Nothing Else Matters

by Patricia St. John

A powerful and moving story based on real events in bitter conflict in Lebanon. Lamia and her family are caught up in the fighting, with tragic consequences. She has a lot to understand about forgiveness and love.

Genres: Christian, Childrens, Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, War, Christian Fiction

170 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1982

About the author

Patricia Mary St. John spent 27 years as a dedicated missionary to North Africa - and was also a prolific children's writer. Her books are loved and treasured around the world; some have been turned into stirring films. Gripping adventures which cover real life issues are her hallmark.

Reviews

[Marjolein · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not even the worst book I've read for English this year ;)

[Hannah Lofthus · Rating 5 out of 5]

"We forgive because we have been forgiven, and we love because we have been loved. Lamia, did anyone ever conquer hate with hate, or darkness with deeper darkness?"

Such a powerful, wonderful story. It makes it all the more heartbreaking and impactful knowing that so many of the events in this story really did happen, and not that long ago. I highly recommend this.

[Brianna Smith Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn’t my favorite St John book that I’ve read. If you are reading with children, be warned that it features quite dark and graphic violent details about war and Moslem - Christian conflict in Lebanon. There is something refreshing about a book not shying away from reality, especially with the current state of our world.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was amazing!!! I loved the way that it linked back to a time in history where lots of fighting and stuff happened. I loved the way that the author wrote it from a third person's point of view so that when you read the book you feel like you're there. I loved the way that it was a package. It was the perfect combination of adventure, mystery, romance and comedy. Overall I think that this is the best book that I have read so far, I give it a 5+. I loved the way that the author wrote it so that it appeals to a target audience: teenagers and adults.

[Martyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first Patricia St. John book I've read. It was quite engaging in spite of its setting and theme. But I'm not really sure about the Christian side of things, whether it might not be a bit too liberal and ecumenical. It doesn't seem to ever question whether Roman Catholics are really Christians or not. Where the Christian teaching was more explicit, I wasn't convinced that its meaning was very clear. It certainly didn't seem clear enough for a non-Christian to understand it. Maybe St. John's earlier books are better on that score. I'll have to find out.

[Selah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really, really good book. I'd say as good or even better than her other books. Set during the bloody Lebanese war in the mid/late 1900's. Definitely worth reading!!

[Salinn Barth · Rating 5 out of 5]

My sister in law’s recommended this book to me.
It was so sad but such a good story! One that can definitely bring tears!

[Elaine Cathcart · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Love of God in the Midst of War

Reading this felt very timely. It gives a sense of what it's like to live in a war torn area and find hope in the Savior.

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a middle grades author, but I wasn't comfortable finishing this one on audio with my children. Too many war details. That being said, it was a beautiful ending of hope.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the story opens, 16-year-old Lamia is concerned about her twin brother Amin, and trying to shield him from their father. Amin is training to defend his Christian community from the Muslims who are threatening them as tensions build between people of the two faiths. Soon, open war breaks out...

Read my full review here.

[mirela Darau · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favourite books by patricia St john together with Star of Light and Treasures of the Snow. What impressed me was first of all the story and then the strong characters, the drama of Lamia and her tough way to maturity..

[Mandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful story of Christ's forgiveness + some very important Lebanese and Palestinian history. I love this author and though I prefer her children's fiction, I found this to be an excellent read.

[Hailey Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow...this is one of my favorite Patricia St. John books. Be prepared to cry...it's heartwrenching.

[Debora Santo · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read this book's Serbian translation titled "Ništa drugo nije važno".