Simon of Cyrene is well known because of his carrying the cross when Jesus was too weak, but little else is known about this man. In The Last Man at the Inn, R. William Bennett writes what Simon’s life could have been like.

The book paints an idea of what it could have been like for someone that was able to observe Jesus at the different points in His life. Simon goes from skeptical to believing, much as people do today. His life illustrates how many Christians experienced salvation, or even how they once viewed the whole idea of Jesus. There were many of Simon’s reactions that I could identify with. His guilt over being selfish made me wonder if I have unnecessarily put people out so that I could maintain my level of comfort.

Though this is a fictional account, the gospel message is accurately told. The teachings of Jesus are clear, and the message of His death and resurrection is proclaimed. It is a good book to read, and comes with a message everyone needs to hear.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.