen Stein ins Rollen bringt.
Zitat
"Natürlich gebe ich dir keine Schuld daran, mein Kind. Schau, Männer sind wie Händler, sie kaufen die Regeln auf, als hätten sie alles Geld der Welt, und dann müssen die Frauen als Kamele herhalten und die Lasten für sie schleppen." - Seiten 77
Fazit
Eine wirklich mitreißende Geschichte, die das Leben der damaligen Zeit, mit einem strengen Glauben, gut darstellt. Viele atemraubende Szenarios, tolle Charaktere. Wer jedoch dem Glauben abgeneigt ist, der sollte sich bewusst sein, dass dieser eine große Rolle spielt.
Geschichte
Vorweg ist zu sagen, dass diese Geschichte auf einer biblischen Geschichte basiert und auch viel mit Glauben zu tun hat. Ich persönlich bin neutral auf diesem Gebiet und wollte mich von der Geschichte überraschen lassen, ohne Vorurteile.
So viel mir der Anfang auch sehr leicht. Zunächst schwankt die Geschichte zwischen Gegenwart und Vergangenheit der Protagonistin. Die Kapitelanfänge sind jeweils aus der Gegenwart, doch vergas ich das oft, da der Zeitenwechsel nicht deutlich erkennbar war.
Die Lebensweisen und vor allem Glaubensmuster von damals - und teilweise noch heute - konnten mich immer wieder erstaunen. Zu lesen, was alles als unrein gilt und das die Leute tatsächlich danach leben, ist für meine deutschen Verhältnisse erstaunenswert.
Die Kapitel sind vielfältig und obwohl das Leben in dem Dorf sehr simpel ist, erlebt man immer wieder Abenteuer durch erschreckende Wahrheiten. Durch Schicksale, die oftmals gar nicht so selten vorkommen. Dadurch konnte das Buch mich fesseln und ich las es mit wenigen Pausen aus.
Als dann der Wunderdoktor gegen Ende eingebunden wurde, erhielt die Geschichte ihren letzten Schliff. Der Glauben rückte enorm in den Vordergrund, doch auch die Geschehnisse spitzten sich zu und brachten mir viel Lesefreude.
Einzig und allein die Emotionen der Protagonistin gegenüber des Vaters haben mir letzten Endes etwas gefehlt.
Charaktere
Alleine in der Familie der Protagonistin Maryam gab es viele unterschiedliche Charaktere. Jede Kleinigkeit beeinflusste die Leute damals, da ihr Glauben groß war. Während des Buches merkt man erst richtig, wie sehr der Glaube die Leute beeinflussen, zueinander und voneinander weg führen kann. Ich fand die Persönlichkeiten richtig gut dargestellt und liebte Maryam für ihre Stärke. Doch auch die Nebenfiguren zeigten Stärke, die nicht unterging.
Schreibstil & Sichtweise
Der Schreibstil war sehr flüssig zu lesen und unerwartet mitreißend. Obwohl viel alltägliche Dinge geschehen, kam ich nicht von dem Buch los, da sie so realistisch beschrieben wurden, so mitfühlend, dass die Emotionen in mir hoch kamen oder der Schock mich einnahm.
Geschrieben ist das Buch aus Maryams Sicht in der Ich-Perspektive.
Cover & Titel
Das Cover ist eine einzige Augenweide, ich liebe es. Es ist einfach komplett anders, als die Cover, die man alle so kennt. Der Schatten der Person, umwunden von einer Pflanze, die golden schimmert, als wäre sie aus der Flüssigkeit, die in dem Gefäß ruht, was die Person hält. Das Cover strahlt eine Ruhe und Schönheit aus.
Der Titel bringt den Inhalt auf den Punkt, um den es geht. Ein kleines Gefäß, ein kleines Objekt, welches einen so großen Stein ins Rollen bringt.
Zitat
"Natürlich gebe ich dir keine Schuld daran, mein Kind. Schau, Männer sind wie Händler, sie kaufen die Regeln auf, als hätten sie alles Geld der Welt, und dann müssen die Frauen als Kamele herhalten und die Lasten für sie schleppen." - Seiten 77
Fazit
Eine wirklich mitreißende Geschichte, die das Leben der damaligen Zeit, mit einem strengen Glauben, gut darstellt. Viele atemraubende Szenarios, tolle Charaktere. Wer jedoch dem Glauben abgeneigt ist, der sollte sich bewusst sein, dass dieser eine große Rolle spielt.
February 7, 2017
I thought I'd read enough novels based on Bible stories for the time being, but this one slipped past my guard. It's sneaky, since the title, cover and blurb give no indication that that's what this is. Neither do other reviewers, so hopefully I'm not being a spoil sport, or breaking some unwritten code. But I wasn't far into the story when the identities of the two sisters and their brother dawned on me. They are none other than Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Their names have been changed slightly to Mariam, Marta and Eleazar, to reflect their ancient Hebrew roots, but it's them alright.
