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Recovering the Lost Art of Reading: A Quest for the True, the Good, and the Beautiful
A Christian Perspective on the Joys of Reading Reading has become a lost art. With smartphones offering us endless information with the tap of a finger, it’s hard to view reading as anything less than a tedious and outdated endeavor. This is particularly problematic for Christians, as many find it difficult to read even the Bible consistently and attentively. Reading is in desperate need of recovery. Recovering the Lost Art of Reading addresses these issues by exploring the importance of reading in general as well as studying the Bible as literature, offering practical suggestions along the way. Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes inspire a new generation to overcome the notion that reading is a duty and instead discover it as a delight.
Unknown Binding
First published March 1, 2021
32 people are currently reading
549 people want to read
About the author
Leland Ryken
119 books134 followersDr. Ryken has served on the faculty of Wheaton College since 1968. He has published over thirty books and more than one hundred articles and essays, devoting much of his scholarship to Bible translations and the study of the Bible as literature. He served as Literary Chairman for the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible and in 2003 received the distinguished Gutenberg Award for his contributions to education, writing, and the understanding of the Bible.
He is the father of Philip Graham Ryken
He is the father of Philip Graham Ryken
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 24, 2022
Unfortunately, I don't think I am really the audience for this book. It's something of an apology for reading, with trite ideas like "watch less TV" and "read in line at the DMV." I already read a lot. It also covers some basic techniques for reading deeply, which were nice reminders but not new ground for me. (I was an English major.) The chapters are short, and highly referential. I think Recovering the Lost Art of Reading was for those who have truly lost it, or for those who have never had it. As I'm not in those areas, I found this book a bit lacking in substance.
What turned me off in the beginning was the authors' defensive posture regarding reading. Someone who doesn't want to become a reader is not going to pick up a book about the joys of reading! So why be defensive about it? As an avid reader myself, I could not identify with all the scare stats about the state of reading in today's world. That's a poor argument anyway; as literacy grew throughout history, people decried the loss of an oral culture. When the radio came, people decried the loss of reading. When the television came, the smartphone, what have you, it's the same thing. Readers still read. Reading picked up during the pandemic, mind you.
Despite their Christian commitment, the authors show little to no interest in reading diverse voices. In the chapter on children's literature, they affirm this quotation from Jill Carlson: "In the name of diversity, our kids are offered books channeling them into a humanistic dead end." (124) Yet, the authors don't attempt to provide a list of diverse books that meet their criteria, for children or adults. Reading to discover other cultures, traditions, and ways of being is not promoted here. That sort of reading is like a straightjacket for me. Reading gives me the world. *insert quotation about literature being a mirror and a window here*
You'd think, for a book with a chapter extolling exemplary literary styles, the wordsmithing would be better. Yet, we get sentences like, "The question whether fantasy can embody truth receives a preliminary affirmative answer." Thinking back to my conferences with my beloved English professor, I can recall a few ways to make that sentence punchier. The prosy style is doing no favors to non-readers hoping to become readers through the encouragement of this book.
Maybe part of my personal curse in reading this book comes from the fact that I've read so much about reading that the authors' references were mostly familiar to me. They didn't add enough new content to make Recovering the Lost Art of Reading worth it for me, but perhaps for those who would rather condense their reading-about-reading to one book, it would be much more helpful. The novels, poetry, and so forth that they reference were also very familiar to me. Absolutely no surprises or titles I raced to jot down. The usual Austen, Dickens, Twain, Tolkien, Lewis circuit. That was a little disappointing, as the authors are both much older than me and have presumably read many more books than I have, and I am always eager for recommendations.
Some poor attention to detail results in calling Sarah Clarkson "Susan," which was kind of funny because Clarkson has written much more eloquently about the joys of reading than the authors do. Some really poor examples reveal a lack of humility on the authors' part when it comes to receiving literature. They do not follow Lewis in finding that readers' experiences contribute to value, as does quality. Recently, I had a deep moral experience reading an Aunt Dimity cozy mystery, but according to these authors Aunt Dimity and her ilk are to be dismissed outright because they are lacking some "quality" that "higher" literature has. If my reading diet were only Aunt Dimity, my brain would, indeed, suffer. If my reading diet were only Classics™, my humility and simplicity would suffer. Both is good.
Better books about reading:
Steeped in Stories by Mitali Perkins
The Pleasures of Reading in an Age of Distraction by Alan Jacobs
Thomas C. Foster's How to Read ___ Like a Professor books
The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie
Discovering God through the Arts by Terry W. Glaspey
An Experiment in Criticism by C. S. Lewis
Book Girl by Sarah Clarkson
Bequest of Wings: A Family's Pleasure with Books by Annis Duff
Booked: Literature in the Soul of Me and On Reading Well by Karen Swallow Prior
What turned me off in the beginning was the authors' defensive posture regarding reading. Someone who doesn't want to become a reader is not going to pick up a book about the joys of reading! So why be defensive about it? As an avid reader myself, I could not identify with all the scare stats about the state of reading in today's world. That's a poor argument anyway; as literacy grew throughout history, people decried the loss of an oral culture. When the radio came, people decried the loss of reading. When the television came, the smartphone, what have you, it's the same thing. Readers still read. Reading picked up during the pandemic, mind you.
Despite their Christian commitment, the authors show little to no interest in reading diverse voices. In the chapter on children's literature, they affirm this quotation from Jill Carlson: "In the name of diversity, our kids are offered books channeling them into a humanistic dead end." (124) Yet, the authors don't attempt to provide a list of diverse books that meet their criteria, for children or adults. Reading to discover other cultures, traditions, and ways of being is not promoted here. That sort of reading is like a straightjacket for me. Reading gives me the world. *insert quotation about literature being a mirror and a window here*
You'd think, for a book with a chapter extolling exemplary literary styles, the wordsmithing would be better. Yet, we get sentences like, "The question whether fantasy can embody truth receives a preliminary affirmative answer." Thinking back to my conferences with my beloved English professor, I can recall a few ways to make that sentence punchier. The prosy style is doing no favors to non-readers hoping to become readers through the encouragement of this book.
Maybe part of my personal curse in reading this book comes from the fact that I've read so much about reading that the authors' references were mostly familiar to me. They didn't add enough new content to make Recovering the Lost Art of Reading worth it for me, but perhaps for those who would rather condense their reading-about-reading to one book, it would be much more helpful. The novels, poetry, and so forth that they reference were also very familiar to me. Absolutely no surprises or titles I raced to jot down. The usual Austen, Dickens, Twain, Tolkien, Lewis circuit. That was a little disappointing, as the authors are both much older than me and have presumably read many more books than I have, and I am always eager for recommendations.
Some poor attention to detail results in calling Sarah Clarkson "Susan," which was kind of funny because Clarkson has written much more eloquently about the joys of reading than the authors do. Some really poor examples reveal a lack of humility on the authors' part when it comes to receiving literature. They do not follow Lewis in finding that readers' experiences contribute to value, as does quality. Recently, I had a deep moral experience reading an Aunt Dimity cozy mystery, but according to these authors Aunt Dimity and her ilk are to be dismissed outright because they are lacking some "quality" that "higher" literature has. If my reading diet were only Aunt Dimity, my brain would, indeed, suffer. If my reading diet were only Classics™, my humility and simplicity would suffer. Both is good.
Better books about reading:
Steeped in Stories by Mitali Perkins
The Pleasures of Reading in an Age of Distraction by Alan Jacobs
Thomas C. Foster's How to Read ___ Like a Professor books
The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie
Discovering God through the Arts by Terry W. Glaspey
An Experiment in Criticism by C. S. Lewis
Book Girl by Sarah Clarkson
Bequest of Wings: A Family's Pleasure with Books by Annis Duff
Booked: Literature in the Soul of Me and On Reading Well by Karen Swallow Prior
April 22, 2023
An interesting and encouraging read that spurred me on to slow down and delight in good books. It got a bit repetitive, but overall, it helped me see merit in reading as more than just a hobby, and that it’s ok to be picky in seeking out books that highlight the “good, true, and beautiful.”
March 30, 2021
3/29/2021 * 4.5 stars
#LitLife192021 for a book on Education, Art, or Literature
#VT Reading Challenge 2021
I listened to the audio version (mostly) while doing yard work and enjoyed it so much I've ordered a print copy so I can highlight my favorite parts. Definitely is being added to my list of favorite books about books. And once I re-read the print copy I hope to come back and add some of my favorite quotes.
#LitLife192021 for a book on Education, Art, or Literature
#VT Reading Challenge 2021
I listened to the audio version (mostly) while doing yard work and enjoyed it so much I've ordered a print copy so I can highlight my favorite parts. Definitely is being added to my list of favorite books about books. And once I re-read the print copy I hope to come back and add some of my favorite quotes.
July 15, 2021
What a fun book. I'll be recommending this one for folks wanting to take reading a touch more seriously.
March 2, 2021
First sentence from the introduction: Perhaps you’re wondering about this book’s title. Does reading need to be recovered? What makes it an art? And is it really lost? After all, here you are—reading a book.
First sentence from chapter one, part one: “Read any good books lately?” This question once functioned as a common conversation-starter, but now we’re more likely to hear, “What are your plans for the weekend?” or “Did you catch the game last night?”
The premise of this one is simple: reading--well, reading artfully, thoughtfully, carefully, appreciatively--is a lost art form that needs to be recovered. The authors seem to be saying that there is a right way and a wrong way to read books, or, that not all reading is created equal. One could read hundreds--thousands--of books but if they aren't "quality" enough to suit the authors, well, it's discounted as lesser than--at best.
The authors describe their book as a "a guidebook by two seasoned and enthusiastic reading travelers, who show all readers—from those who rarely pick up a book to English majors and everyone between—how to discover more delight in the reading journey."
They mention several reasons why it is vital for individuals to recover this lost art of reading. Most significantly they point out that if one can't read well, read artfully (etc.,) then one can't read the Bible well either. By letting go of reading deeply (artfully, thoughtfully, carefully, etc.) , one is sacrificing one's spiritual growth.
(They also argue that losing reading means the loss of meaningful leisure; losing reading means we lose out on opportunities to foster our sense of beauty; losing reading means we lose contact with 'essential human experience.' They write, "The literary enterprise shapes and forms us. The very nature of reading is contemplation of the human experience and the world in which it exists.")
