Zebedee_x0019_ s Calling brings 11th Century England to life, with key battles and royal successions, as well as the efforts among a group of zealous Christians to have access to Scripture written in English. Along with revelations about rulers, military tactics and the Church, there also are descriptions of Anglo-Saxon society and daily life. Although this story is historical fiction, it parallels our time. The accounts of Christian leaders and martyrs who strove to make the Bible accessible to the people draw attention to the immeasurable value of Scripture, and how blessed we are to possess it today.
What Others Say About This Book:
A rare, historically accurate fictional epic that is an inspiration for today_x0019_ s youth, Zebedee_x0019_ s Calling represents Joel_x0019_ s unique approach to story-telling and stimulates both introspection and action: What is the place of the Bible in today_x0019_ s society? What is our obligation to ensure people have access to the Holy Scriptures? And most importantly, what can the coming generation do to re-ignite our passion for God, for country, and for the salvation of the world?
%Andrew Friedel, President, Christian Fellowship Church of Kitchener-Waterloo
Joel encapsulates the essence of _x001C_ true_x001D_ Christianity in Zebedee_x0019_ s Calling. Although the characters may be fictitious, the storyline is very relatable through the ages. I was particularly impressed with his use of thought processes when one is questioning true believers on God_x0019_ s existence and Zebedee_x0019_ s responses which unequivocally removed any doubt. I thoroughly enjoyed the glimpse into the interesting historical culture, with associated terminology and the evolution through the passage of time. My key take-away is that Salvation comes not from religion, but from our relationship with God. A real gem for believers and non-believers, young and old!
%Sharen Way, Ontario, Canada
About the Author:
Author Joel Francis was born into a God-loving, Bible-believing Christian family in India, and emigrated with his family to Canada when he was a young boy. Learning about the history of the Church and attending a Catholic high school inspired him to write his first book, Zebedee_x0019_ s Calling. Joel conveys the eternal truths he continues learning about God through his writing, and he wishes to serve and glorify Him in every sphere of life. Joel lives with his parents and brother. He graduated from the University of Toronto with majors in applied statistics and economics, and a minor in mathematics.
Industry Reviews
A rare, historically accurate fictional epic that is an inspiration for today's youth, Zebedee's Calling represents Joel's unique approach to story-telling and stimulates both introspection and action: What is the place of the Bible in today's society? What is our obligation to ensure people have access to the Holy Scriptures? And most importantly, what can the coming generation do to re-ignite our passion for God, for country, and for the salvation of the world?
?Andrew Friedel, President, Christian Fellowship Church of Kitchener-Waterloo
Joel encapsulates the essence of "true" Christianity in Zebedee's Calling. Although the characters may be fictitious, the storyline is very relatable through the ages. I was particularly impressed with his use of thought processes when one is questioning true believers on God's existence and Zebedee's responses which unequivocally removed any doubt. I thoroughly enjoyed the glimpse into the interesting historical culture, with associated terminology and the evolution through the passage of time. My key take-away is that Salvation comes not from religion, but from our relationship with God. A real gem for believers and non-believers, young and old!
?Sharen Way, Ontario, Canada
Joel Francis has written an exciting, action-filled story of a young hero, Zebedee, whose courage and loyalty are challenged in the face of danger. Decision-making, family values, trustworthy friendships, and a growing faith are blended together to make this historically-based story a must read for any young reader.
?Pastor Paul G. Knauer, BS, BEd, MA in Christian School Administration, MDiv.
