A rags to riches story, Isaiah’s Daughter is a captivating look at real people who are a part of Israel’s history. Mesu Andrews creates a compelling story that is intricate and rich in characterization and dialogue. The principals are complex and endearing. Scenes are descriptive and memorable. I am in awe of the research done to create a narrative that is so irresistible.
Mesu Andrews was an active woman with a busy to-do list, until a debilitating illness cancelled her calendar. At that point, she found consolation in God’s Word and an unquenchable thirst for the stories recorded there. Her interpretation is fresh and insightful. Read my review of her book, Miriam, here.
I see the prophet Isaiah as a pillar of wisdom and insight, yet Isaiah’s Daughter helps me to view him as a mere mortal who relied on the Lord. Even he must have had doubts, as voiced on page 36, “Yahweh, I will trust You when I have more questions than answers.”
The author uses the power of storytelling to illustrate truths that are also relevant for our day. On page 53, Isaiah told his class that God had revealed the coming Messiah, as well as an attack by Syria. When he gave them a chance to respond to why God would do both, Eliakim said, “Could it be the same reason my abba swats me with a stick? When I disobey, Abba swats me, and it hurts. But he hugs me after and says he disciplined me because he loves me. Maybe God will send His presence to comfort at a time when His discipline is most severe.”
On page 118, Prince Hezekiah asks, “What benefit is prophecy when we can’t understand it?”
Isaiah responds, “Prophecy – even when we don’t fully understand it – is given so we can watch God’s sovereignty and power unfold. He offers clues to identify His activity in the world around us. For those who are alert to His activity, we find great reward in discovering His love and faithfulness. For those who ignore God’s involvement in this world, there awaits disaster and regret when His meaning is revealed.”
If ever there was a time we needed those words, it’s now. We’re watching world events unfold at an incredible rate. Jesus has promised His return. We are to watch for the clues and obey to the end.
Do you struggle with knowing God’s will for you? When Ishma desires to know God’s will, Isaiah reminds her God’s “plan for you in this moment is to be faithful where you are.”
Do you struggle with dark days? Yaira says she experienced joy more deeply because she had known sadness.
Through the actions of King Ahaz, we come to understand the consequences of our choices – good or bad.
Through the frustration of Isaiah, we learn how to pray for those who don’t seek God.
Through the eyes of Hephzibah, we see the importance of creating homes for our husbands that are a safe refuge away from the criticisms of the world.
Through a miscarriage, we find sisterhood in the way the harem cares for their queen.
Why read Isaiah’s Daughter? It gives a glimpse into the hopes and dreams of people who struggled to follow God, just like we do, in the midst of unexplainable turmoil. Isaiah’s Daughter is an incredible love story of a woman and a man in the annals of history. Yet, more importantly, it is the love story of God and His chosen people. It will encourage and bolster your faith as you wrestle alongside their battles!
Sally
FTC disclaimer: “I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.”
What a beautifully-written review, dear lady! Thank you so much for your thoughts, your observations, and your kindness. Blessings on you!
Keep writing, Mesu! I love the way you piece together a story!