110 Strategies for Success in College and Life

Book excerpt: Did you ever stop to consider that the only gift given to the adult Jesus was by a black man when Simon carried his cross? Or that the mighty, invincible Roman Army was defeated by an army of African warriors? Or that Jesus learned much of his healing powers and the power to raise the dead from a temple in Africa? These and many other stories are among the themes of The Cyrenean, by John M. Lee, a fast-paced, thought-provoking novel covering the life of Simon from Cyrene. As a slave, Simon is made a gladiator and is taught the evils of fighting in the Roman arena of death. Simon soon escapes and flees to Israel, where he and Jesus become friends, setting the stage for Simon's ultimate revenge, not only for the agony of the crucifixion of Jesus, but also for the killing of Simon's father early on in the book. The author's vivid descriptions and fluid prose produce a highly enjoyable read, for not only are his character portrayals and dialogue effective and real, his delving into historical events and people bring this work to the status of a page-turner. His people are presented with having universal appeal, with human strengths and weaknesses, all of which combine for a literate narrative rendering filled with adventure, excitement, romance, and above all, significant meaning. Mr. Lee's fine sense of timing and bold writing style infuses his story with life and suspense. He makes you care about the characters, the true standard for quality writing, and his obvious understanding of what makes people do the things they do is the essential element in many an interesting point about human nature. The passion and genuine goodness of Simon comes searing across each and every page of this book as the author's engaging style takes over from the very first page. As a highly recommended book, both for its energy and its realism, The Cyrenean, by John M. Lee, is one literary experience not to be missed.