Thursday, March 22, 2018

THE ROCK, THE ROAD, AND THE RABBI by Kathie Lee Gifford



This is a work of nonfiction. This book is about the author's own experiences in the land of Israel. She traveled to the areas we know as the Holy Land. These are the areas in ancient Palestine where the historical Jesus lived. The author spreads her content throughout 29 actual chapters. She begins her book with an Introduction, Preface, and Meet the Rabbi and Meet the Tour Guide. They who helped the author navigate her tour. She ends her book with a Conclusion, Going Home, Afterward, Appendix, Notes (sources consulted), and author bios (one for her and her co-author). Kathie Lee Gifford is the Emmy-winning co-host of TODAY (fourth hour). Her experiences are covered in this book. Rabbi Jason Sobel is an expert on all things Jewish. He is a spiritual guide and thought leader. He is the Founder of Fusion with Rabbi Jason, a nonprofit that help provide deeper insights into the Jewish roots of Scripture.

I have never read any of Kathie Lee Gifford's books. So I dd not know what to expect. Because of the subject matter, I expected a memoir of her experiences in the Holy Land. It is that. It is also a Rabbi's narrative about the Holy Land from his unique perspective. This book is heavy in theology and blatantly Christian. I did not expect that from a well-know TV celebrity. Kathie apparently has trusted Jesus since very early in life. She wrote in such a way that makes the reader wish that she can be in the Holy Land. Of course, Kathie Lee Gifford is wealthy and able to afford such a trip. For many of us unable to travel to the Holy Land, this is something of a vicarious experience. But no matter how well-written any book is, nothing can compare to actually being in the Holy land and experiencing it for yourself. Since many of us cannot do this, books like this are the next-best thing. IT is well-written, with texts by Gifford and Rabbi Sobel in different fonts to avoid confusion.

I recommend this book for anyone interested in the Jewish roots of Jesus and the Scripture. I recommend this book for Christians and pastors especially. I recommend this book to Jews open to finding out more about Jesus. I recommend this book for all of those among us who have Jewish friends.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for mt honest review. I wasn't required to give a positive review of this book.

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