Member Reviews
I wasn't able to finish this book due to the poor quality of the writing. Too many personal anecdotes from the writer's life that didn't offer insightful wisdom for me. I like the premise of the novel overall, I just didn't feel a connection to what she had to offer in the opening chapters. I expected something more mature. Pithy.
I will not be posted this review anywhere. Thanks for the opportunity.
Chasing Famous was a timely addition to my shelf! My church life group focuses on missions, and recently completed John Piper's Let the Nations Be Glad! DVD and group study guide. In it, Piper emphasizes God's pursuit of His own glory; this theme continues (and Piper is mentioned several times) in Chasing Famous. I geeked out a little, as a big Piper fan.
Thus, I approached Chasing Famous with a somewhat pronounced missional focus and Piper bent. That being said - any reader can relate to Lloyd's writing style and content. Her unique perspective and story immediately draw you in, and you will start to see opportunities to glorify God around every corner.
Theologically sound and convicting in every page, Chasing Famous challenges the reader to pursue God's glory in all things. Whatever stage of life you find yourself in, this book is relevant. Whether a missionary on the field, an actor, or an influential business person, you are uniquely positioned to give God glory where you are. Whatever the situation.
Lloyd provides practical application on how to do just that throughout the book; reflection questions at the end of each chapter prompt further thought. The chapter headings each cleverly related to the acting process, and brought cohesion to the general theme and content of the book.
Certainly a worthwhile read, and a valuable addition to the bookshelf.
Disclaimer: I received a free eARC from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Lloyd chased after fame and success through her professional acting career. She came to the realization that her success was not to be measured by applause but by how well she represented God and glorified Him.
She shares her experiences and the lessons she has learned. She reminds us that our desires for affirmation and success were given by God and He alone can fulfill them. Hers is a good example of a life transformed by God.
This book would be a good one for young women who think they need to find their worth and success in their appearance. Lloyd is very honest in sharing her life experiences and how God has showed her where true success lies. There are questions at the end of each chapter for personal reflection or group use. Lloyd has also included the entire Bible passages she uses so this would be a good book for those unfamiliar with the Bible.
There was one area I found a bit troublesome. Based on what the Bible says at the end of the creation account, Lloyd says we are “very good.” It seems she has forgotten the effects of the Fall. Everyone is not beautiful nor is everyone very good. We are fallen creatures, born in sin. Lloyd does mention the evils of humankind when she writes about human trafficking and forced prostitution. But this is not a theological work. It is more of an encouraging book for those who think about their outer appearance rather than the condition of their spiritual self. Lloyd speaks often of her relationship to God but not about the saving grace of believing in Jesus Christ.
Food for thought: Our purpose on this earth has nothing to do with us and everything to do with Him...
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Litfuse. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Chasing Famous
Living the Life You've Always Auditioned For
by Lisa Lloyd
New Hope Publishers
Christian
Pub Date 03 Apr 2017
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of Chasing Famous through the publisher and Netgalley.
God wants us to use our lives to be a testimante to his fame. He wants our lives to show his love.
We are reminded that we were all born to do something, to be something. We were all created with a purpose in mind. The author also points out success doesn't mean the same thing for everyone.
The author goes on to remind us of using our gifts to glorify God, whatever your gifts maybe.
I give Chasing Famous five out of five stars.
Happy Reading.