The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare | Book Review
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I wish people would write more novels like this. So okay, this is a children’s book. But it’s nowhere juvenile. “The Bronze Bow” by Elizabeht George Speare hits a bullseye.
Is it any good?
You know it’s a good book when publishers come up with a 45th Anniversary issue. You also know that it’s a substantial read when you wee the Newberry Medal on it’s cover. But you only truly know its value to your soul when the book speaks to your heart. That is how I found myself reading this book and needing to stop because I was weeping too much.
Just how good?
“The Bronze Bow” follows the story of Daniel, a teenage bandit whose deep hatred for Romans hinders him from experiencing true joy and happiness. The story is set in Galillee, Capernaum during the time of Jesus’ ministry. Daniel is working to eradicate his beloved land of the Romans, but his methods and motivations cause more harm than good. Although Jesus is not the central character of this book, I learned so much about Him. “The Bronze Bow” paints a Jesus that is so human, so real. Here is a Jesus that is far from feeble or weak. He is strong and capable, and always available. There was one passage in the book that Jesus and Daniel meet, just the two of them. I was amazed at how real Speare was able to paint Jesus. In that scene, Jesus was tired and weary after a whole day of preaching and healing, He is about to retire. Daniel is kicking himself because he lost his chance to speak to Jesus and warn Him of the dangerous men after Him. Just when Daniel has given up all hope and turns to leave, Jesus opens the door of his house and gently asks, “Who is there?” and invites Daniel in. Daniel leaves Jesus having benefited more from this conversation than Jesus did.
It did me A LOT of good.
“The Bronze Bow” speaks a universal truth that is so easy to grasp. I love it for it’s wisdom, it’s sincerity, and it’s truth. My Jesus is not merely stuck on a crucifix; remote and unreachable. He is real, has a whole array of emotions, and is always within my reach. Like Daniel, it is only my heart and my head that hinder me from experiencing true joy and happiness.
Recommended for those who want not just a Lord and Savior, but also a friend.
