Auralia's Colors

I bought Auralia's Colors in the science fiction and fantasy section at Barnes and Nobles on the vague memory that someone had mentioned it favorably once. I read the story, not thinking about the Christian author as that particular fact had slipped my mind. By the end of the book, I was certain of the biblical parallels and very sorry to realize I'd have to wait for the sequel.

It's so exciting that there are Christian authors who write books to interest the general fantasy audience; and to think that random people who don't know Christ might pick up the book, submerge themselves into a truth-focused world-view, and come out longing for more. This book is a re-reader because it is like a prizm--drawing nuances of color from the truth, each illuminating perspectives worth considering before Christ. There's no way I can think about all of it in just one reading.

Even as Jeffery Overstreet manages to pack many messages and reminders into his story, there are no overt lectures or sermons. This is a fable to illustrate truth, and the meaning is left for us to consider. I'm sure the sequel will help with the process, but already I've found myself looking more closely at Christ's interactions in my life as a result of this book.

For example: What does it mean for us to be citizens of a kingdom no one can define? What beauty has been stolen from our lives "for everyone's good"? What greatness do we seek that is not truly great? Where do we offer our treasures and how willing are we to let them rest in some dark storage place rather than being of use and bringing joy to those around us? I could go on... but I'm sure you'll come up with your own ponderings as you read Auralia's Colors.

My favorite quote from an interview with Jeffery:

If there is some truth to a work of art, or some beauty, poetry, and passion — that can give the audience an encounter with God, even in the artist doesn’t believe in God. I’ve read an awful lot of Christian books that were poorly written, derivative, boring, and sloppy. That doesn’t do me any good. And my faith has been encouraged and transformed by artists who would never call themselves Christians. It doesn’t matter much who is writing the story — it’s the story that matters. It doesn’t matter what color that candle’s made of — it’s the light and the heat the draws people in. You’ve probably heard it said, “All truth is God’s truth.” I would add that all beauty is beautiful because it reflects God’s glory.

May many hearts find something to search for in reading this book, and may they be satisfied with nothing less than the King of Kings, Christ.
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For other perspectives and better reviews, please visit the links below.

Brandon Barr , Jim Black , Justin Boyer , Grace Bridges , Jackie Castle , Carol Bruce Collett , Valerie Comer , CSFF Blog Tour , D. G. D. Davidson , Chris Deanne , Jeff Draper , April Erwin , Marcus Goodyear , Andrea Graham , Jill Hart , Katie Hart , Timothy Hicks , Heather R. Hunt , Becca Johnson , Jason Joyner , Kait , Karen , Carol Keen , Mike Lynch , Margaret , Rachel Marks , Shannon McNear , Melissa Meeks , Rebecca LuElla Miller , Mirtika or Mir's Here , Pamela Morrisson , Eve Nielsen , John W. Otte , John Ottinger , Deena Peterson , Rachelle , Steve Rice , Cheryl Russel , Ashley Rutherford , Hanna Sandvig , Chawna Schroeder , James Somers , Rachelle Sperling , Donna Swanson , Steve Trower , Speculative Faith , Jason Waguespac , Laura Williams , Timothy Wise