This book has three parts: "Reading is a Lost Art," "Reading Literature," and "Recovering the Art of Reading." In the first part, they make their case for considering reading an art form and a LOST art form at that. They are supposing that most people don't read, and those that do read rarely read well. Therefore both need some stirring up or encouragement to read better.
In the second part, the focus shifts to LITERATURE. What is literature? How is it defined? How is it separate or different from other books? What are its distinguishing characteristics? What makes one book literature and another not? How should one read various types of literature? It's all about categories and groups. They talk about characters, narratives, settings, structure and forms.
In the third part, the authors give practical-ish tips on how to recover the art of reading.
All three parts are written with a Christian reader in mind, the focus being on how to benefit spiritually from reading literature.
The book is complex and substantive.
I have a B.A. and M.A. in English literature and an M.L.S. (My focus was children's literature.) I have strong opinions. I don't always agree, and, in fact sometimes strongly disagree with the authors of this book. That being said, I do support some of their argument.
There are two extremes when it comes to defining and/or describing literature. One extreme is that EVERYTHING (all text, every text) is literature. The other extreme is that (actual) literature is a rare unicorn.
This scene from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice comes to mind:
That extreme sets the standard of "what is literature" so impossibly high that it's difficult not to get a snobbish vibe from it.
So how do the authors define it? Literature is: experiential, concrete, universal, interpretive, and artistic. or It can be briefly defined as a concrete, interpretive presentation of human experience in an artistic form.
My favorite description of literature comes from Ray Bradbury:
If I've understood the authors correctly in what is quality--what is good, what is true, what is beautiful, what is literature--I am in between the two extremes. I don't view "literature" so narrowly and exclusively. (For example, the authors unashamedly diss children's literature (with a few rare exceptions) and Christian fiction.)
First sentence from chapter one, part one: “Read any good books lately?” This question once functioned as a common conversation-starter, but now we’re more likely to hear, “What are your plans for the weekend?” or “Did you catch the game last night?”
The premise of this one is simple: reading--well, reading artfully, thoughtfully, carefully, appreciatively--is a lost art form that needs to be recovered. The authors seem to be saying that there is a right way and a wrong way to read books, or, that not all reading is created equal. One could read hundreds--thousands--of books but if they aren't "quality" enough to suit the authors, well, it's discounted as lesser than--at best.
The authors describe their book as a "a guidebook by two seasoned and enthusiastic reading travelers, who show all readers—from those who rarely pick up a book to English majors and everyone between—how to discover more delight in the reading journey."
They mention several reasons why it is vital for individuals to recover this lost art of reading. Most significantly they point out that if one can't read well, read artfully (etc.,) then one can't read the Bible well either. By letting go of reading deeply (artfully, thoughtfully, carefully, etc.) , one is sacrificing one's spiritual growth.
(They also argue that losing reading means the loss of meaningful leisure; losing reading means we lose out on opportunities to foster our sense of beauty; losing reading means we lose contact with 'essential human experience.' They write, "The literary enterprise shapes and forms us. The very nature of reading is contemplation of the human experience and the world in which it exists.")
This book has three parts: "Reading is a Lost Art," "Reading Literature," and "Recovering the Art of Reading." In the first part, they make their case for considering reading an art form and a LOST art form at that. They are supposing that most people don't read, and those that do read rarely read well. Therefore both need some stirring up or encouragement to read better.
In the second part, the focus shifts to LITERATURE. What is literature? How is it defined? How is it separate or different from other books? What are its distinguishing characteristics? What makes one book literature and another not? How should one read various types of literature? It's all about categories and groups. They talk about characters, narratives, settings, structure and forms.
In the third part, the authors give practical-ish tips on how to recover the art of reading.
All three parts are written with a Christian reader in mind, the focus being on how to benefit spiritually from reading literature.
The book is complex and substantive.
I have a B.A. and M.A. in English literature and an M.L.S. (My focus was children's literature.) I have strong opinions. I don't always agree, and, in fact sometimes strongly disagree with the authors of this book. That being said, I do support some of their argument.
There are two extremes when it comes to defining and/or describing literature. One extreme is that EVERYTHING (all text, every text) is literature. The other extreme is that (actual) literature is a rare unicorn.
This scene from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice comes to mind:
"It is amazing to me," said Bingley, "how young ladies can have patience to be so very accomplished, as they all are."
"All young ladies accomplished! My dear Charles, what do you mean?"
"Yes, all of them, I think. They all paint tables, cover skreens and net purses. I scarcely know any one who cannot do all this, and I am sure I never heard a young lady spoken of for the first time, without being informed that she was very accomplished."
"Your list of the common extent of accomplishments," said Darcy, "has too much truth. The word is applied to many a woman who deserves it no otherwise than by netting a purse, or covering a screen. But I am very far from agreeing with you in your estimation of ladies in general. I cannot boast of knowing more than half a dozen, in the whole range of my acquaintance, that are really accomplished."
"Nor I, I am sure," said Miss Bingley.
"Then," observed Elizabeth, "you must comprehend a great deal in your idea of an accomplished woman."
"Yes; I do comprehend a great deal in it."
"Oh! certainly," cried his faithful assistant, "no one can be really esteemed accomplished, who does not greatly surpass what is usually met with. A woman must have a thorough knowledge of music, singing, drawing, dancing, and the modern languages, to deserve the word; and besides all this, she must possess a certain something in her air and manner of walking, the tone of her voice, her address and expressions, or the word will be but half deserved."
"All this she must possess," added Darcy, "and to all this she must yet add something more substantial, in the improvement of her mind by extensive reading."
"I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any."
"Are you so severe upon your own sex, as to doubt the possibility of all this?"
"I never saw such a woman. I never saw such capacity, and taste, and application, and elegance, as you describe, united."
That extreme sets the standard of "what is literature" so impossibly high that it's difficult not to get a snobbish vibe from it.
So how do the authors define it? Literature is: experiential, concrete, universal, interpretive, and artistic. or It can be briefly defined as a concrete, interpretive presentation of human experience in an artistic form.
My favorite description of literature comes from Ray Bradbury:
"Do you know why books such as this are so important? Because they have quality. And what does the word quality mean? To me it means texture. This book has pores. It has features. This book can go under the microscope. You'd find life under the glass, streaming past in infinite profusion. The more pores, the more truthfully recorded details of life per square inch you can get on a sheet of paper, the more 'literary' you are. That's my definition, anyway. Telling detail. Fresh detail. The good writers touch life often. the mediocre ones run a quick hand over her. The bad ones rape her and leave her for the flies. So now do you see why books are hated and feared? They show the pores in the face of life."
If I've understood the authors correctly in what is quality--what is good, what is true, what is beautiful, what is literature--I am in between the two extremes. I don't view "literature" so narrowly and exclusively. (For example, the authors unashamedly diss children's literature (with a few rare exceptions) and Christian fiction.)
September 13, 2023
Recovering the Lost Art of Reading was good medicine for me. While I am a committed reader, I had become less intentional and sloppy. Reading had lost the delight that it once held. This book rekindled the desire in my heart to correct those failings and alerted me once again to the importance of the art.
This book contains three sections: Part 1-Reading Is a Lost Art, Part 2-Reading Literature, Part 3-Recovering the Art of Reading. While some might consider the subject matter academic or boring, I found it not to be so in the least. The book stands true to the principles that it advances and is well written, engaging, and consistently profitable.
In the first part of the book, Reading Is a Lost Art, the authors cite studies showing that many Americans will not read even one book a year (somewhere around 25%-30%). But the message to me wasn’t to consider the sins of society but to consider the fact that we are products of what we read. Failure to read contributes to the inability to think and grow. While we might not consciously recall all the details of a book, the act of reading changes our minds. The authors raise a special warning to Christians whom they refer to as a “child of the Book.” They ask, “[If] we’ve lost the ability to read the Bible consistently and attentively. What then happens to our relationship with God?” This quote summarizes the main point of this section for me:
The decline of reading has impoverished our culture and individual lives. We have lost mental sharpness, verbal skills, and ability to think and imagine. Our leisure has little meaning, and we're consumed with self. We fail to recognize beauty or the value of either the past or essential human experience. We suffer from a lack of edification and a shrunken vision.
In the second part of the book, Reading Literature, the authors begin by defining literature. For those not familiar with this study, one would think such a definition easy; such is not the case. The authors give “five foundation principles that underlie literature.” Literature is: “experimental, concrete, universal, interpretive, and artistic.” They then go on to define and make their case for each fundamental aspect. They then address a wide variety of literature: story, poems, novels, fantasy, children’s books, creative-non-fiction, the Bible. They discuss the value of each of these, as well as how to discern the quality of examples of each.
The authors quote Annie Dillard, which was my favorite quote of the book:
Why are we reading, if not in hope of beauty laid bare, life heightened and its deepest mystery probed? Can the writer isolate and vivify all in experience that most deeply engages our intellects and our hearts? Can the writer renew our hope for literary forms? Why are we reading if not in hope that the writer will magnify and dramatize our days, will illuminate and inspire us with wisdom, courage, and the possibility of meaningfulness, and will press upon our minds the deepest mysteries, so we may feel again their majesty and power?
In the third part of the book, Recovering the Art of Reading, the authors begin by addressing the problem with reading today. While they acknowledge the implications of the internet and the electronic age, they recognize that the problem transcends that. The problem is that people are not more deeply engaged in and with the written word. They challenge individual readers to think of themselves as perusers, partners, and participants. As perusers, we are simply people who read, and increasingly so. As partners, we learn to enter into “the conversation of the author.” Finally, as participants, they discuss how to participate in the literary work by “receiving and responding to it.” They discuss how to discover good literature, that is, literature that is “good, true, and beautiful.”
The authors don’t provide a list of books that they deem to be literature. In so doing I think they do the reader a service. They have just taught readers to fish; now readers should go and catch their own. The authors encouraged me to be an ardent, intentional, thoughtful reader. They provided counsel to assist me in that task. They challenged me to broaden my reading horizon and to return to a more considered approach. They also gave me permission to put books down if I don’t enjoy them and showed me where to look to find those that are worthy. Ultimately, this book provoked in me a desire to read and enjoy what is good, right, and true.
