Sarah Lane Ritchie

Exploding Stars, Dead Dinosaurs, and Zombies

Science & Faith

“One might not expect a book entitled Exploding Stars, Dead Dinosaurs, and Zombies to be a work of serious theology that rigorously engages scientific and historical research—but this is exactly what Andrew Root has achieved. It would not be an exaggeration to consider this book the youth ministry book on science and theology. As a highly regarded theologian of youth ministry, Root here brings the specific developmental and spiritual realities of young people into conversation with some of the most challenging questions surrounding the intersection of faith and scientific knowledge. Root is refreshingly and unapologetically theological in his engagement not only with specific scientific theories but with the socially constructed metaphysical edifice of science. Root’s work is exceptionally well-researched and—just as importantly—remarkably accessible; one need not hold a PhD to follow its arguments (though even academics will be challenged by them!). Exploding Stars is a gamechanger, deserving a place on the bookshelves of not only all youth ministers but anyone seeking an intellectually honest and spiritually sensitive engagement with science and theology.”