Many months ago, I saw a preview for The Song being released in local movie theaters, but sadly enough it never came to this part of the state. Naturally, when I saw the book up for review, I quickly requested a copy. I have been trying to fit in a work of fiction between each non-fiction book that I read this year. This is helping me to stay sharp and fresh when I’m reading– and it really helps me in writing, too.
I have to be honest I was a bit apprehensive about reading The Song. The last book I read which was released at a similar time as the movie was not wonderful but seemed like a sloppy adaption of the screen play. With that book, I struggled to find anything creative about the telling of the story having also seen the movie. This book, The Song
Jed King, the son of famous musician David King, struggles to really find his place in life and in music. Though he has the talent, he has yet to find the passion needed for a career as a musician. When he plays for a Vineyard Festival in the town of Sharon, his future shifts in a tangible way. Enter Rose, the daughter of the vineyard owner. Having Rose out in the crowd stops Jed right in his set and he asks her out right on the spot. Their fast moving journey toward marriage and the future is real, pure, and beautifully told. Finally, in Rose, Jed has found all of the love and inspiration his music was lacking and he pens the song for her that propels him into the fame for which he was not even searching. Jed’s new found notoriety takes him down the rocky path of stardom which proves treacherous and ultimately unfulfilling. The Song, a modern adaptation of the life of King Solomon, causes the reader to ask difficult questions about grace, forgiveness and love. The tag line of the book, Even the Wisest of Men was a Fool For Love reveals the nature of certain struggles Jed will encounter on his journey.
I truly enjoyed this book. Unfortunately, the hard truth about pieces of Christian Fiction that attempt to deal with difficult issues– is that they often seem detached in hopes of not glorifying sin. This was not the case with this story. The writers write not from removed piety but from the place of being those in need of grace, as we all are. The Song is poignant and at times, heartbreaking without being vulgar or too raw. Well written and honest, the rough road Jed walks is detailed as he recklessly careens toward ruin without being either trite or coarse. One of the most clear themes of The Song is the theme of Grace that runs like a lovely thread from the first page until the last. I will not reveal how it ends, but if you love a good ending with plenty of redemption, you will certainly enjoy this The Song. I highly recommend this enjoyable and praise-worthy read. You can pick up your own copy of The Song
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**I received a free copy of The Song by Chris Fabry from the Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you, Tyndale!
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