This book contains three sections: Part 1-Reading Is a Lost Art, Part 2-Reading Literature, Part 3-Recovering the Art of Reading. While some might consider the subject matter academic or boring, I found it not to be so in the least. The book stands true to the principles that it advances and is well written, engaging, and consistently profitable.
In the first part of the book, Reading Is a Lost Art, the authors cite studies showing that many Americans will not read even one book a year (somewhere around 25%-30%). But the message to me wasn’t to consider the sins of society but to consider the fact that we are products of what we read. Failure to read contributes to the inability to think and grow. While we might not consciously recall all the details of a book, the act of reading changes our minds. The authors raise a special warning to Christians whom they refer to as a “child of the Book.” They ask, “[If] we’ve lost the ability to read the Bible consistently and attentively. What then happens to our relationship with God?” This quote summarizes the main point of this section for me:
The decline of reading has impoverished our culture and individual lives. We have lost mental sharpness, verbal skills, and ability to think and imagine. Our leisure has little meaning, and we're consumed with self. We fail to recognize beauty or the value of either the past or essential human experience. We suffer from a lack of edification and a shrunken vision.
In the second part of the book, Reading Literature, the authors begin by defining literature. For those not familiar with this study, one would think such a definition easy; such is not the case. The authors give “five foundation principles that underlie literature.” Literature is: “experimental, concrete, universal, interpretive, and artistic.” They then go on to define and make their case for each fundamental aspect. They then address a wide variety of literature: story, poems, novels, fantasy, children’s books, creative-non-fiction, the Bible. They discuss the value of each of these, as well as how to discern the quality of examples of each.
The authors quote Annie Dillard, which was my favorite quote of the book:
Why are we reading, if not in hope of beauty laid bare, life heightened and its deepest mystery probed? Can the writer isolate and vivify all in experience that most deeply engages our intellects and our hearts? Can the writer renew our hope for literary forms? Why are we reading if not in hope that the writer will magnify and dramatize our days, will illuminate and inspire us with wisdom, courage, and the possibility of meaningfulness, and will press upon our minds the deepest mysteries, so we may feel again their majesty and power?
In the third part of the book, Recovering the Art of Reading, the authors begin by addressing the problem with reading today. While they acknowledge the implications of the internet and the electronic age, they recognize that the problem transcends that. The problem is that people are not more deeply engaged in and with the written word. They challenge individual readers to think of themselves as perusers, partners, and participants. As perusers, we are simply people who read, and increasingly so. As partners, we learn to enter into “the conversation of the author.” Finally, as participants, they discuss how to participate in the literary work by “receiving and responding to it.” They discuss how to discover good literature, that is, literature that is “good, true, and beautiful.”
The authors don’t provide a list of books that they deem to be literature. In so doing I think they do the reader a service. They have just taught readers to fish; now readers should go and catch their own. The authors encouraged me to be an ardent, intentional, thoughtful reader. They provided counsel to assist me in that task. They challenged me to broaden my reading horizon and to return to a more considered approach. They also gave me permission to put books down if I don’t enjoy them and showed me where to look to find those that are worthy. Ultimately, this book provoked in me a desire to read and enjoy what is good, right, and true.
May 13, 2021
A well-rounded work about everything that is important about reading. Ryken and Faye Mathes present in this book an appeal to return to the lost art of reading in all its glory, a guide on how to read (and what to expect from) different genres, how to make the most of reading and a christian approach to literature. They also show us how reading can bring us real rest, educate us and enrichen our lives.
What I loved especially was their approach to how we can meet and understand more about God even in secular writing, because where there is true beauty, there is an essence and a glimpse of God.
Naturally this is a more theoretical approach to the subject and in the middle it got a bit dry for me personally, but it is worthwhile to push through these passages to come to a deeper understanding of the matter.
I listened to this by audiobook, but definitely want to read it again in paperback to dwell better on its wisdom.
I thank Netgalley and Crossway for an ARC to read and review.
What I loved especially was their approach to how we can meet and understand more about God even in secular writing, because where there is true beauty, there is an essence and a glimpse of God.
Naturally this is a more theoretical approach to the subject and in the middle it got a bit dry for me personally, but it is worthwhile to push through these passages to come to a deeper understanding of the matter.
I listened to this by audiobook, but definitely want to read it again in paperback to dwell better on its wisdom.
I thank Netgalley and Crossway for an ARC to read and review.
February 20, 2023
Good but overall a bit disappointed. As an avid reader, I am all for any book advocating for and promoting reading. However, this book was more dry and literary than I expected. I love the overall theme to encourage us to recover thoughtful and discerning reading practices, to choose the best books, to look for God In literature, to read all genres and types, to prioritize reading, etc. Despite my enthusiastic agreement with all this, I often found myself losing interest. Then I would be excited to discover a beautiful passage or a wonderful quote, only to wander off in interest again after another paragraph or so.
Summary: 3 stars but with a 5 star vote for the subject matter and intention of the book
Summary: 3 stars but with a 5 star vote for the subject matter and intention of the book
January 24, 2025
What is the purpose of reading according to the Christian worldview? How does reading honor God? Why did God wire us to resonate so much with stories? How do we read and find God in poetry, fairytales, fantasy, romance, nonfiction, etc.?
Leland Ryken is my favorite Christian literary thinker and he does a phenomenal job breaking all these questions and more down. This is a perfect book for believers to be better informed and grow in reading to the glory of God!
Leland Ryken is my favorite Christian literary thinker and he does a phenomenal job breaking all these questions and more down. This is a perfect book for believers to be better informed and grow in reading to the glory of God!
March 4, 2022
What I liked most about this book is twofold. One, it wasn't a lament about how these people today are just too stupid to really read a book. It does provide a three-part look that identifies that, indeed, people's reading comprehension has been limited by a de-emphasis on critical, genre-specific reading. The other is the use of specific quotes from authors to really make their case for each topic they spoke about. There are really some gems that I grabbed as a love of books, reading, and literature.
The authors do come at the subject from a Christian worldview, which they want to focus all literature through. However, non-Christians can also read this book to get a lot from it. Yet, the authors rightly attribute the Christian worldview in making possible literature "The very example of The Bible establishes the necessity of literature in a Christian life. Scripture does more than sanction literature, it shows us that literature is indispensable in knowing and communicating our most important truths" (p.64).
Part 1 establishes the issue to show the art of reading is lost. That is, a critical thinking way of reading and not just one for entertainment and enjoyment. Defining the problem flows to the other two parts.
Part 2 was my favorite part of the book. It defined literature - "a concrete, interpretive presentation of human experience in an artistic form" (p.61) and why it's important. Then they looked at different genres and expressed what each one was, what they do, and tips on how best to read them. Stories, poems, novels, fantasy/sci-fi, children's books, non-fiction, and The Bible as literature were discussed. There is a really interesting discussion on escapism vs. literature as an escape in the fantasy/sci-fi section. For the non-fiction section the discussion on balancing the story structure and telling the truth was also an interesting discussion. Probably the most helpful one was reading poems and the most practical was reading children's books. All of them went back to the touchstone of the Christian worldview.
Part 3 was a more practical take on reading in general. I would have actually liked to have seen part 2 and three switched as I saw how to read literature to fulfill the main premises of the book. Here, in part 3, the authors talked about the very important and overlooked truth that there is no neutral viewpoint and the importance of worldview is discussed here. This is almost a topic for another book entirely but the subject is covered well enough. And alongside is a good discussion on objective beauty especially in literature. Truth-telling and reality-based relationship between whatever genre or subject and the reader were also good points to discuss to help fill in some of the missing parts of a critical read. The section ended with a call to find some time to read and the distractions in place that prevent us and to also check out good books.
There are many good ideas in this book that are worthy of conversation and challenging someone who likes to read but maybe never looked into it more. The call for critical reading isn't a call to never have fun reading again or be stuffy in your reading. It is a call that you shouldn't turn off part of your brain while reading anything and evaluating what you're reading through your worldview is another layer that is missed that should be done by everyone. While part three gets a little meandering at times, overall this is a good book to check out, especially for Christians and those who enjoy reading or teach reading in a homeschool setting. Final Grade - B+
The authors do come at the subject from a Christian worldview, which they want to focus all literature through. However, non-Christians can also read this book to get a lot from it. Yet, the authors rightly attribute the Christian worldview in making possible literature "The very example of The Bible establishes the necessity of literature in a Christian life. Scripture does more than sanction literature, it shows us that literature is indispensable in knowing and communicating our most important truths" (p.64).
Part 1 establishes the issue to show the art of reading is lost. That is, a critical thinking way of reading and not just one for entertainment and enjoyment. Defining the problem flows to the other two parts.
Part 2 was my favorite part of the book. It defined literature - "a concrete, interpretive presentation of human experience in an artistic form" (p.61) and why it's important. Then they looked at different genres and expressed what each one was, what they do, and tips on how best to read them. Stories, poems, novels, fantasy/sci-fi, children's books, non-fiction, and The Bible as literature were discussed. There is a really interesting discussion on escapism vs. literature as an escape in the fantasy/sci-fi section. For the non-fiction section the discussion on balancing the story structure and telling the truth was also an interesting discussion. Probably the most helpful one was reading poems and the most practical was reading children's books. All of them went back to the touchstone of the Christian worldview.
Part 3 was a more practical take on reading in general. I would have actually liked to have seen part 2 and three switched as I saw how to read literature to fulfill the main premises of the book. Here, in part 3, the authors talked about the very important and overlooked truth that there is no neutral viewpoint and the importance of worldview is discussed here. This is almost a topic for another book entirely but the subject is covered well enough. And alongside is a good discussion on objective beauty especially in literature. Truth-telling and reality-based relationship between whatever genre or subject and the reader were also good points to discuss to help fill in some of the missing parts of a critical read. The section ended with a call to find some time to read and the distractions in place that prevent us and to also check out good books.
There are many good ideas in this book that are worthy of conversation and challenging someone who likes to read but maybe never looked into it more. The call for critical reading isn't a call to never have fun reading again or be stuffy in your reading. It is a call that you shouldn't turn off part of your brain while reading anything and evaluating what you're reading through your worldview is another layer that is missed that should be done by everyone. While part three gets a little meandering at times, overall this is a good book to check out, especially for Christians and those who enjoy reading or teach reading in a homeschool setting. Final Grade - B+
August 8, 2021
Summary: An invitation to artful reading, considering its decline, different kinds of literature and how we read them, and the art of reading well to discover goodness, truth, and beauty.
