Sunday, February 16, 2014

Rachel by Jill Eileen Smith

This latest book that I've read is by author Jill Eileen SmithRachel is the story about Rachel, Leah and Jacob found in Genesis 29-35 and is part of the Wives of the Patriarchs series.  I guess when I think of this story, I just know the facts and have not really sat down to think through all that these sisters would of went through being married to the same man.  Maybe I really don't want to think about that....

In the book, the girls have quite a rivalry having different mothers and the firstborn needing to be married first.  It's hard to tell from Scripture what things were really like between the sisters, but we can imagine the jealousy and rivalry there must of been since they competed for having children after they were married.

The telling of this story will make you think beyond just the facts of how things were back then.  I will say, the story was hard for me to enjoy.  It's hard reading about the turmoil, strife and deceit that was going on in their family.  I'm not sure whether to completely dislike Leah or pity her. 
If you're looking for a story that will make you bring these facts to life, then consider reading this book.  I will caution that it is probably not appropriate for young teen readers as Jacob is in the tent with the women quite a bit.  Although, Jacob is married to Leah and Rachel,  I'm not sure that I would want a young teen's thinking encouraged to pursue this track of thought.

***I received this free book from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

No comments: