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4 out of 4 stars
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After losing their (first) home and then being cursed for their shortcoming, Adam and Eve are left to fend for themselves in a world so new to them. For the first time in their few months of existence, they are faced with the decision to either survive separately or depend on each other for safety. Unlike in the garden, life was tough on the outside, and they didn't have their father to guide them, but they soon realise that this wasn't true, and their exile was a form of protection. How did these two personalities, with different views of life, make it work? We all think or believe Eve fell due to disobedience, but did we ever think it was because of her curiosity or ignorance?
Killing Abel by Michael Tieman is a historical fiction that depicts the beginning of human creation in a beautifully relatable way. In this book, the author gives an imaginary view of events that occurred in the garden of Eden, retelling the story of Adam and Eve's fall. He takes us through the early days of man's existence, their struggles for survival, and the genesis of human feelings and procreation. In his way, the author fills up details not told in the original story, giving possible answers to some questions the readers might be curious about.
My favourite thing about the book is that it demystifies the story of procreation in the Christian bible. It tells the same story from a different point of view, and in an understandable way. Not only was Adam and Eve's story broken down, but also the stories of their offsprings, down to the great flood, were also told. I love the fact that every character was unriddled, and every plot was duly attended to, leaving the book with no plot holes. In such a seamless way, the author speaks about parenting, restitution, discipline, and humility. He even simplifies the concept of love and law.
God's persona as a father is not often dwelled upon in the old testament, and it's admirable how the author beautifully links his disciplinary actions with fatherhood. While reading the book, I got to understand humanity and saw the biblical characters in a different light. Everything about the book was pleasantly surprising, and I found myself drawn into the story.
I disliked the book initially because of its inaccuracies and the misquoted bible verses, but I soon realised that the author was only giving his interpretation and explanation of the stated verses. Although there was some untruthfulness to the story in comparison to the biblical occurrence, the author did a great job portraying all events in an enthralling way.
I would rate this book a 4 out of 4 stars as there was absolutely nothing I could find wrong with the book. It was well-edited, and I enjoyed reading the book a lot.
I recommend this book to mature Christians and readers, as it can be misleading to those who are young in faith. I also think enthusiasts of the creation of man will find this an interesting read.
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Killing Abel
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