Much has been made over the supposed decline in reading, and contradictory statistics that show a rise in reading (especially during the pandemic). What is evident is that how and what we read has gone through changes. We read more on screens and audio and browse and scroll. There are questions about the loss of the ability to attend to longform writing.
The two authors of this book, one a literature professor, the other a professional writer, and both lovers of literature contend that what may be in decline is artful readers and have written this book to describe what it means to recover this art. They write:
“Reading a book immerses oneself into an extensive work. When this is done receptively and thoughtfully, it becomes artful reading. Some people call it “deep reading” and believe it is in deep trouble” (p. 23).
The authors believe that in our loss of artful or deep reading, we have lost leisure, self transcendence, contact with the past and with essential human experience, edification and an enlarged vision. The writers, drawing upon a Christian perspective, advocate for participation that both receives and responds to what the author has written, both actively listening (“obeying” in its original sense) and responding. It discerns both one’s own perspective and that of the author. In Dorothy Sayers words, there is the Book as Thought, the Book as Written, and the Book as Read.
Moving on from this introduction to artful reading, the authors consider what literature is in its different kinds. They note with sadness the shift from “literature” to “texts” in contemporary literary studies, but maintain the language of literature, distinguishing it from expository writing as concerned with the concrete rather than the abstract. The axiom of literature is to “show, not tell.” They further describe literature as experiential, concrete, universal, interpretive, and artistic. They defend the importance of literature as a portrayal of human experience, for seeing ideas rightly, and for the enjoyment of beauty. It transports us into imagined worlds, giving us renewed perspective on our own as well as refreshment.
They consider how we read different types of literature: story, poetry, novels, fantasy, children’s books, creative non-fiction and the Bible as a literary work. I so valued their simple instruction for poetry–slow down! In the reading of fantasy, they distinguish between escape and escapism, noting with C.S. Lewis that reading is always an escape, but one that ought give fresh perspective on the human condition. They address how to choose good books for children and the vital importance of reading and talking about books together.
The last part of the book returns to the recovery of the art of reading. Fundamentally, we recover by discovering good books and the good, the true, and the beautiful within them. We discern and assess the truth-claims in a book. We consider the moral perspective of the book–does it make the good or the evil attractive and who is valorized? We notice the use of language to point toward beauty, and the beautiful God. They describe excellence in beginnings, middles and ends.
All of this only makes sense in the context of our reading choices. They encourage us to embrace our freedom to read and observe in very practical terms the time thieves that rob us of precious hours. They consider how we choose good books and the role good literature plays in creativity and in one’s spiritual life.
I think one of the most valuable aspects of this book is the encouragement of leisurely, slow, and reflective engagement with good works, whatever their genre. They help us attend to plot, character, setting, and behind all this, the perspective of the author and the insights we gain into our common human condition. Their invitation to be participants in the work with the author while continuing to discern strikes a good balance.
I would have liked to see some book recommendations for those wanting to recover the art. Certainly, the authors mention books throughout, and the ones mentioned are worthwhile, but some bibliographies might have helped. Also while the authors discuss goodness and evil in literature, they don’t discuss beauty and ugliness, only beauty. The ugliness of the post-nuclear world in Cormac McCarthy’s The Road is a crucial offset to the beauty of the love of father and son. Sometimes, Christian literature seems too beautiful, in ways trite and artificial. The beauty and the healing comfort of Lothlorien gains its power from the horrors of Moria and the loss of Gandalf.
Those who practice any art always have a sense they could be better at their art. Reading is also an art. This book reminded me of ways I may be ever-improving at that art. I can work to remove the distractions to attentive reading. I may slow down, especially to savor a poem. I may re-read great works. I may attend to the story and the questions it opens up about the universal human condition. I may allow the book to enlarge my perspective if I give myself to it both attentively and discerningly, both open and observant. Ryken and Mathes invite us, whether the neophyte or the seasoned reader, to an ever-growing practice of the art of reading. After all, it is not how much, but how well we read.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Much has been made over the supposed decline in reading, and contradictory statistics that show a rise in reading (especially during the pandemic). What is evident is that how and what we read has gone through changes. We read more on screens and audio and browse and scroll. There are questions about the loss of the ability to attend to longform writing.
The two authors of this book, one a literature professor, the other a professional writer, and both lovers of literature contend that what may be in decline is artful readers and have written this book to describe what it means to recover this art. They write:
“Reading a book immerses oneself into an extensive work. When this is done receptively and thoughtfully, it becomes artful reading. Some people call it “deep reading” and believe it is in deep trouble” (p. 23).
The authors believe that in our loss of artful or deep reading, we have lost leisure, self transcendence, contact with the past and with essential human experience, edification and an enlarged vision. The writers, drawing upon a Christian perspective, advocate for participation that both receives and responds to what the author has written, both actively listening (“obeying” in its original sense) and responding. It discerns both one’s own perspective and that of the author. In Dorothy Sayers words, there is the Book as Thought, the Book as Written, and the Book as Read.
Moving on from this introduction to artful reading, the authors consider what literature is in its different kinds. They note with sadness the shift from “literature” to “texts” in contemporary literary studies, but maintain the language of literature, distinguishing it from expository writing as concerned with the concrete rather than the abstract. The axiom of literature is to “show, not tell.” They further describe literature as experiential, concrete, universal, interpretive, and artistic. They defend the importance of literature as a portrayal of human experience, for seeing ideas rightly, and for the enjoyment of beauty. It transports us into imagined worlds, giving us renewed perspective on our own as well as refreshment.
They consider how we read different types of literature: story, poetry, novels, fantasy, children’s books, creative non-fiction and the Bible as a literary work. I so valued their simple instruction for poetry–slow down! In the reading of fantasy, they distinguish between escape and escapism, noting with C.S. Lewis that reading is always an escape, but one that ought give fresh perspective on the human condition. They address how to choose good books for children and the vital importance of reading and talking about books together.
The last part of the book returns to the recovery of the art of reading. Fundamentally, we recover by discovering good books and the good, the true, and the beautiful within them. We discern and assess the truth-claims in a book. We consider the moral perspective of the book–does it make the good or the evil attractive and who is valorized? We notice the use of language to point toward beauty, and the beautiful God. They describe excellence in beginnings, middles and ends.
All of this only makes sense in the context of our reading choices. They encourage us to embrace our freedom to read and observe in very practical terms the time thieves that rob us of precious hours. They consider how we choose good books and the role good literature plays in creativity and in one’s spiritual life.
I think one of the most valuable aspects of this book is the encouragement of leisurely, slow, and reflective engagement with good works, whatever their genre. They help us attend to plot, character, setting, and behind all this, the perspective of the author and the insights we gain into our common human condition. Their invitation to be participants in the work with the author while continuing to discern strikes a good balance.
I would have liked to see some book recommendations for those wanting to recover the art. Certainly, the authors mention books throughout, and the ones mentioned are worthwhile, but some bibliographies might have helped. Also while the authors discuss goodness and evil in literature, they don’t discuss beauty and ugliness, only beauty. The ugliness of the post-nuclear world in Cormac McCarthy’s The Road is a crucial offset to the beauty of the love of father and son. Sometimes, Christian literature seems too beautiful, in ways trite and artificial. The beauty and the healing comfort of Lothlorien gains its power from the horrors of Moria and the loss of Gandalf.
Those who practice any art always have a sense they could be better at their art. Reading is also an art. This book reminded me of ways I may be ever-improving at that art. I can work to remove the distractions to attentive reading. I may slow down, especially to savor a poem. I may re-read great works. I may attend to the story and the questions it opens up about the universal human condition. I may allow the book to enlarge my perspective if I give myself to it both attentively and discerningly, both open and observant. Ryken and Mathes invite us, whether the neophyte or the seasoned reader, to an ever-growing practice of the art of reading. After all, it is not how much, but how well we read.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 5, 2025
“Recovering the Lost Art of Reading” is a book for all types of readers, whether we read often or infrequently, whether casually or academically. It seeks to “dispel the notion of reading as duty and instill the concept of reading as delight,” whether in our reading of books or the Bible.
The chapters that follow aim to inspire us to both read and to savor as we read. I was inspired to read attentively and at length because of the inspiration I gleaned in the content of each chapter, and also through the reminders that our world is so disheveled by the distractions of social media and digital devices. The book points out that, on average across all generations, we spend several hours a day on our mobile devices but not even an hour reading books.
The book led me to better know what writing styles draw me in most and moved me to delve into others I rarely do. I really enjoyed the chapter on creative nonfiction as it gave insight into how books such as memoirs are written even when dialogue from the past can’t be recalled verbatim.
Highlights:
“We know God wants us to have literature in our lives because he has revealed himself to the human race in a book that is primarily literary in nature.”
“If we . . . have forgotten how to read, we've lost more than delight in literary treasures. We've lost the ability to read the Bible consistently and attentively. What then happens to our relationship with God?”
“Too often, the Internet and modern advertising fill our minds and imaginations with images of the cheap and tawdry. Literature and the arts can enlarge our spirits with images of greatness and beauty.”
“This imaginative world is not only a beneficial holiday from life, but it is also a roadmap that may help us chart our course in daily life.”
“Most people who catch a vision for the literary approach to the Bible uniformly speak of how it rejuvenates their interest and joy in Bible reading...”
There were so many more I could have included for their inspiration, wisdom, or insight into reading well!
Total: 4.25
Readability: 4
Impact: 4
Content: 5
Enjoyment: 4
Thank you to Crossway for gifting me a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
The chapters that follow aim to inspire us to both read and to savor as we read. I was inspired to read attentively and at length because of the inspiration I gleaned in the content of each chapter, and also through the reminders that our world is so disheveled by the distractions of social media and digital devices. The book points out that, on average across all generations, we spend several hours a day on our mobile devices but not even an hour reading books.
The book led me to better know what writing styles draw me in most and moved me to delve into others I rarely do. I really enjoyed the chapter on creative nonfiction as it gave insight into how books such as memoirs are written even when dialogue from the past can’t be recalled verbatim.
Highlights:
“We know God wants us to have literature in our lives because he has revealed himself to the human race in a book that is primarily literary in nature.”
