Susan VanZanten

Deep Reading

Theology

“While Christian literary approaches frequently are concerned with what specific texts should be read (canon wars) or their compatibility with Christianity (worldview critique), Deep Reading contributes to an important new and newly critical genre that views reading as a spiritual practice: a subversive activity contesting modern distraction, polarization, and consumerism. This jewel of a book will speak to readers of all sorts and inspire them to engage in deep, open, and generous reading.”

Metaphors We Teach By

Discipleship & Christian Education

“As a maven of metaphors myself, I am delighted with Metaphors We Teach By, which examines how metaphor informs and enhances the teaching life. Moving beyond the traditional 'sage on the stage and the guide by the side' formulation, the contributors to this volume concoct a rich stew of personal accounts, scholarly expertise, and metaphors ranging from oysters to gardens, superheroes to invisible thread.”

Public Intellectuals and the Common Good

Ethics, Culture & Social Issues

“While some fear that the role of the public intellectual has been overpowered by social media platforms on which anyone can claim to be an authority or influencer, Public Intellectuals and the Common Good makes the case for pursuing and honoring the vocation of the public intellectual. Whether as theologians, scholars, journalists, or social activists, Christians have been called to identify and argue for a vision of human flourishing that crosses religious and cultural boundaries, making complex ideas accessible for all citizens. These provocative essays explore both the theoretical views and personal practices of Christian public intellectuals in the United States, who serve as prophetic voices in an age of incivility.”