I've been busy homeschooling my kids and getting ready for our oldest to graduate from our homeschool, but thought I might get another review in for you, my readers! I read a couple of books over the winter that were really great and inspiring. I was looking for something inspiring again, maybe empowering too as I conquered oodles of paperwork to get my son ready for college. Something historical I thought, because I love history, since history is after all, His Story. So something also biblically based, but not necessarily a dry history book sounded just right. When I read about this book Esther Queen of Persia I was excited to dive in and see what it was all about. It did not disappoint.
ISBN: 978-0988410718| List Price: $16.95 | Format: Softcover & ebook | Page Count: 304
About the book:
Hadassah, the beautiful, Jewish teenager from the city of Susa in Persia, is taken by force to the palace of King Ahasuerus. His command to find the most beautiful virgins in his kingdom, and bring them to the house of women, has placed Hadassah under the supervision of Hegai, the king's custodian of women. Hegai and his servants, have one year to prepare each virgin for one night with the king. Although Hadassah was taken from her home by force, she refuses to become bitter. She accepts being called Esther, but inside remains always, Hadassah. She continually wonders why she is there, yet remains faithful to her God, and to her identity. It is years before the answer is revealed. Her people face annihilation, and it falls upon her shoulders to stop it. Her first thought is to shirk her duty, but Mordecai, her cousin, will not allow it. His words, '"Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"' brings her to her senses.
Unlike many of the novels written about Esther, this book seeks to remain true to the Biblical account, while supplying additional historical information from the time period 486-473 B.C. The book has a five page Introduction, which gives insight into some of the things found in the story. It has a page, listing the months of the Jewish sacred calendar and the corresponding month of our modern calendar. Also in the back of the book is a listing of Scriptures mentioned in each chapter, along with a listing of works consulted in research for Esther Queen of Persia.
About the Author:
Born in Wichita, Kansas, Jim Baumgardner, raised by Christian parents, gave his life to Christ in 1957. The author continues to reside in Wichita with his wife Linda. They have three children and nine grandchildren. Jim has seven published books. Four are known as the Sarah books, which tell of the adventures of a girl named Sarah, set in the 19thCentury. The other three are Bible novels, including the author’s latest release Esther Queen of Persia. All of Jim’s books are primarily written for his grandchildren’s benefit.
You can learn more about the author by clicking on the websites below.
The Author was also nominated for:
You can purchase your copy on Amazon.
My Thoughts:
Before reading this book, I went and reread the book of Esther to brush up on the biblical facts of the life of Esther. I found the book followed the biblical account of Esther but from a fictional perspective. In our homeschooling we have really enjoyed reading historical fiction to gain a better understanding of the time period we are studying. I think this would be a great book to read alongside the Ancient History time period during the rein of King Ahasuerus. It is a very descriptive account of Esther's time in the King's palace and how she is chosen to become Queen and ultimately helps her Jewish people. I have always loved stories of simple people God uses in big ways. While this is a fictional account of the life of Esther, it does follow the Biblical account and is a good read. I would recommend you pick up a copy and check it out!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
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