“If we . . . have forgotten how to read, we've lost more than delight in literary treasures. We've lost the ability to read the Bible consistently and attentively. What then happens to our relationship with God?”
“Too often, the Internet and modern advertising fill our minds and imaginations with images of the cheap and tawdry. Literature and the arts can enlarge our spirits with images of greatness and beauty.”
“This imaginative world is not only a beneficial holiday from life, but it is also a roadmap that may help us chart our course in daily life.”
“Most people who catch a vision for the literary approach to the Bible uniformly speak of how it rejuvenates their interest and joy in Bible reading...”
There were so many more I could have included for their inspiration, wisdom, or insight into reading well!
Total: 4.25
Readability: 4
Impact: 4
Content: 5
Enjoyment: 4
Thank you to Crossway for gifting me a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
March 14, 2021
Having grown up on a small farm in a small town in Connecticut, I thought two hundred miles away from home was a long way. Where then did my love for travel come from? While reading Ryken and Mathes’ book, I began thinking about the question, and I believe my love of travel came from reading, specifically reading biographies of individuals who spent their lives in faraway places.
Reading has an impact on our lives, so how we read, along with what we read, is important. The authors’ premise is that we need to recover the lost art of reading physical books. Today the internet dominates our reading time, but only provides snippets of information and much of it, in a disconnected way. Books, on the other hand, can fill the mind and heart with wonder and awe.
Recovering the Lost Art of Reading is divided into three parts. The first part deals with reading in general and how to read specific types of literature. The second part looks at the concepts of truth, goodness (morally uplifting), and beauty, and how they apply to a good book. The final part addresses the issues of the author’s calling and creativity, along with how literature should impact our spiritual life.
Two other authors, Adler and Van Doren, have written a classic on the subject of reading (How to Read a Book: The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading). There is some overlap between the two books, but both can be read for great value.
I enjoyed and found profitable Ryken and Mathes’ practical suggestions on reading and finding specific types of books, i.e. non-fiction, fiction, children’s literature, etc. Now I will think through how to incorporate their ideas and suggestions into my own teaching.
Crossway was kind enough to provide me a copy of the book in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
Reading has an impact on our lives, so how we read, along with what we read, is important. The authors’ premise is that we need to recover the lost art of reading physical books. Today the internet dominates our reading time, but only provides snippets of information and much of it, in a disconnected way. Books, on the other hand, can fill the mind and heart with wonder and awe.
Recovering the Lost Art of Reading is divided into three parts. The first part deals with reading in general and how to read specific types of literature. The second part looks at the concepts of truth, goodness (morally uplifting), and beauty, and how they apply to a good book. The final part addresses the issues of the author’s calling and creativity, along with how literature should impact our spiritual life.
Two other authors, Adler and Van Doren, have written a classic on the subject of reading (How to Read a Book: The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading). There is some overlap between the two books, but both can be read for great value.
I enjoyed and found profitable Ryken and Mathes’ practical suggestions on reading and finding specific types of books, i.e. non-fiction, fiction, children’s literature, etc. Now I will think through how to incorporate their ideas and suggestions into my own teaching.
Crossway was kind enough to provide me a copy of the book in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
March 4, 2021
Leland Ryken, Professor of English emeritus at Wheaton College, teams up with author and editor Glenda Faye Mathes in this guidebook designed to help readers (and those who are not) “discover more delight in the reading journey.” The book is organized into three parts. In Part One, the authors seek to establish that reading is, in fact, a lost art. Ryken and Mathes decry the decline of the reading of literature as increasing amounts of time are spent reading other forms of text (a term the authors contend is a contemporary catch-all encompassing much that is not actually “read.”) They also explain why reading can be considered an “art.” In Part 2, the authors define literature and show the varied ways literature enriches a person’s life. Then they present several genres, including poetry, novels, fantasy, children’s books, and creative nonfiction. The genre-focused chapters define the genre’s traits, show the benefits to the reader, and provide specific tips for how to read and interpret the genre. Part 2 concludes with a section on reading the Bible as literature. In Part 3 the authors share their vision for recovering the “lost art” of reading.
Whether or not a reader of this book agrees with the authors’ contention that reading texts other than literature lacks sufficient depth to be read “artfully,” there is much here of value. While many (perhaps most!) adults regard reading literature as a long-ago school task they do not care to revisit, the benefits described in this book may well entice even the reluctant reader to head to the local library in search of the pleasures of “deep” reading. Part 2, as informative as it is enticing, provides enough specific information to instill confidence that even a genre like poetry is accessible by the average reader.
Ryken and Mathes show that when we read the Bible deeply, being mindful of the literary aspect of God’s Word, we see that just as good literature paints a portrait of the human condition, the Bible’s varied literary qualities paint a divinely-inspired portrait of humanity. For the follower of Christ who engages—or wants to engage—in regular reading of the Bible, this book is a treasure that will further open up the truth and beauty of Scripture.
Whether or not a reader of this book agrees with the authors’ contention that reading texts other than literature lacks sufficient depth to be read “artfully,” there is much here of value. While many (perhaps most!) adults regard reading literature as a long-ago school task they do not care to revisit, the benefits described in this book may well entice even the reluctant reader to head to the local library in search of the pleasures of “deep” reading. Part 2, as informative as it is enticing, provides enough specific information to instill confidence that even a genre like poetry is accessible by the average reader.
Ryken and Mathes show that when we read the Bible deeply, being mindful of the literary aspect of God’s Word, we see that just as good literature paints a portrait of the human condition, the Bible’s varied literary qualities paint a divinely-inspired portrait of humanity. For the follower of Christ who engages—or wants to engage—in regular reading of the Bible, this book is a treasure that will further open up the truth and beauty of Scripture.
December 17, 2022
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book! It was full of literary gems, interesting information and useful advice. I would recommend it to any Christian reader, or even 'non-reader' - you'll learn a lot from it.
I really enjoyed this book! It was full of literary gems, interesting information and useful advice. I would recommend it to any Christian reader, or even 'non-reader' - you'll learn a lot from it.
Want to read
March 23, 2021Related article here.
June 14, 2023
More of an encouragement to read more. The intended audience seems to be those who don’t read at all.
March 1, 2021
Leland Ryken has turned to this subject a variety of times (in books like his series on reading different books of the Bible as literature), and always finds a way to capture his points in the simplest language without seeming bland or unemotional. Here, he and Glenda Faye Mathes take that approach again, and the result is great. They show why reading is important, how to understand different kinds of genres. and throughout show how faith makes the reading of good stories into a soul-making, wisdom-producing process.
October 18, 2021
Rest and Read
A book on the importance of and necessity for reading great books. This is a great, inspirational read that will stimulate your desire to search out good literary works and make the time to rest and read them.
A few quotes from the book...
In his inimitable way, Lewis sums up reading good books: “But in reading great literature I become a thousand men and yet remain myself. . . . Here, as in worship, in love, in moral action, and in knowing, I transcend myself; and am never more myself than when I do.”
"Why are we reading, if not in hope of beauty laid bare, life heightened and its deepest mystery probed? Can the writer isolate and vivify all in experience that most deeply engages our intellects and our hearts? Can the writer renew our hope for literary forms? Why are we reading if not in hope that the writer will magnify and dramatize our days, will illuminate and inspire us with wisdom, courage, and the possibility of meaningfulness, and will press upon our minds the deepest mysteries, so we may feel again their majesty and power?" Annie Dillard. "We suggest you read what she has written again, slowly. Few people can express more beautifully the essence of why we read literature."
C. S. Lewis writes, "Those of us who have been true readers all our life seldom fully realize the enormous extension of our being which we owe to authors. We realize it best when we talk with an unliterary friend. He may be full of goodness and good sense but he inhabits a tiny world." Lewis makes the bold claim that a lack of reading limits a person’s vision and experience.
“A man who has lived in many places is not likely to be deceived by the local errors of his native village; the [person who knows the past] has lived in many times and is therefore in some degree immune from the great cataract of nonsense that pours from the press and the microphone of his own age.”
A book on the importance of and necessity for reading great books. This is a great, inspirational read that will stimulate your desire to search out good literary works and make the time to rest and read them.
A few quotes from the book...
In his inimitable way, Lewis sums up reading good books: “But in reading great literature I become a thousand men and yet remain myself. . . . Here, as in worship, in love, in moral action, and in knowing, I transcend myself; and am never more myself than when I do.”
"Why are we reading, if not in hope of beauty laid bare, life heightened and its deepest mystery probed? Can the writer isolate and vivify all in experience that most deeply engages our intellects and our hearts? Can the writer renew our hope for literary forms? Why are we reading if not in hope that the writer will magnify and dramatize our days, will illuminate and inspire us with wisdom, courage, and the possibility of meaningfulness, and will press upon our minds the deepest mysteries, so we may feel again their majesty and power?" Annie Dillard. "We suggest you read what she has written again, slowly. Few people can express more beautifully the essence of why we read literature."
C. S. Lewis writes, "Those of us who have been true readers all our life seldom fully realize the enormous extension of our being which we owe to authors. We realize it best when we talk with an unliterary friend. He may be full of goodness and good sense but he inhabits a tiny world." Lewis makes the bold claim that a lack of reading limits a person’s vision and experience.
“A man who has lived in many places is not likely to be deceived by the local errors of his native village; the [person who knows the past] has lived in many times and is therefore in some degree immune from the great cataract of nonsense that pours from the press and the microphone of his own age.”
May 27, 2021
Is reading a lost art? Leland Ryan and Glenda Faye Mathes address this in their book, Recovering the Lost Art of Reading. Quoting from incredible authors and thinkers of our time, the authors take a fairly academic approach to addressing everything from why reading as an art has been lost, to what literature is, and how to recover the beauty and freedom found in excellent literature. The authors expound upon the value of stories, poems, novels, fantasy, children's books, creative nonfiction, and most interestingly describe how we must read the Bible as literature. I was convicted, encouraged and comforted. I highly recommend! Thank you @crosswaybooks for the complimentary copy.
"The decline of reading has led to the loss of the stabilizing influence and enriching treasures from the past. They speak with an outside voice into the repressive tyranny of the secular and politically-correct present."
"Most readers do not perceive literature as a potential ally in living morally because our education and culture do not train us to look for its moral dimension. Being aware of literature's moral ingredient is the first step. We need to identify the nature of both moral and immoral literary examples. Having named the virtues and vices displayed in a work, we should resolve to imitate the virtues and repudiate the vices. That is not, as sometimes claimed, a simplistic approach to literature; it is demonstrably how literature works."
