Review: Under God by TobyMac and Michael Tait

Synopsis: In the same uncompromising style of Jesus Freaks, bestselling authors Michael Tait and TobyMac of dc Talk now urge readers to take their stand for America's future--by examining our past. Using unforgettable accounts of both famous and little-known Americans, Under God examines the stories of men and women who forged our nation. Against these, they pair the dark side of America's legacy--racism, slavery, injustice--in order that a new generation might seek God's face and avoid repeating sins of the past. The authors draw on the resources of WallBuilders, a national organization that distributes historical, legal, and statistical information and helps citizens become active in their communities. (from the online description)

Review: Arranged in short non-fiction stories, this book covers many events and people from the beginning of American history to modern times. Each story emphasizes the faith in God of the people involved, and the choice they made to honor God, no matter the cost. Many of these stories do not have happy endings. People died for their beliefs. People lost everything when they stood up for what was right.

The stories are not arranged chronologically, which can be distracting. Also, the focus was heavily on slavery and the civil rights movement. While this was not a bad thing, I had hoped for a more inclusive book. For example, few-to-none of the stories spoke about WWI or WWII, about the sciences and arts, about the Cold War or Prohibition or Women's Rights.  I understand they could not include ever good story. But there was a lack of balance.

That being said, this is an excellent book - one might even use it as a devotional discussion or the starting point for a history lesson. I highly recommend for use at home or at school. 

Bookmarks: 7 of 10

Awards: None

ISBN 0-7642-0008-9
Year Published: 2004
Date Finished: 7-22-2016
Pages: 384