I took some time this morning to finish up my reading of Mark A. Granquist's upcoming release "A History of Christianity in America," a journey through the history of American Christianity that is remarkably comprehensive yet feels relaxed and accessible and remarkably engaging.

I will admit that one of the ways I quietly judge a book on Christian history is by how much of my eclectic theological journey is reflected in it. I was constantly amazed at how often Granquist acknowledged pieces of my own background that seldom make their way into books on religious history. From my childhood in Jehovah's Witnesses to my years engaged with Vineyard Christian Fellowship to my dabbling in Unitarian-Universalism, New Thought, and others, Granquist has a good majority of it here. For several years, I was licensed in Church of the Brethren ministry - it's here. Finally, and perhaps most familiar, I'm now a member of a Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) here in Indianapolis and, of course, it's referenced throughout Granquist's writing.

Granquist's writing understands that the story of Christianity in America is fascinating, complex, and filled with a myriad of twists and turns. "A History of Christianity in America" strikes me as a remarkable place to begin the deep dive into American Christianity and would be a marvelous option for college religion programs. It is, at least for me, perhaps a little too introductory level for seminaries, however, I'll also acknowledge that Granquist does an amazing job of explaining how different threads connect and how certain divisions happened.

As someone who was reading an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC), I wasn't privy to what will eventually be a myriad of illustrative elements - images, maps, and timelines. However, Granquist incorporates a variety of letters and sidebars that are beautifully used and so helpful.

Granquist speaks to both conservative and progressive elements of Christianity. He explores three centuries of American religious life including African-American communities, European denominations, and the various issues (slavery, peace, the changing roles of women) influencing American Christianity.

If there's a lacking, I'd have wished for at least some diving into the disability community and religion - just about the only community ignored here.

This relatively minor quibble aside, this is a remarkable collection that is engaging, informative, and comprehensively resourced. In fact, I've already started diving into the resources. Granquist writes in a way that is clear, concise, insightful, and seems to not be shaped by his own beliefs but finds its roots in actual history.

While a book on Christian history in America may not be for everyone, this 400-page journey will please anyone interested in the subject or anyone who really wants to explore where it all began, where it's been, where it is, and where it seems to be going.

Highly recommend.