"The decline of reading has led to the loss of the stabilizing influence and enriching treasures from the past. They speak with an outside voice into the repressive tyranny of the secular and politically-correct present."
"Most readers do not perceive literature as a potential ally in living morally because our education and culture do not train us to look for its moral dimension. Being aware of literature's moral ingredient is the first step. We need to identify the nature of both moral and immoral literary examples. Having named the virtues and vices displayed in a work, we should resolve to imitate the virtues and repudiate the vices. That is not, as sometimes claimed, a simplistic approach to literature; it is demonstrably how literature works."
February 28, 2021
"Scripture does more than sanction literature; it shows us that literature is indispensable in knowing and communicating our most important truth."
This is one of my favourite quotes from the book. As an English Literature graduate, I've feel that a lot of the Bible reading in my local church and even popular Evangelical content available online is often too "scientific" or "systematic."
Recapturing the literariness of the Bible, and more broadly, appreciating the benefits of reading literature to our spiritual lives are two of the authors' goals in this book. Overall, I'd say Recovering the Lost Art of Reading achieves the latter objective while offering just a few thoughts on the former.
This book has three parts. In Part 1, the authors make a case that practical reading (primarily to gain information) and shallow "online reading" (Chapter 1: Is Reading Lost?) have largely displaced "artful reading" (Chapter 3: Why Consider Reading an Art?), which the authors describe as slow reading, where one is receptive to a book's message and beauty, being attentive to its content and form. They identify a few things individuals and the wider culture loses as a result of the decline of deeper modes of reading (Chapter 2: What Have We Lost?).
In Part 2, they offer a definition of "literature" (chapters 4-6) before outlining the unique elements of seven "types" of literature (chapters 7-13): stories, poems, novels, fantasy, children's books, creative nonfiction and the Bible as literature. Within each type, they offer suggestions on how to approach or enjoy one's reading.
Part 3 steps back from considering individual genre, suggesting ways Christians can identify the true (Chapter 15: Truth in Literature), the good (Chapter 16: Moral Vision in Literature), and the beautiful (Chapter 17: Beauty in Literature). A few chapters explore supporting themes, including a defence of reading as an appropriate leisure activity (Chapter 19: Freedom to Read) and the relationship between a writer's calling and creativity and how readers are involved in that process (Chapter 21: Calling and Creativity).
What I enjoyed
This book was a joy to read, especially the first six chapters. I wholeheartedly agree that there is a reading problem, that much reading now is about gathering information. Content proliferation has meant that it's probably much easier to stumble on something bad than on what's good. They make a strong case that everyone, especially Christians, "people of the book(!)," should recover artful reading.
It's also worth noting that there is no specific or tangible benefits to reading literature. I say this because I know that if I don't get some kind of "value" out of my reading, I do struggle with whether it's worth it. One of the zeitgeist of our age is pragmatism, and we try to meticulously measure the cost and benefits of our actions. Without being glib, the authors show that this pragmatism isn't without its problems, and that leisurely, deep reading can bring fun and order to our lives.
The book is easy reading with relatively short chapters. The authors are concise, punchy and humorous. They quote quite extensively in some chapters as examples or to strengthen the points they make, but don't allow footnotes or name-dropping to get in the way. As an introduction to the joys of reading, this is a thoughtfully written work.
There is a risk that writing about reading (or books) is like preaching to the choir, but the authors should be commended for making this book accessible. Practising what they preached about showing rather than telling, their tone is gentle and conversational, rather than feeling I was being talked at.
What could make this better?
Unfortunately, this accessibility is also the book's weakness. I found sections of Parts 2 and 3 too shallow. The authors aren't saying something completely original, they draw heavily from C. S. Lewis and "pre-modern" literary theories. This is not surprising, given they write from within a Christian framework, but I was looking forward to a more robust theory.
I was also hoping that they would give recommended reading in Part 2 when describing the unique features of each "type" of literature. If this book is largely written to convince a non-reading segment to take up a book to read, I think offering suggestions would be helpful. They did mention in Part 3 that it's difficult to recommend titles, however, if space doesn't permit, they could have a list of the authors' top picks on a website.
Who should read it?
I'd say two groups of people: 1) those who have tasted the sweetness of reading good literature but has been swept away (momentarily) by today's busyness and pragmatism; 2) those who perhaps haven't been an avid reader, but find they need a break from screens.
Artful, thoughtful, receptive reading of literature can expand our minds because we experience the joys and sufferings of others vicariously; it can deepen our spiritual lives as they show us the true, the good, and the beautiful; and it can give us a greater appreciation for the Bible as God's creative and wonderful story of salvific love.
I was graciously given an advance review copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
This is one of my favourite quotes from the book. As an English Literature graduate, I've feel that a lot of the Bible reading in my local church and even popular Evangelical content available online is often too "scientific" or "systematic."
Recapturing the literariness of the Bible, and more broadly, appreciating the benefits of reading literature to our spiritual lives are two of the authors' goals in this book. Overall, I'd say Recovering the Lost Art of Reading achieves the latter objective while offering just a few thoughts on the former.
This book has three parts. In Part 1, the authors make a case that practical reading (primarily to gain information) and shallow "online reading" (Chapter 1: Is Reading Lost?) have largely displaced "artful reading" (Chapter 3: Why Consider Reading an Art?), which the authors describe as slow reading, where one is receptive to a book's message and beauty, being attentive to its content and form. They identify a few things individuals and the wider culture loses as a result of the decline of deeper modes of reading (Chapter 2: What Have We Lost?).
In Part 2, they offer a definition of "literature" (chapters 4-6) before outlining the unique elements of seven "types" of literature (chapters 7-13): stories, poems, novels, fantasy, children's books, creative nonfiction and the Bible as literature. Within each type, they offer suggestions on how to approach or enjoy one's reading.
Part 3 steps back from considering individual genre, suggesting ways Christians can identify the true (Chapter 15: Truth in Literature), the good (Chapter 16: Moral Vision in Literature), and the beautiful (Chapter 17: Beauty in Literature). A few chapters explore supporting themes, including a defence of reading as an appropriate leisure activity (Chapter 19: Freedom to Read) and the relationship between a writer's calling and creativity and how readers are involved in that process (Chapter 21: Calling and Creativity).
What I enjoyed
This book was a joy to read, especially the first six chapters. I wholeheartedly agree that there is a reading problem, that much reading now is about gathering information. Content proliferation has meant that it's probably much easier to stumble on something bad than on what's good. They make a strong case that everyone, especially Christians, "people of the book(!)," should recover artful reading.
It's also worth noting that there is no specific or tangible benefits to reading literature. I say this because I know that if I don't get some kind of "value" out of my reading, I do struggle with whether it's worth it. One of the zeitgeist of our age is pragmatism, and we try to meticulously measure the cost and benefits of our actions. Without being glib, the authors show that this pragmatism isn't without its problems, and that leisurely, deep reading can bring fun and order to our lives.
The book is easy reading with relatively short chapters. The authors are concise, punchy and humorous. They quote quite extensively in some chapters as examples or to strengthen the points they make, but don't allow footnotes or name-dropping to get in the way. As an introduction to the joys of reading, this is a thoughtfully written work.
There is a risk that writing about reading (or books) is like preaching to the choir, but the authors should be commended for making this book accessible. Practising what they preached about showing rather than telling, their tone is gentle and conversational, rather than feeling I was being talked at.
What could make this better?
Unfortunately, this accessibility is also the book's weakness. I found sections of Parts 2 and 3 too shallow. The authors aren't saying something completely original, they draw heavily from C. S. Lewis and "pre-modern" literary theories. This is not surprising, given they write from within a Christian framework, but I was looking forward to a more robust theory.
I was also hoping that they would give recommended reading in Part 2 when describing the unique features of each "type" of literature. If this book is largely written to convince a non-reading segment to take up a book to read, I think offering suggestions would be helpful. They did mention in Part 3 that it's difficult to recommend titles, however, if space doesn't permit, they could have a list of the authors' top picks on a website.
Who should read it?
I'd say two groups of people: 1) those who have tasted the sweetness of reading good literature but has been swept away (momentarily) by today's busyness and pragmatism; 2) those who perhaps haven't been an avid reader, but find they need a break from screens.
Artful, thoughtful, receptive reading of literature can expand our minds because we experience the joys and sufferings of others vicariously; it can deepen our spiritual lives as they show us the true, the good, and the beautiful; and it can give us a greater appreciation for the Bible as God's creative and wonderful story of salvific love.
I was graciously given an advance review copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
I love to read.
I always have loved reading - from the time I was a little girl I have always had my nose in a book. Sometimes to my detriment; I've tripped more times than I care to count because I was trying to read and walk at the same time.
I also love books about books and reading, so I was very excited to dive into "Recovering the Lost Art of Reading" by Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes, which I received as a part of the Crossway Book Review program.
I was not disappointed.
Ryken & Mathes' book is an insightful exploration into the transformative power of reading, blending literary critique with spiritual guidance. This book is not just a call to return to reading but an invitation to rediscover the depth, freedom, and joy that comes from engaging deeply with texts. Part of their thesis that I found as a good reminder to myself is the importance of selecting good books. Ryken and Mathes advocate for discernment in reading choices, urging readers to seek out works that are not only well-written but also enriching and edifying. They provide practical advice on how to identify literature that will stand the test of time, literature that challenges, inspires, and educates.
A significant portion of the book is devoted to the spiritual dimensions of reading. Ryken and Mathes explore how reading can be a form of spiritual discipline, enhancing one’s understanding of biblical texts and deepening one’s faith. They highlight the value of incorporating biblical principles into reading practices, suggesting that approaching literature with a biblical worldview can enrich the reading experience and provide profound insights into human nature and the divine.
The authors draw from a wealth of biblical references, illustrating how scripture encourages the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge through reading. They suggest that reading, when done thoughtfully and with discernment, can be a means of experiencing God's truth and beauty. This adds a rich layer to their advocacy for reading, presenting it not just as an intellectual activity but as a holistic practice that nurtures the soul.
