Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt: A Novel

Anne Rice, famous for books such as "Interview with the Vampire" an "Queen of the Damned," brings her skills to tackle her most challenging work to date: a look at the childhood of our Lord and Savior. "Christ The Lord: Out of Egypt," the first of a planned trilogy, takes a look at Jesus during His seventh and eighth years on this earth, struggling to come to terms with His identity, as well as pondering the special powers He seems to possess, while returning to the family home of Nazareth during a tumultuous time, as rebellion has broken out through Palestine.
For the most part, Rice's novel delivers the goods. It is a fascinating portrait of how Jesus came to learn Who He was, and what His life was meant for. However, there are certain passages that tend to drag at times. Instead of focusing on the life-changing events of the time, Rice gives us details that, while interesting, just drag the plot out. But overall, this is an interesting look at how the Son of God lived at an early age. Christians and non-Christians alike should enjoy "Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt."
Book Grade: B

I am trying desperately to wade through this book that I really do want to like. I am intrigued and interested in the subject. It should be fascinating. But, I want to throw the book across the room! I can't get past the poorly written sentences, the badly divided paragraphs, and the shallow story development, etc. I understand that it is supposed to sound like a seven year old is talking, but it should not read like a seven year old wrote it. I've read a few of Ann's other books and I cannot believe that what I am reading is not the first draft that hasn't even been proofread by the author. I just want to take a red pen to the book! One example from chapter 21, page 229: "The second crop of figs was pulling down our old tree in the courtyard, and the olive pickers beating the branches in the orchards, and I felt a happiness I'd never known, and I knew that I felt it." I didn't misquote that. Maybe I got an un-edited copy, if that is possible. I have the sequel already, so I hope it is a better read.

This is the essential question that Rice explores in Out of Egypt. Rice very convincingly weaves together the gospel story of the early life of the Lord, providing details that are engaging and enjoyable.

Her descriptions of Judea, her portrayals of Jewish life in the Holy Land, and the rich conversations between characters made this story a great read, and great prayer.

-Christopher Maricle
Author of "The Jesus Priorties: 8 Essential Habits"

A year in the life of a seven year old Jesus is an interesting topic at first glance. But then again, a perfect child, with perfect parents and a perfect brother don't do much to inspire my interest. Rice writes firmly within her new found Catholic Orthodoxy and for those who believe in this particular conservative brand of theology her juvenile Christ may well inspire. She takes a well researched but narrow minded scope of first century life in Palestine, and her characters never seem to live as real people except to further her own brand of religion.

The story was great as I would expect from Anne Rice. Her historical research is amazing. The only down side of this audiobook was the reader. His voice was a bit whiny and unpleasant. The sequel had a different reader that was much better.