Donald Miller’s writing is gold. His somber reflections on life touch something deep within you, making you want to be a better person. If you enjoyed Blue Like Jazz, you’ll enjoy Jazz Notes. This easy-to-read gift book is a distillation of Miller’s former work. Sadly, on the included CD with readings from Blue Like Jazz, there is an unimaginatively peppy Casio keyboard track fighting with Miller’s low-key voice. If you know someone who is searching for God, this might be the right book for them. Or, you could give them Blue Like Jazz.
Thomas Nelson, April 2008, 144 pp., $14.99
Going to the roots of the blues, Stephen Nichols shows how this quintessential American musical form ties inextricably to Christian theology. Writing for the white, suburban Christian, Nichols weaves a thoroughly intricate but fascinating history of Mississippi Delta blues. His premise is, “The blues help us understand what theologians call redemption.” Our spiritual and musical forebears have suffered greatly, and this book helps you to get in touch with this essential message.
Brazos Press, September 2008, 192 pp., $17.99