One of my favorite chapters in the book addressed the freedom to read - I walked away from that section refreshed and renewed in my commitment to spend time reading without allowing the nagging guilt that sometimes creeps into my reading time to disrupt it - thoughts like "I should be getting something done" and "Is this the wisest use of my time?"; and even "I'm not learning anything profound from this book, I'm just enjoying it - is that wrong?" Recovering the Lost Art of Reading argues that true reading allows individuals to break free from the shallow engagement typical of digital media, providing a space for contemplation and deeper understanding. This freedom is not just about leisure but about liberating the mind and spirit and fostering intellectual and emotional growth.
"Recovering the Lost Art of Reading" is a compelling call for a return to thoughtful, intentional reading. Ryken and Mathes blend literary analysis, practical advice, and spiritual insight to create a guide that is both inspirational and practical - and well worth the time to read.
I always have loved reading - from the time I was a little girl I have always had my nose in a book. Sometimes to my detriment; I've tripped more times than I care to count because I was trying to read and walk at the same time.
I also love books about books and reading, so I was very excited to dive into "Recovering the Lost Art of Reading" by Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes, which I received as a part of the Crossway Book Review program.
I was not disappointed.
Ryken & Mathes' book is an insightful exploration into the transformative power of reading, blending literary critique with spiritual guidance. This book is not just a call to return to reading but an invitation to rediscover the depth, freedom, and joy that comes from engaging deeply with texts. Part of their thesis that I found as a good reminder to myself is the importance of selecting good books. Ryken and Mathes advocate for discernment in reading choices, urging readers to seek out works that are not only well-written but also enriching and edifying. They provide practical advice on how to identify literature that will stand the test of time, literature that challenges, inspires, and educates.
A significant portion of the book is devoted to the spiritual dimensions of reading. Ryken and Mathes explore how reading can be a form of spiritual discipline, enhancing one’s understanding of biblical texts and deepening one’s faith. They highlight the value of incorporating biblical principles into reading practices, suggesting that approaching literature with a biblical worldview can enrich the reading experience and provide profound insights into human nature and the divine.
The authors draw from a wealth of biblical references, illustrating how scripture encourages the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge through reading. They suggest that reading, when done thoughtfully and with discernment, can be a means of experiencing God's truth and beauty. This adds a rich layer to their advocacy for reading, presenting it not just as an intellectual activity but as a holistic practice that nurtures the soul.
One of my favorite chapters in the book addressed the freedom to read - I walked away from that section refreshed and renewed in my commitment to spend time reading without allowing the nagging guilt that sometimes creeps into my reading time to disrupt it - thoughts like "I should be getting something done" and "Is this the wisest use of my time?"; and even "I'm not learning anything profound from this book, I'm just enjoying it - is that wrong?" Recovering the Lost Art of Reading argues that true reading allows individuals to break free from the shallow engagement typical of digital media, providing a space for contemplation and deeper understanding. This freedom is not just about leisure but about liberating the mind and spirit and fostering intellectual and emotional growth.
"Recovering the Lost Art of Reading" is a compelling call for a return to thoughtful, intentional reading. Ryken and Mathes blend literary analysis, practical advice, and spiritual insight to create a guide that is both inspirational and practical - and well worth the time to read.
April 24, 2021
In this book, literature professor Leland Ryken joins with writer and speaker Glenda Faye Mathes to encourage Christians to recover healthy reading habits in a digital age. In the first part of the book, they explain why reading has become a lost art, and in the following section, they explain what literature is, why it matters, and what it offers us. They share advice for how readers can get the most out of different genres, understanding their unique natures and appreciating the ways that they speak to human experience and deeper truths. They write about stories, novels, poetry, fantasy, children’s books, and creative nonfiction, and they also write about the importance of reading the Bible with literary understanding. In the third part of the book, they address different concerns related to discernment, making time to read, and enriching one’s spiritual life through literature.
This book is full of wonderful advice for Christians who want to develop a deeper appreciation of literature. The authors filter everything through their worldview in a natural, seamless way, drawing on biblical truths and literary perspectives to support their various points. They also address specific concerns for Christian audiences, defending the value of leisure, providing perspectives on content discernment, addressing the pitfalls and value of Christian fiction, and emphasizing the importance of reading Scripture and having a deep moral vision for life. However, someone who does not share the authors’ faith could also benefit from this book. As long as they are comfortable with a deeply faith-based approach, non-Christian readers can benefit from the authors’ advice for understanding different literary forms, cultivating a reading life, and developing a deeper taste and appreciation for truly good books.
The writing is clear and articulate, with lots of concrete and personal examples, and the authors do not fall into vague phrasing or overly academic language. However, the book’s structure, tone, and seriousness befit a reading for an English literature course, and someone who does not read much is unlikely to make it through this book. Committed readers will find this encouraging and helpful, but I’m not sure that this book can reach part of its intended audience. People who rarely pick up a book will find this intimidating, and will only get through the book if they are very determined. I don’t think that the authors should have sacrificed the book’s depth, range, and wisdom to appeal to a more passive, less interested audience, but this is primarily for committed readers and use in Christian classrooms.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book is full of wonderful advice for Christians who want to develop a deeper appreciation of literature. The authors filter everything through their worldview in a natural, seamless way, drawing on biblical truths and literary perspectives to support their various points. They also address specific concerns for Christian audiences, defending the value of leisure, providing perspectives on content discernment, addressing the pitfalls and value of Christian fiction, and emphasizing the importance of reading Scripture and having a deep moral vision for life. However, someone who does not share the authors’ faith could also benefit from this book. As long as they are comfortable with a deeply faith-based approach, non-Christian readers can benefit from the authors’ advice for understanding different literary forms, cultivating a reading life, and developing a deeper taste and appreciation for truly good books.
The writing is clear and articulate, with lots of concrete and personal examples, and the authors do not fall into vague phrasing or overly academic language. However, the book’s structure, tone, and seriousness befit a reading for an English literature course, and someone who does not read much is unlikely to make it through this book. Committed readers will find this encouraging and helpful, but I’m not sure that this book can reach part of its intended audience. People who rarely pick up a book will find this intimidating, and will only get through the book if they are very determined. I don’t think that the authors should have sacrificed the book’s depth, range, and wisdom to appeal to a more passive, less interested audience, but this is primarily for committed readers and use in Christian classrooms.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2021
I received a copy of this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book for a readathon which I thought was the perfect choice. It’s very sad how many people don’t read, or don’t read often. I know most people read fiction. I’m one of the odd ones out for that. However even though I prefer nonfiction I still encourage people to read fiction too.
“Surveys consistently show that most people believe reading is a worthwhile use of time and they should do more of it. But some people don’t read any books. Gene Edward Veith Jr. writes: ‘A growing problem is illiteracy – many people do not know how to read. A more severe problem, though is ‘aliteracy’ – a vast number of problem know how to read but never do it.” Most of us could (and suspect we should) read more and read better.”
Recovering the Lost Art of Reading pg 17
I have always read. At age 5 or 6 I learned to read and I never looked back. I read fiction back then too and I can’t imagine NOT reading. I go though stages of reading more and reading less but I always read.
How the Book is Divided
The book covers three main topics:
Reading is a Lost Art
Reading Literature
Recovering the Art of Reading
The first section talks about reading and how it’s taken a back burner to electronics such as video games and smart phones. The quote above is from this section. Also discussed is why considering reading an art?
The second section talks about different types of literature. First what is literature is discussed as well as why does it matter and what does it have to offer. Then different types of literature is discussed. Specifically what counts as that type, what it has to offer and tips on reading that type. The types discussed are stories, poems, novels, fantasy, children’s books, creative nonfiction and the Bible as literature.
The third section talks about truth and beauty in literature as well as discovering literary excellence. Also freedom to read, reading good books and literature and the spiritual life.
It was overall a great book, very interesting. You will definitely want to be Christian to read it though.
I read this book for a readathon which I thought was the perfect choice. It’s very sad how many people don’t read, or don’t read often. I know most people read fiction. I’m one of the odd ones out for that. However even though I prefer nonfiction I still encourage people to read fiction too.
“Surveys consistently show that most people believe reading is a worthwhile use of time and they should do more of it. But some people don’t read any books. Gene Edward Veith Jr. writes: ‘A growing problem is illiteracy – many people do not know how to read. A more severe problem, though is ‘aliteracy’ – a vast number of problem know how to read but never do it.” Most of us could (and suspect we should) read more and read better.”
Recovering the Lost Art of Reading pg 17
I have always read. At age 5 or 6 I learned to read and I never looked back. I read fiction back then too and I can’t imagine NOT reading. I go though stages of reading more and reading less but I always read.
How the Book is Divided
The book covers three main topics:
Reading is a Lost Art
Reading Literature
Recovering the Art of Reading
The first section talks about reading and how it’s taken a back burner to electronics such as video games and smart phones. The quote above is from this section. Also discussed is why considering reading an art?
The second section talks about different types of literature. First what is literature is discussed as well as why does it matter and what does it have to offer. Then different types of literature is discussed. Specifically what counts as that type, what it has to offer and tips on reading that type. The types discussed are stories, poems, novels, fantasy, children’s books, creative nonfiction and the Bible as literature.
The third section talks about truth and beauty in literature as well as discovering literary excellence. Also freedom to read, reading good books and literature and the spiritual life.
It was overall a great book, very interesting. You will definitely want to be Christian to read it though.
November 21, 2021
Few books have kindled my love of reading as much as this one. From logical arguments to careful theological reasoning, the authors take care to lead the reader by the hand to the conclusion that reading is one more way (and a necessity) of living out our Christianity. Reading is not just a skill, nor just a habit. Reading is an art in which the reader participates actively and in doing so finds tremendous benefits.
The book itself is organized in a great way. It consists of three parts. First, the authors explain the problem. What happened? At what point did humanity stop reading good books? How has the internet and technology contributed to this problem? Where did we get lost? Second, the authors convincingly argue for a definition of literature that emphasizes the good, true, and beautiful, which is instead compatible with the Bible. Finally, the authors provide the reader with practical tools to recover this endangered art.
Thus, no end is loose, and the questions that the reader may be asking while he reads, most likely will all be answered at the end.
Among the most positive things about the book is that it applies all the proposed concepts and ideas to Scripture, and takes these ideas from Scripture. So, in the end, it shows that the art (and not just the skill) of reading is something that while everyone can enjoy as God's image bearers, Christians will especially enjoy. It is our own Christianity and its presuppositions that provide added value to reading.
