Review by Gnome -- Who Told You That You Were Naked?

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Gnome
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Review by Gnome -- Who Told You That You Were Naked?

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[Following is a volunteer review of "Who Told You That You Were Naked?" by William Combs.]
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4 out of 4 stars
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William E. Combs uses a catchy title to get a younger generation interested. Who Told You That You Were Naked? is almost a cliff note version of the book of Genesis. There is a stylized version of the iconic tale with an easy to understand explanation of each event. Combs also includes discussion questions for reflection. Personal anecdotes bring context to Combs's message. They offer insight on how to apply these early lessons of the Bible to your own life.

Who Told You That You Were Naked? seems geared towards either a younger audience or an audience who is new to faith (eg: a "Born Again" Christian). Combs takes a new look at the story of Adam and Eve by giving them personalities. He has them tell their own story and does not rely on an emotionless narrator. By giving Adam and Eve distinct personalities, Combs allows the reader to understand the stories of Genesis on a deeper level.

Combs goes further than explaining the story of Adam and Eve. He takes his lesson and applies it to his life by bringing personal anecdotes to the reader. Combs peppers the later chapters with his own story of growing with God. He adds anecdotes from his wife's perspective to support the lessons. Combs also spends the time to highlight alternative applications of the lessons. He allows the reader to apply a custom interpretation to their own lives.

Any drawbacks to Who Told You That You Were Naked? stem from the reader's own familiarity with the Bible. A reader will either be able to enjoy the new take or return to the original story. Combs seems to think ahead, noting that his application of the message is not the only one. He allows for independent thought as you reflect on his words.

Who Told You That You Were Naked? was well edited but the chapter introductions occasionally bled into the dramatizations. These exceptionally smooth transitions did not take away from Combs's message. Each foot note was correctly cited and Combs even notes a specific translation of the Bible.

I rate Who Told You That You Were Naked? 4 out of 4. It is a refreshing take on the story told at the beginning of the Book of Genesis. Combs reimagines what it must have been like to live in the Garden of Eden. There are clear explanations on how to apply the lessons of original sin to our daily lives.

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Who Told You That You Were Naked?
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