NEW BOOK
Notes on an Execution: Lenten Reflections on the Last Days of Jesus
by Rhidian Brook
Experience Holy Week as if for the first time... first hand.
Bestselling novelist and broadcaster Rhidian Brook invites you to step back into the story of Holy Week and see it unfold as if you were there.
Told as a series of vivid, real-time eyewitness reports, Notes on an Execution takes you from Jesus' arrival in Jerusalem to his execution and beyond, without the cushion of hindsight. You stand among the crowds and disciples, experiencing each moment with all its original tension, shock and surprise - full of the confusion and hope felt by those who first encountered Jesus.
A moving final reflection explores what Easter means for us today, with thoughtful questions for personal meditation or group discussion.
Rooted in biblical accounts and historical insight, Notes on an Execution brings fresh life to a story that has shaped the world for two thousand years. Perfect for Lent reading, small groups or personal devotion, it will help you see the story you thought you knew with new eyes... and feel its urgency and wonder afresh.
PRAISE FOR NOTES ON AN EXECUTION
'Rhidian Brook tells the story of Holy Week as you have never heard it before. He draws you into the inner life of the first followers of Jesus, reclaims Christianity as an adventure of the spirit, and brings the whole thing alive again. He is a master storyteller re-narrating the greatest story ever told.' -- Giles Fraser, vicar, broadcaster and author of Chosen: Lost and found between Christianity and Judaism
'In a contemporary informal style this eyewitness account invites the reader to walk with Jesus in his last days and experience anew the power of his resurrection. A vivid retelling which brings fresh life to a familiar story.' -- Richard Harries, former Bishop of Oxford and author of Hearing God in Poetry
'Rhidian's reflections offer a unique and deeply personal lens through which to experience the tumultuous final days of Jesus. By inviting us to "unknow what we know", he masterfully empowers his readers to walk alongside the disciples, feeling the bewilderment, the hope and the eventual sorrow and joy as events unfold. This book is not merely a recounting; it is an invitation to inhabit the story, making it a vital companion for anyone seeking a more immediate and heartfelt understanding of Christ's passion and resurrection.' -- The Most Revd Dr Hosam E. Naoum, Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem
'Rhidian Brook writes with such understanding of the human condition about the Saviour who is both human and God. We find ourselves written into this universal story, and there are questions which must be answered. This interpretation of the Passion opens up new vistas of the soul's journey through life towards death.' -- Richard Sewell, Dean of St George's Cathedral, Jerusalem
'With deft insight and lightness of touch Rhidian Brook lifts the Holy Week story from the reverence of the gospels and the solemnity of liturgy into direct and lively accounts of genuine interaction and moving encounter. This is an ideal account for a newcomer and a refreshing repristination for the over-familiar.' -- Sam Wells, vicar, broadcaster and author of Constructing an Incarnational Theology
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"The problem with Rhidian’s Thoughts is how often I find myself agreeing with him. Most annoying!” - John Humphrys.
“Gems on every page. Witty and entertaining, profound and pithy. I had to ration myself so that I could reflect fully on the beauties contained in the brevity.” - Laurie Mcguire, Professor of English, Magdelane College, Oxford.
“I read the book and thought about giving up doing TftD. Profound, entertaining, wise and funny - this is a masterclass in the genre. I loved this book.” - Nicholas Baines, Bishop of Leeds
“Whatever his subject, Rhidian Brook writes with warmth and humanity. This is a great collection from a wise and reassuring thinker and writer.”- Victoria Hislop, novelist.
‘With gentle humour, this earthy disturber of breakfasts subverts and provokes. Thoughts that will last much longer than a day.’ - Roy Jenkins, broadcaster.
"I hate celebrities, Harry Potter, musicals, tables on pavements outside restaurants, carol singers and Thought for the Day. Unless Rhidian Brook is on. " - Philip Kerr (1956-2018), novelist.
"An absolute treat to find 20 years' worth of Rhidian Brook's 'Thoughts' in one compendium. An oasis of calm reflection in the often bleak landscape of news.” - Christopher Hope, Chief Political Correspondent. The Daily Telegraph
“An alternative history of 21st century Britain. Brook’s still, small, vital voice championing hope, embodied in a Jesus who is ‘way more radical than any politician in history’. - Dylan Moore, author and editor.
“These Thoughts are always compelling and often funny. God is lucky to have Rhidian Brook on His side.”- Miranda France, Author.
“These thoughts are excellent. Rhidian can make the most familiar truths arresting to non-believer and believer alike. They read as well as they sound.” - Richard Harries, Bishop of Oxford (1987-2006)
“I will give this wonderful book to friends to fortify them, to the lazy to challenge them and to the busy to remind them of things more important.”- Rev David Stroud. Senior Minister, Christ Church, London.
“Rhidian writes with style and offers insights that challenge and delight. Most of all he sounds like himself - which is harder to do than you think.” - Christine Morgan, Head of BBC Religion & Ethics
“Rhidian’s thoughts are elegantly crafted with imaginative storytelling and real depth - I always listen and learn - he is one of my favourites.”- Mona Siddiqui, Professor of Islamic and Inter-religious Studies.
‘Gem-like thoughts that sparkle, honouring the sacred in the seemingly banal, challenging societal ills while remaining jovial. A triumph!’- Omid Djalili, comedian and actor.
‘A startlingly profound miscellany of insights into the magic and messiness of everyday life from one of our wisest spiritual and cultural commentators. God be thanked for Rhidian Brook.’ - Dr James Orr. Lecturer in Philosophy of Religion, University of Cambridge
‘Wise and thoughtful, Rhidian’s insightful collection of short-reads is sure to satisfy those seeking more to life – as well as a few who aren’t.’- Liz Earle, entrepreneur and author.
“Thoughts that made me think. Thoughts that make you think.I asked Rhidian to let me do Thought for the Day but he said no!” - Garry Richardson, Today programme sports presenter.