Bob Hostetler Reviews

Added September 29, 2008

The Bone Box: A Novel

Author: Bob Hostetler
Publisher: Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: October 7, 2008
Genre: Fiction/Christian
Format: Trade paper
Price: $13.99
ISBN-10: 1-4165-6647-3
Author Email/Website: http://www.bobhostetler.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

The Bone Box is more than a few skeletons in the closet. Archaeologist and agnostic, Randall Bullock uncovers a stone casket that contains not only the remains of "Joseph, son of Caiaphas" but also the most convincing proof of the resurrection of Jesus Christ ever analyzed. As Randall authenticates his findings, he is forced to examine his personal reaction to this discovery.

First class writing makes this fast paced novel intriguing as well as a bit interactive. No one can close this book without first coming to terms with the death and resurrection of Jesus. This story brilliantly opens up the possibility of an archaeological find that is proof positive of these events. Although this is a work of fiction, the author draws heavily on biblical and historical records to confirm the framework upon which this tale rests.

The story moves between the present day and the time of Christ's trial and crucifixion. As Randall Bullock excavates the stone casket from the ground and carefully records the details of his findings, the narrative shifts to ancient Jerusalem as the High Priest and Caiaphas ponder the problem of the Jew named Jesus. This same Caiaphas, whose bones are discovered at the archaeological site, enters the modern day story through a carefully preserved scroll. The time periods blur as the proof of Christ's resurrection comes into clearer focus. The fictional additions to the historical accounts create an intriguing and possible scenario.

The setting includes the political turbulence of Israel and further highlights the explosive reaction that often accompanies a discussion of Christ's resurrection. The interaction between the characters and their approach to the truth provides readers with a complete view of the faith and the furor a discovery like this could generate. The final pages bring a conclusion that is as powerful as the ideas presented.

Open The Bone Box and be prepared to be rattled with a realistic "what if".

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This page was last updated on September 29, 2008

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