Matt McAvoy Book Review

As I’ve a tendency not to read blurbs before reviewing a book, I was pleasantly surprised by this narrative retelling of one of the better-known yet perhaps lesser-written parables of the Bible’s Book of Kings (2): that of Naaman, a formidable and haunted Semitic commander who renounced his king and god Rimmon, to worship the one true god Yahweh.  The more famous summary of this tale is that Naaman was miraculously cured of leprosy then went on to lead vast crusading armies against the brutal Assyrians, freeing and converting slaves along the way.  It is a fascinating tale, if you’ve a penchant for ancient history and biblical retellings.  The pleasant surprise lay in the fact that this is not a simple, preachy interpretation of Scripture, as the book’s title might suggest, but rather an intriguing fictionalized story format, painting Naaman as a rather gentle and humble giant, and layering  supporting characters accordingly.

Author Dwight David Croy knows his subject well, and seems to have a real eye for the details and nuances of the main character and his contrition.  He is a very good writer, too, who can craft the humanity and subtly moving arc in a narrative.  I enjoyed this book a great deal, and it was satisfying to witness the strong principle and devotion of the lead character to his faith.  There are also some nice moral messages in the tale which, thankfully, Croy does not overly focus on or lay on too thickly.  Perhaps at times it could have moved a little quicker, and it is very dialogue-led on occasion, but there is generally a nice balance, the author opting to craft events around the interactions of the people in it, both friends and foe.  He opts for the understated approach to drama, allowing the maturity of the characters to guide their decisions; they are thoughtful and measured when guiding their actions, rather than stereotypical or reinforcing of tropes.  It is a calm, reflective read.

If you want an introductory guide to this ancient legend, this perhaps might not be your best go-to resource; I think it would be better enjoyed by those familiar with the story or the book from which it comes.  They too may find themselves dissecting the details of it with a critical or praising eye.  I will say, though, as a reader of historical fiction, whether the character of Naaman is real or invented, it is a very enjoyable short read, which does everything a book of its nature should: hopefully, like me, you will ponder, consider and relax – maybe learning something new along the way.