There was a point around the 80% mark when I lost my impetus just a little. Since there were only a couple of Bible incidents about this family that hadn't been covered yet, I could predict what was coming. That's why I was having a break from biblical retellings in the first place. They're not necessarily page turners, but I was happy enough to pick this one back up in my own time.
It's not a total rehash of what we know already. This novel presents several possible scenarios of its own, including how such a lavish alabaster jar came to such a humble family in the first place. That really highlighted how special it was, and what a huge sacrifice the girls made when they decided what to do with it. There's also Mariam's marriage, their father's plight, and Eleazar's attitude before he thought things through.
The harsh New Testament times are really brought to life. A neighbour's bad fortune leads inevitably to nasty gossip and speculations, as people generally wonder if they've sinned. It's sad to read how the townsfolk use their interpretations of the Holy Scriptures as weapons to justify their mean spirited attitudes. It also highlights the immense desperation sufferers must have felt for their prayers to be answered. On top of whatever grief they were already going through, they had the added pressure of knowing that if no evident relief was forthcoming, they'd look like unworthy sinners. The time was surely ripe for the arrival of Jesus, with his message of grace and his new example of being God's hands and feet. (He was never called by name in Mariam's narrative. It was always just 'the Teacher' or 'the Doctor')
It was nice to see the two sisters depicted as close. I've seen other stories which give the impression that Mary and Martha might have been at loggerheads all the time. This one shows them generally on very loving terms, but Martha's nerves snapped because of the pressure of an unusual day. I like to think that's closer to the truth.
I really wish novels came with fragrance. The description of the spikenard once the jar was opened sounded sublime, and I badly wanted a sniff! Who remembers the old scratch and smell books for children? A story like this makes me want something similar for novels, since there's no way we can indulge our curiosity by going to buy spikenard from the local shop, if we could even afford it. Someone make scratch and smell books for adults, please :)
Thanks to Lion Hudson and Net Galley for my review copy.
For more book talk and reviews, visit my blog, http://vincereview.blogspot.com.au/
There was a point around the 80% mark when I lost my impetus just a little. Since there were only a couple of Bible incidents about this family that hadn't been covered yet, I could predict what was coming. That's why I was having a break from biblical retellings in the first place. They're not necessarily page turners, but I was happy enough to pick this one back up in my own time.
It's not a total rehash of what we know already. This novel presents several possible scenarios of its own, including how such a lavish alabaster jar came to such a humble family in the first place. That really highlighted how special it was, and what a huge sacrifice the girls made when they decided what to do with it. There's also Mariam's marriage, their father's plight, and Eleazar's attitude before he thought things through.
The harsh New Testament times are really brought to life. A neighbour's bad fortune leads inevitably to nasty gossip and speculations, as people generally wonder if they've sinned. It's sad to read how the townsfolk use their interpretations of the Holy Scriptures as weapons to justify their mean spirited attitudes. It also highlights the immense desperation sufferers must have felt for their prayers to be answered. On top of whatever grief they were already going through, they had the added pressure of knowing that if no evident relief was forthcoming, they'd look like unworthy sinners. The time was surely ripe for the arrival of Jesus, with his message of grace and his new example of being God's hands and feet. (He was never called by name in Mariam's narrative. It was always just 'the Teacher' or 'the Doctor')
It was nice to see the two sisters depicted as close. I've seen other stories which give the impression that Mary and Martha might have been at loggerheads all the time. This one shows them generally on very loving terms, but Martha's nerves snapped because of the pressure of an unusual day. I like to think that's closer to the truth.
I really wish novels came with fragrance. The description of the spikenard once the jar was opened sounded sublime, and I badly wanted a sniff! Who remembers the old scratch and smell books for children? A story like this makes me want something similar for novels, since there's no way we can indulge our curiosity by going to buy spikenard from the local shop, if we could even afford it. Someone make scratch and smell books for adults, please :)
Thanks to Lion Hudson and Net Galley for my review copy.
For more book talk and reviews, visit my blog, http://vincereview.blogspot.com.au/
January 18, 2023
A story full of drama and a touch of the supernatural which packs a lot into its 200 pages, as a girl, Miri, in ancient Palestine, is raped, becomes pregnant and is forced to marry her rapist, an abusive man named Ishmael. She loses the baby, becomes pregnant again but loses the baby again before deciding to leave Ishmael, a move completely alien to their small community. This is all amidst the backdrop of her father contracting leprosy, and he goes to join a leper colony, who are visited by a man known as The Doctor or The Teacher, who cures people of various ailments. Unfortunately his visit comes too late for the father who has passed away by the time he comes, but The Teacher comes to the village and stays with Miri and her sister, restoring them to a position of standing within the community, and the Teacher goes around healing people. It is kind of a Jesus story, as some people don't trust him and some want to get rid of him, but Miri manages to get him out of the village, after anointing him with a perfume from a family heirloom alabaster jar. The Teacher sets off to the capital to meet his fate, presumably death.
Not the kind of thing I would normally go for but this story is told very well, with the characters drawn deeply, the eventual identity of the Teacher concealed for a long time and the supernatural elements introduced only slowly.