Perhaps the only negative element of the book is its length. Of course, this won't be a problem for an avid reader (who I recommend reading this book as a goal before the year is out), but it will be a problem for someone who picks up the book hoping to slowly read more and more. While it is true that the art of reading is one that is perfected with practice, practice still starts from low to high, and 260 (+) pages may not be the best place to start. Anyway, my recommendation is that this book be in the library of every good reader of books, every teacher, every seminary student, and everyone who wants to teach the Bible.
I want to thank Crossway for providing me with a copy of this book.
The book itself is organized in a great way. It consists of three parts. First, the authors explain the problem. What happened? At what point did humanity stop reading good books? How has the internet and technology contributed to this problem? Where did we get lost? Second, the authors convincingly argue for a definition of literature that emphasizes the good, true, and beautiful, which is instead compatible with the Bible. Finally, the authors provide the reader with practical tools to recover this endangered art.
Thus, no end is loose, and the questions that the reader may be asking while he reads, most likely will all be answered at the end.
Among the most positive things about the book is that it applies all the proposed concepts and ideas to Scripture, and takes these ideas from Scripture. So, in the end, it shows that the art (and not just the skill) of reading is something that while everyone can enjoy as God's image bearers, Christians will especially enjoy. It is our own Christianity and its presuppositions that provide added value to reading.
Perhaps the only negative element of the book is its length. Of course, this won't be a problem for an avid reader (who I recommend reading this book as a goal before the year is out), but it will be a problem for someone who picks up the book hoping to slowly read more and more. While it is true that the art of reading is one that is perfected with practice, practice still starts from low to high, and 260 (+) pages may not be the best place to start. Anyway, my recommendation is that this book be in the library of every good reader of books, every teacher, every seminary student, and everyone who wants to teach the Bible.
I want to thank Crossway for providing me with a copy of this book.
March 28, 2021
Our reading habits are changing. While we may be reading more articles and social media posts, our reading of literature is in decline. In 2018 the Pew Charitable Foundation reported that nearly a quarter of Americans had not read a book in any form in the last year. Is that important? Ryken and Mathes argue it means we are loosing wisdom and our ability for deep thinking. Reading nonfiction or imaginative fiction requires thoughtful reading, unlike grazing Internet articles.
The authors hope to inspire people to read more, read well, and have more joy in doing it. They explore what literature is, what identifies good literature, and the benefits of reading literature. They help up understand the elements of a good story and why we need to read poetry. They argue that in reading artfully, we better understand ourselves and the human condition.
Understanding and reading literature is particularly important for Christians. The authors point out that a third of the Bible is written in poetic form and three quarters of the Bible is in literary form. Understanding literary principles is essential to understanding the Bible. “We would handle the Bible so much better if we would read and interpret it in light of what we already know about literature generally.” (1657/3278)
There is a great deal of useful information in the book. I appreciate the authors reminding us that every person has a calling to read and that reading literature is to be an active part of spiritual life. (2611, 2736/3278) Unfortunately, this book is somewhat academic in style. I am not sure the average reader and especially the nonreader will pick up this book and benefit from it. Perhaps teachers, pastors and small group leaders could read the book and share the information with others.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The authors hope to inspire people to read more, read well, and have more joy in doing it. They explore what literature is, what identifies good literature, and the benefits of reading literature. They help up understand the elements of a good story and why we need to read poetry. They argue that in reading artfully, we better understand ourselves and the human condition.
Understanding and reading literature is particularly important for Christians. The authors point out that a third of the Bible is written in poetic form and three quarters of the Bible is in literary form. Understanding literary principles is essential to understanding the Bible. “We would handle the Bible so much better if we would read and interpret it in light of what we already know about literature generally.” (1657/3278)
There is a great deal of useful information in the book. I appreciate the authors reminding us that every person has a calling to read and that reading literature is to be an active part of spiritual life. (2611, 2736/3278) Unfortunately, this book is somewhat academic in style. I am not sure the average reader and especially the nonreader will pick up this book and benefit from it. Perhaps teachers, pastors and small group leaders could read the book and share the information with others.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Read
July 19, 2021First, during my devotional time I read Recovering the Lost Art of Reading by Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes. I picked this one up because I was intrigued by the title, and it sounded like it would be similar to another book I really enjoyed called Lit! by Tony Reinke. While there were some similarities between the two, at least in the first part of the book, I found myself getting frustrated with some of what was stated in the book concerning reading in that there are books better than others and that only reading those kinds of books can be considered practicing the art of reading. Personally, and I say this as a former English major, I find statements like these to be arrogant. Are there books that could be considered trashy? Perhaps, but there are a lot of good books out there and the definition of a good book does tend to be subjective. Did I misread some of what they were trying to convey? Maybe. But I'm also tired of people writing about how certain books are more superior than others. I think if a person enjoys reading graphic novels, it's still reading, manga is still reading and there are some fantastic books in these categories. It is my duty to practice discernment in what I read, but other than that I do have the liberty to read what I want. The same goes for others. Sure, a cozy mystery might not have the same literary merit as a Jane Austen novel, but it is still literature and I think a lot can be learned from them. Sigh, I wanted to love this book, but I spent a good portion of it wishing I was reading a physical copy of it so I could reenact the scene from Dead Poets' Society where Mr. Keating has his class tear out the introduction from their textbook. There is some merit to this book, and it could be beneficial to others, however I think that I am no longer the target audience for books like these. I would like to thank Crossway and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 15, 2021
I'm vasilating between 3 and 4 stars. As a reader, I'm all in on a book about reading. There are some beautiful passages about the delights of reading, different genres, how to choose a good book. Many beautiful lines. I fully plan on returning to this book and reminding myself of one of my chief delights in this broken world: reading.
I appreciated that they explained how non-Christian books can be very valuable and that you shouldn't only read books you agree with. That you look at the book as whole and thinking through what we believe and why is good for us.
My hesitation, why I consider giving this 3 stars comes from the boring need for readers to trash technology and television. I'm a reader, but ultimately I love stories in any form, and I believe that a well-done TV show or video game is just as valuable, artistic, and worthwhile as a good book. I just don't buy into reading somehow being more noble a storytelling platform than all the others.
I also got a little uncomfortable at the end of the book because they seemed to elevate the craft of writing above all other art forms even to the point of saying it's basically Spirit inspired, creating a situation where it would be almost sinful for a writer allow any other calling to supercede the call to write. I think elevating writing to this level is dangerous. They also set reading and writing up so high that it almost becomes a means of grace.
So, I loved this book. I truly plan on reading it again. There is much to delve here, but I can't rate it too high for those two reasons.
I appreciated that they explained how non-Christian books can be very valuable and that you shouldn't only read books you agree with. That you look at the book as whole and thinking through what we believe and why is good for us.
My hesitation, why I consider giving this 3 stars comes from the boring need for readers to trash technology and television. I'm a reader, but ultimately I love stories in any form, and I believe that a well-done TV show or video game is just as valuable, artistic, and worthwhile as a good book. I just don't buy into reading somehow being more noble a storytelling platform than all the others.
I also got a little uncomfortable at the end of the book because they seemed to elevate the craft of writing above all other art forms even to the point of saying it's basically Spirit inspired, creating a situation where it would be almost sinful for a writer allow any other calling to supercede the call to write. I think elevating writing to this level is dangerous. They also set reading and writing up so high that it almost becomes a means of grace.
So, I loved this book. I truly plan on reading it again. There is much to delve here, but I can't rate it too high for those two reasons.
April 21, 2021
This read was a little more literary than I was expecting. Certainly insightful, informative, and (the highlight for me!) chock-full of C.S. Lewis quotes, as well as some Tolkien references!
I did feel somewhat like I'd landed back in a college-level English class and remembering anew why I decided not to pursue an English degree. :D I enjoy reading for reading's sake--sometimes to escape, other times to grow/challenge myself/learn--and the "how" (themes, metaphors, etc.) hasn't always been a big deal for me. Of course, that can vary with the book; give me Lord of the Rings and I'll talk all day about it!
This one just felt a little dry for my taste, at this stage of life. I may revisit down the line, and certainly appreciated the read--especially as it discussed the impact the Internet has had on our attention spans, ability to concentrate for longer periods, and so on. That was a very beneficial reminder, as was the encouragement to read older books--not just the contemporary/present-day ones I've been reading lately.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I did feel somewhat like I'd landed back in a college-level English class and remembering anew why I decided not to pursue an English degree. :D I enjoy reading for reading's sake--sometimes to escape, other times to grow/challenge myself/learn--and the "how" (themes, metaphors, etc.) hasn't always been a big deal for me. Of course, that can vary with the book; give me Lord of the Rings and I'll talk all day about it!
This one just felt a little dry for my taste, at this stage of life. I may revisit down the line, and certainly appreciated the read--especially as it discussed the impact the Internet has had on our attention spans, ability to concentrate for longer periods, and so on. That was a very beneficial reminder, as was the encouragement to read older books--not just the contemporary/present-day ones I've been reading lately.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Read
July 9, 2021"How should Christians read books? That’s not as simple a question to answer as it appears at first glance. Part of the reason this is a difficult question to answer is that there are a lot of different types of things to read: poetry, non-fiction, and fiction; and then different genres within each of those (as just a handful of examples). Different kinds of writing require different methods of reading even before we start to consider content and style as factors.
But the diversity of materials to read isn’t the only difficulty in play here. Another, and I think a bigger, difficulty is caused by the damage that has been done to us by the pervasive presence of electronic devices. I’m not denying that these devices have conveniences—what reasonable person could deny that? But their impact on our capacity to concentrate and retain information has been devastating. So learning how to read properly is a more critical skill than ever. Fortunately to help us along the way, Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes have written the new book Recovering the Lost Art of Reading."
Read the rest here: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/schaeff...
But the diversity of materials to read isn’t the only difficulty in play here. Another, and I think a bigger, difficulty is caused by the damage that has been done to us by the pervasive presence of electronic devices. I’m not denying that these devices have conveniences—what reasonable person could deny that? But their impact on our capacity to concentrate and retain information has been devastating. So learning how to read properly is a more critical skill than ever. Fortunately to help us along the way, Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes have written the new book Recovering the Lost Art of Reading."
Read the rest here: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/schaeff...
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