My first published book was written several years ago for an academic audience. It was not intended to be perfect nor to reshape the landscape of Biblical studies.
Published originally by Pickwick Press, it was picked up for renewed publication by James Clarke, Co. - Cambridge, it was up for new review by other Scholars.
One reviewer hated it.
A few professional colleagues touched base with me before I had read the review. The reviewer's critique, in their estimation, went beyond a book review to personal attack. Being contacted by professional friends before reading the review was nice as it was disappointing to read the biting critique from the reviewer.
I am thankful that I was able to review other Scholarly Reviews of my book in the previous (non-Cambridge) editions. Others had noted positive points and contributions from my work, alongside their critical review. A reminder that my work, though imperfect, is not a failure in the perspective of every Scholar.
Perhaps someday I'll have the opportunity to meet the reviewer who hated my work in order to share relational grace and charity with him. I believe we could be friends. I read about him on the internet. I believe we share core ideas about the charitable extension of Grace made available to our world.
It's also nice to know that my 2nd Book invites me to look beyond the accolades of the Academy for prestige - as I seek to Love God and Love Others in all that I do. I'm sure my 2nd book has failings, too . . . and in spite of those typos or errors, I believe the message of the Greatest Commandment is clear enough for all to discern!
Published originally by Pickwick Press, it was picked up for renewed publication by James Clarke, Co. - Cambridge, it was up for new review by other Scholars.
One reviewer hated it.
A few professional colleagues touched base with me before I had read the review. The reviewer's critique, in their estimation, went beyond a book review to personal attack. Being contacted by professional friends before reading the review was nice as it was disappointing to read the biting critique from the reviewer.
I am thankful that I was able to review other Scholarly Reviews of my book in the previous (non-Cambridge) editions. Others had noted positive points and contributions from my work, alongside their critical review. A reminder that my work, though imperfect, is not a failure in the perspective of every Scholar.
Perhaps someday I'll have the opportunity to meet the reviewer who hated my work in order to share relational grace and charity with him. I believe we could be friends. I read about him on the internet. I believe we share core ideas about the charitable extension of Grace made available to our world.
It's also nice to know that my 2nd Book invites me to look beyond the accolades of the Academy for prestige - as I seek to Love God and Love Others in all that I do. I'm sure my 2nd book has failings, too . . . and in spite of those typos or errors, I believe the message of the Greatest Commandment is clear enough for all to discern!
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