I want to briefly tell you about a stunningly original book, an example of an unusual and rare commitment on the part of an evangelical publisher, the new coffee-table sized gift book by Rob Bell, Drops Likes Stars (Zondervan; $34.95;  see blog special price, below.)  I have to tell you that I’m not going to tell you what that title means, but you will know by the end of the 150 + page book.

The book is arranged much like some of his other boyant and interesting titles, but, well, more so.  That is, there is just one sentence on some pages, super-graphics, or tiny print, a second color or typeface, or even a scrawl or two (when he mentions that, after spraining his writing hand, he tried to write with the other for a while but it didn’t work out so well.)  There are full color photos, some rather lovely, a few of stunning art works (including one of the most vivid full shots of The David you’ll see outside of a Michelangelo art book.)  The graphics are half the joy of this moving work, this large-sized bookish equilivalent to a quirky Nooma video, with a lot of white space, which helps the eye really see…

The subtitle is important: A Few Thoughts on Creativity and Suffering.  I can hardly explain more without spoiling the experience, but this art book is a designed presentation of what seems like a Rob Bell sermon.  It is actually the companion book to a small tour he did, taking this show on the road, exploring this endlessly complex relationship between art and generativity.  It includes some Bible, some stories, some rock song lyrics, a poetry shard, an analogy or two, a quote from a contemporary artist and a funny movie quote.  A story about Johnny Cash. One about Pope John Paul.  A tender story about a child full of wonder.  All presented with very  21st century artistic visual aesthetic.

Is it therefore postmodern? Pu-leese.  It is just a very cool gift book, a coffee table resource, a book with pictures.  An allusive book with hipster design.  A wonderful story, asking about how our suffering can be redeemed, if we can be bored of life, if we can find new passion to live meaningfully, even artfully, amidst the dross and strang fo these times.

If we can see drops like stars. 

Is there a relationship between creativity and suffering?  Is our sad human condition somehow met by the God of the Bible?  Can we embrace prophetic imagination and wonder and joy, even as we lament and experience ache and brokenness?

We want to share this brand new book now, as it will be a blessing to many.  My hunch is because it is a bit unusual–the provocative design and higher price-point—-it will not be on the best-seller list of most Christian bookstores.  We want to sell it considerably reduced price, hoping you will enjoy it, ponder it, perhaps give it.

Here is an article that was in the Christian Century that explains Bell’s appeal  Here is an interesting interview from Christianity Today. His entry at Wikipedia is a good introduction, with a long list of links, including some that are critical.  Check ’em out.