I wrote “Beyond the Dead Forest” (a Christian fantasy novel full of action, adventure, and mystery) because as a Christian minister I wanted to communicate Biblical wisdom to a generation who has grown up with special effects movies, realistic video and computer games, and who often see the symbols of our faith as old-fashioned. The novel is written in such a way that the Christian community can use it in at least three important ways.
1. It can be used as inspiration and entertainment for Christian readers who want to see the power of God‘s way of doing things triumph over the enemies of kindness and love. These are a few of the comments made by adult readers. Loretta Medina says: “Beyond the Dead Forest” is one of the best books I have ever read. It is a page turner.” Kristi Burchfiel says: What a fantastic adventure! ... I will reread this again and again. Edmond P. DeRoussse says: ...a page-turner. I felt as if I was experiencing an Indiana Jones movie.... David Glenn says: ...an awesome adventure full of unforgettable characters and a plot worthy of the literary masterpieces of old. Poly Hart says: I have never been a fan of fantasy literature, but I have to admit that I found Beyond the Dead Forest captivating, exciting and just a lot of fun.... I have read it twice and plan to read it again. I could go on, but you get the idea.
2. Teachers of older children and youth can use the book as a yearlong curriculum because the chapters and the flashback scenes can be used as discussion starters that lead back to Biblical principles. I know of at least one Christian public school teacher who has a woman come in weekly to read it to her class. The kids get really excited about it. One of the students put on her My Space page: BEYOND THE DEAD FOREST IS THE BEST BOOK EVER!!!! Of course, parents give this book to their children and they love reading the thrilling adventure as they learn how to make good decisions.
3. The book is written in such a way that Christian’s can give it to their non-Christian friends as a fun fantasy adventure because God, Jesus, and the Bible are never mentioned. Nevertheless, Godly wisdom and Biblical principles are the basis of the situations in the story; it does open up dialogue with the non-churched. People who do not normally like fantasy literature and people who do not usually like Christian based literature, are often surprised that they enjoy this novel. One such person said, “I wasn’t expecting too much from this book as it was only after I’d received it that I realized it was based quite heavily around Biblical stories (it’s written by an American preacher) but to my surprise, I really enjoyed it…”
As you think about something special to give yourself or your family and friends, please consider this powerful tool that can minister as it entertains. Click the link below for more information, and see a list of free teaching short stories.fantasy, action adventure, religion and spirituality, children, kids, young adult, christian, values, church, spooky, thrilling, christianity, evangelism, teaching stories, mystery
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