ABOUT THE BOOK:

EXAMINING TWILIGHT THROUGH A BIBLICAL LENS

People around the world are asking the same question, enraptured with Edward and Bella’s forbidden romance in the Twilight Saga, a four-book serial phenomenon written by Stephenie Meyer. The bestsellers tell the story of a regular girl’s relationship with a vampire who has chosen to follow his “good” side. But the Saga isn’t just another fantasy–it’s teaching girls about love, sex, and purpose. With 48 million copies in print and a succession of upcoming blockbuster films, now is the time to ask the important question: Can vampires teach us about God’s plan for love?

Touched by a Vampire is the first book to investigate the themes of the Twilight Saga from a Biblical perspective. Some Christian readers have praised moral principles illustrated in the story, such as premarital sexual abstinence, which align with Meyer’s Mormon beliefs. But ultimately, Beth Felker Jones examines whether the story’s redemptive qualities outshine its darkness.

Cautionary, thoughtful, and challenging, Touched by a Vampire is written for Twilight fans, parents, teachers, and pop culture enthusiasts. It includes an overview of the series for those unfamiliar with the storyline and a discussion guide for small groups.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Beth Felker Jones is  an Assistant Professor of Theology on the staff of Wheaton College. She and her husband Bryan, a United Methodist minister have three children.

MY REVIEW:

I have not read any of the Twilight series but like almost everyone who is at all aware of contemporary culture, especially those who browse the book sections of Sam’s Club or Walmart, I have noticed the recent prevalence of books with vampire themes. Why, I even saw a vampire Christmas book in Walmart last week! Then too, I have heard fellow Christians raving about how hooked they are on the series. Not only that but I have had a couple of vampire books offered to me for review through a Christian blog alliance. So you could say that in the year 2009, we are surrounded by vampire hype.

I was initially hesitant to review Touched by a Vampire because I was afraid it was just one more book written to take advantage of the current craze. However my curiosity took control and I accepted the challenge. To my delight, Touched by a Vampire is an easily read book that has been arranged intelligently by the primary themes of the Twilight series. The author has read the books and shares her honest thoughts about them, making sure that the reader understands she does not consider herself an expert. As Ms. Jones discusses each topic, she shares insights about how it applies within the book and contrasts it with Biblical principles. I personally believe that she has done a remarkable job.

The one overwhelming impression that I gleaned from Touched by a Vampire is that the Twilight series is driven by unhealthy obsession. If I have ever briefly considered reading it out of curiosity, my desire to do so has now  been quenched. If anyone is considering reading the Twilight series or wonders whether to allow a daughter to read it, PLEASE read Touched by a Vampire first. I think you will be glad you did.

I will be giving away two copies of Touched by a Vampire in this book giveaway post. Be sure to check it out for your chance to win.

Thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for my review copy of Touched by a Vampire.