The Book of Longings
Book Author: Sue Monk Kidd
Summary reviewed by:
Terrence Timmons
Terrence Timmons
Analyst
Bachelor of Arts (BA), University Of California, Santa Barbara 2019
With over 4 years of experience as an analyst. Terrence Timmons is committed to analyzing summaries without compromising on quality.
The Book of Longings: Summary
In "The Book of Longings", Sue Monk Kidd transports us to the vivid landscapes of the first-century Middle East, where a young woman named Ana, with a fierce intellect and a longing for a voice in a world that silences women, embarks on a remarkable journey. Ana, the daughter of the chief scribe to Herod Antipas, defies the expectations of her time by asserting her intellectual and spiritual passions. Her path intertwines with Jesus of Nazareth, leading to a marriage grounded in profound love and mutual respect. This union, unconventional and contentious, steers both Ana and Jesus onto a collision course with societal norms and historical events. Ana's undying desire to pen the stories of forgotten women and her quest for self-expression become the heart of the narrative. Amidst the backdrop of an ancient world rife with oppression and turmoil, Ana's story emerges as a beacon of hope and resilience, a testament to the enduring power of the female spirit.
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The Book of Longings
Date Published: April 21, 2020
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The Book of Longings: Genres
Fiction
Historical Fiction
Literary Fiction
Feminist Literature
Christian Literature
Cultural Fiction
The Book of Longings: Main Characters
Ana: A spirited and intelligent young woman with a passion for writing, especially about forgotten women. She defies societal norms, demonstrating her values of independence and intellectual freedom.
Jesus of Nazareth: Ana’s husband, characterized by his profound compassion and revolutionary teachings. His values include empathy, kindness, and a deep commitment to spiritual and social change.
Yaltha: Ana’s aunt, a wise and worldly woman who influences Ana’s feminist ideologies. She embodies resilience and the quest for knowledge.
The Book of Longings: Themes
The Power of Female Voice: The novel emphasizes the importance of women’s stories and voices, particularly in a historical context where they are often silenced.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Ana’s journey showcases the strength required to endure personal and societal challenges while staying true to one’s convictions.
Spiritual Exploration: The book delves into the complexities of faith and spirituality, exploring how these elements intertwine with everyday life and personal relationships.
Love and Sacrifice: Ana and Jesus’ relationship serves as a testament to the depth and sacrifice inherent in true love, transcending societal norms and expectations.