Not the kind of thing I would normally go for but this story is told very well, with the characters drawn deeply, the eventual identity of the Teacher concealed for a long time and the supernatural elements introduced only slowly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2017
This review is based on a NetGalley ARC.
How shall I describe this book? It was one half good and one half 'meh'.
First, the writing was good. I was drawn into the story immediately. I felt for Mariam, the main character, and her struggles in her husband's family.
At first, I thought this was a book about female empowerment in the Middle East. It could have been a rather contemporary work. Bit by bit it became clear, this story is set in a very early century AD among a small Jewish community.
The further I read, the more religious the story became. It felt odd, it drew my focus away from the story of Mariam, and her life.
How shall I describe this book? It was one half good and one half 'meh'.
First, the writing was good. I was drawn into the story immediately. I felt for Mariam, the main character, and her struggles in her husband's family.
At first, I thought this was a book about female empowerment in the Middle East. It could have been a rather contemporary work. Bit by bit it became clear, this story is set in a very early century AD among a small Jewish community.
The further I read, the more religious the story became. It felt odd, it drew my focus away from the story of Mariam, and her life.
December 15, 2017
When going into reading this I didn't know that this was based on a story from the Bible, a biblical retelling of sorts. I found out from reading other reviews afterwards.
It deals with themes such as loss, rape, domestic violence and leprosy and the stigma that surrounds it. I'm not going to go into much detail about the story but this story is much about the oppression of women as much as anything else and was quite a quick read. It delves into religion, and prophets so if you're not keen on religious stories or reading about that then this won't be for you, otherwise I'm sure it'll make for an interesting read as it did for me.
Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It deals with themes such as loss, rape, domestic violence and leprosy and the stigma that surrounds it. I'm not going to go into much detail about the story but this story is much about the oppression of women as much as anything else and was quite a quick read. It delves into religion, and prophets so if you're not keen on religious stories or reading about that then this won't be for you, otherwise I'm sure it'll make for an interesting read as it did for me.
Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2018
Loved it. Interestingly, I had forgotten what the blurb said by the time I came to read the book, and as I got into it I wondered where and when it was set ... could be Middle East, Turkey, could be one of many centuries. Village life, with its well, marketplace and olive groves, was lovingly described. As the story unfolded, told by Mariam, the time period and location became crystal clear. Cleverly written and very enjoyable! Had I known beforehand what the story was based on, I might not have been so keen to read it - this would have been my loss.
Thanks to the publisher for a digital review copy.
Thanks to the publisher for a digital review copy.
April 8, 2025
A novel of Mary of Bethany. Excellently immersive into the place and culture in the time of Jesus. It’s mostly a story filled loss and grievance and hardship…until “the doctor” comes. The characters are well drawn and this Jesus is warm, knowing, personable, unconstrained by norms, empathetic, wise, human, purposeful, and wonderfully transformative to those whose lives are touched my him. Beautiful ending.
Content considerations especially for parents: several times sexual encounters/assault are described.
Content considerations especially for parents: several times sexual encounters/assault are described.
February 8, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and loved the way the author brings a bible story to life and answers all those unasked / unanswered questions. It has a lot of adult detail that perhaps I would not expect in a book bought at the Christian bookshop. Because of that I would not recommend it to young teens and would be embarrassed to lend it to my mother! Having said that I do recommend the book and am glad I found it.
June 3, 2017
When reading the Bible, context is a cornerstone. This book gives the historical, cultural, and emotional context to help you place yourself in the life & plight of a young Jewish woman living at the turn of the century, when grace happens upon her unexpectedly... (the realisation of who she is will bloom upon you slowly & beautifully). Eyes opened & heart hit through this beautiful narrative.
May 27, 2020
This book tells a captivating story that engages right from the first page. While I am not from a religious background, I very much enjoy reading it and could see parallels with other sources of conflict. The characters are well developed and the settings are described to an extent that one feels being immersed in the story. It was probably the fastest I've read a book lately.
September 25, 2023
This whole book felt like someone trauma dumping on you and honestly books that do that just aren't for me. I am not religious, and religious themes with "magical cures" just really rub me the wrong way as a chronically ill person. I did appreciate the insight into a different culture, I just wished the book stayed in that space instead of where it ended up.
June 13, 2024
Das Buch ist heftig. Heftig schlimm, traurig aber auch wunderschön. In den ersten Seiten war ich erschrocken über das Leben dieser jungen Frau, doch die Wendung und der Fokus des Buches sind toll! Ich liebe es, wenn biblische Geschichten in einem Roman wiederzufinden sind und man sich auf einmal ganz anders Gedanken darüber macht
February 25, 2021
A beautiful book by my friend, Chris. He paints such a colourful and authentic picture of the characters — living in the most important period in human history.
I'd give it 4.5 stars if I could. Everyone should read it 🙂
I'd give it 4.5 stars if I could. Everyone should read it 🙂
April 21, 2018
Great retelling of a bible story.
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