Here's a new biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the young Lutheran theologian in Hitler's Germany who was an early and constant voice of resistance against the Third Reich and who was executed for his involvement in a plot to assassinate Hitler. It's called Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy. Not only is it completely brilliant, but it reads like a thriller. Not only that, but it also happens to have been written by my dear friend, Eric Metaxas.
It's already being critically-acclaimed. And little wonder. Eric has used his incredible gift of storytelling and employed primary sources to bring the story vividly to life--painting scenes so real that you feel as if you were actually there.
Take this (totally creepy image) for instance:
"... Schlabrendorff" Eric writes "recalled the grim spectacle of Hitler at table: 'To see Hitler eat was a most disgusting sight. His left hand he placed upon his thigh, while with his right hand he stuffed his food, consisting of all sorts of vegetables, into his mouth. As he did so he did not lift his hand to his mouth, but kept his right arm flat on the table and brought his mouth down to his food." (p.427)
This incredible biography that reads like a thriller that is written by my good friend is at the same time theological deep and sophisticated.
It's getting stellar reviews in the WSJ and ... (drum roll) a starred review in Kirkus. And THAT'S saying something!
(I haven't yet read the entire book, just portions of it--I'm saving it up for my summer reading! Can't wait.)
