Mary – Christopher Graham | Reviewed by: Aaron Washington, Pacific Book Review

In Mary, Christopher Graham writes about Bible-related stories, aiding the reader to reflect on faith, religion and character. The Biblical stories are told from the perspective of Mary, the mother of Jesus. There are multiple accounts in the book, ranging from the crucifixion of Jesus to his resurrection. Readers can learn more about Jesus, his apostles, and the people he helped during his time on Earth. I like how Mary is presented as a modest, caring and loving mother, not just as the mother of Jesus but all that believe in him. Through Mary, we learn women should aspire to be distinguished mothers, spouses, and faithful servants of God. This book is stimulating because the author made the tales contemplating with the narration. With every story told, the reader can take lessons which will help them in their day-to-day life.

Mary is a riveting Christian historical fiction novel and will make a good read for individuals that enjoy biblical tales, history, and religious narratives.  From the first chapter, the reader is made aware of how crucial mothers are in families and society in general. Mothers are compassionate, devoted, and concerned, and would do anything for their offspring. The presentation of Mary in ‘Voices and Angles’ shows a different side of the mother of Jesus that not many were aware of. Reading about Jesus’ crucifixion was overwhelming. Despite being familiar to many, the story felt different and fresh. The technique Christopher Graham applies in his narration gives the reader a new stance and a further understanding of Biblical tales. Christopher Graham’s penmanship is different. The author makes every story unique and brings in unexplored lessons. Through his narration, the reader can connect to their unknown sides and better understand God and Jesus as supreme beings.

Many Biblical stories were referenced in the book. Being a Christian historical fiction novel, it easy for the reader to connect the tales with Biblical stories and even Holy Scriptures. Some of the stories I enjoyed reading were Joseph of Arimathea and Michael’s Warning, Pontius Pilate and High Council, Caiaphas and Anna, Joseph and Nicodemus, and Procula and Cornelius. From these stories, you learn about respect for authorities and higher figures, love of family, admiration for God, and the relationships between one human being and the next.

My favorite chapters had discussions on human virtues and the Christian faith. The chapters on dignity in service, the evil one, and believing in things intrigued me because of how profound the author was with the subjects. The lessons and narration were resounding, educational, and sacred.

Mary is an exciting book for lovers of Christian literature and readers that appreciate impeccable writing and narration.  The author’s writing technique and distinct style of displaying Biblical content deserve to be applauded. I commend the author for the book’s themes and the excellent tone throughout the pages. Every subject Christopher Graham touched on was absorbing.