As you may have noticed, I’ve been reading quite a bit of ‘Inspirational Fiction.’ While this typically isn’t something I read, I will admit that my favorite author is Grace Livingston Hill. I’ll even admit to owning all but a couple of her books – mostly first editions. That’s how much I enjoy her writing.
However, there are times that inspirational fiction just irks me. The authors I read seem to have this general ‘Christian’ person who does little wrong, admits to their disobedience, and always rights their imperfections by the end of the book. They attend a terrific God-fearing church, their friends are of the same faith, and work with ethical Christian people. (Mind you there are some deviations but this seems to be a general theme in what I’ve been reading.)
While I understand that fiction is well, fiction, what I don’t understand is why it seems that every person who is a Christian in Inspirational fiction does what’s ‘right.’
People just aren’t like that! I live and work in an area that is primarily comprised of Christian & Mennonite folks. I watch them daily and some days – I just don’t see the difference. They get drunk. They lie. They cheat. They’re unethical.
Think about it – when you go to work or see other Christians at a restaurant, do you really see a huge difference?
Now, I’m not saying that all Christians are hypocritical – a majority aren’t. But I think that that the Christians that act in these ways should be accounted for in the fiction we read. I’d like to see those people who we attend church with and then see falling down drunk, abusing their families, or stealing from work accounted also.
I will admit that I read to escape from the stress and to move into my own fictional world but I’d also like to see those people who I deal with everyday accounted for also. I’m not saying that they should get their comeuppance every time – though it’d be nice. I’m just saying that dealing with the ‘righteous holier than thou Christians’ who well, aren’t is a part of the daily life of most people — why haven’t I seen them in the novels I read?
What are your thoughts? Am I just picking up the wrong books?
Welll…
I read to escape.
I like to read characters who inspire me.
Maybe some CF writers write to inspire Christians to do good?
Maybe you should read some edgier CF writers who are more honest about their characters flaws?
That's why I love Mary Connealy.
Her characters make mistakes and make me laugh.
Yes! Yes! Yes! I want more characters that act like me (which ain't perfect!).
Have you read any of Julie Lessman's stories, Gina?
LOL. Rereading your post, I should clarify, I'm not an alcoholic, or a thief, and I don't abuse my family…but I'm definitely not as sweet as some of the characters in CF. 🙂
Juju, I read to escape as well it's just that for some reason I prefer my fiction to be a bit more realistic. It's funny that you mention Mary Connealy – she's the author that brought this to my attention. Reading 'The Husband Tree' after all of the other CF books clarified for me why I remain unsatisfied with CF. I loved that book and the characters in it. I know that I'll search out her books.
Joy, I knew what you meant!
I'm not perfect and I don't enjoy reading the stories of those who are. I've read a few and I'll absolutely pull Julie Lessman, I've not heard of her before.
I will admit that it's often easier for me to believe the 'perfect community' scenario when reading historical than contemporary. Maybe that's why I gravitate to historicals.
Gina: I feel ya Gina 🙂
Joy: I've been meaning to try Julie 🙂 I have one of her books sitting on my shelf right now actually 🙂 Do you recommend one over the others?