The Silent Years, by Alan W.C. Green

So, why doesn’t the Bible tell us more about the early life of Jesus? Why aren’t their more details about the most interesting Person in human history? Maybe we were supposed to use our imagination.

In the tradition of Anne Rice (Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt), Walter Wangerin (Jesus), and many others, Green applies his background as a historian and creatively weaves a plausible story of the ‘unwritten’ experiences of Jesus. The Silent Years is an account of Jesus’ life as told from the perspective of his uncle, Benaiah bar Jabez.

This novel is a unforgettable page turner, not simply because of our natural curiosity about Jesus, but also because of Green’s writing style and storytelling ability. The reader will encounter surprising and dramatic twists and turns, challenging theological extrapolations, and curious relationships – all of which bring to life the Son of Man.

If you belong to a book club, this novel would most likely elicit a fascinating discussion and ought to be first on your reading list for the New Year.