59. The River of Grace

59. The River of Grace: A Story of John Calvin. Joyce McPherson. 1998. 180 pages. [Source: Bought] [biography, children's book, 5 stars]

First sentence: John brandished his stick in the air. "I am Sir John and I declare that I will go on a pilgrimage to the Holy City." He looked fiercely into the summer sun as he imagined a brave knight would.

The River of Grace is a children's biography of John Calvin. It opens with a young John Calvin in the year 1517 playing knights with a childhood friend, a young boy passionate about the Church and her mission. It follows him through the years, the decades, as he slowly but surely becomes a Reformer--someone who believes that the Bible should be translated into the language of the people AND read, studied, treasured above the traditions of the church and church elders. This was not an overnight transition, but a slow reckoning of convictions, of being led by the Spirit as he read and studied. 

I loved this book so much. I am SO glad that I thrifted a copy. It was written well. It was not 'dry,' 'dull,' or 'boring.' It is written as a compelling narrative. I would say that it leans towards fiction at times in that it does make use of dialogue between the characters. I think it stays true to what we know of his life and times, but, certainly it allows for some creativity in dialogue. 

© Becky Laney of Operation Actually Read Bible