Barbara W. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 10
Those who enjoy sarcastic wit and are not easily offended will love this book. It is really very funny, but is also for adults only due to language and situations. The main character, Biff, is Jesus' best friends throughout their short lives. He tells many a tale that didn't make it into the "final cut" of the Bible. Great humor, some food for thought, and very irreverent. Enjoy!
Cherie (CheriePie) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 149 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 10
This was a funny book. I'm not sure that I liked it as much as Moore's other works, but I guess that's to be expected since I didn't resonate with the Christianity aspect as much as others who follow the religion and know it's history would. However, that being said, I did recognize a few things from what I recall of the story of Jesus, for instance, it was funny the way he worked the walking on water thing into the story at one point, as if it was something Joshua (his real name) did every day. And the way they'd talk, even the Buddhist monks, saying things like, "Just fucking with you..." That was a hoot! A sarcastic and ironic tale, in the manner I've come to expect from Moore. I only hope that Christian fundies didn't get all over his ass for writing this, and took it with the grace and humour with which I'm sure was the author's intent.
KELLY M. (thewoobdog) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 9
This book definitely had moments of hilarity, with a rather 'Monty Python: Life of Brian' feel. Christopher Moore's surprising flashes of insight into human nature give one the sense that the author is poking fun at the entire human race, himself included, and often surprises one into laughing at oneself.
There are also sections where the book seems to drag, like a comic skit that would have been funny for 2 minutes but is monotonous when extended to 10. Thankfully, these sections are the exception rather than the rule - on the whole the book is engaging and humorous, although some might feel that the humor borders on heresy or blasphemy. The overall tone is not one of a writer hell-bent (pun intended) on poking holes in religious belief or angrily attacking people of certain belief systems - rather, it tends to be a humorous and often self-deprecating look at the traditions, origins, and tenets of several spiritual belief systems, and more often than not provokes one to examine the underlying supports of one's own beliefs (or lack thereof).
I can definitely see where Lamb would completely offend the sensibilities of some and seem like the epitome of hilarity to others; for me personally it fell somewhere in between, but I (cautiously!) recommend it as a quick and fun read, if one isn't too sensitive about having one's toes stepped on.
There are also sections where the book seems to drag, like a comic skit that would have been funny for 2 minutes but is monotonous when extended to 10. Thankfully, these sections are the exception rather than the rule - on the whole the book is engaging and humorous, although some might feel that the humor borders on heresy or blasphemy. The overall tone is not one of a writer hell-bent (pun intended) on poking holes in religious belief or angrily attacking people of certain belief systems - rather, it tends to be a humorous and often self-deprecating look at the traditions, origins, and tenets of several spiritual belief systems, and more often than not provokes one to examine the underlying supports of one's own beliefs (or lack thereof).
I can definitely see where Lamb would completely offend the sensibilities of some and seem like the epitome of hilarity to others; for me personally it fell somewhere in between, but I (cautiously!) recommend it as a quick and fun read, if one isn't too sensitive about having one's toes stepped on.
Heather S. (literati) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
Hilarious! Could possibly be seen as sacrilegious because of the topic, but I didn't see it that way: I thought it was great.
carlamo -
Helpful Score: 6
Far and away the most bizarre book I have ever read. I laughed constantly. Definitely not a book for close-minded people, people who take Christianity or Judaism, or well, ANY religion too seriously, people who are easily offended by sexual situations... you get the idea...
Dan T. (ruckus24) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 61 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
It's the story of Jesus Christ as told by his childhood pal Biff. What more could you ask for. It's a near perfect read by one of the best authors writing today.
Teresa G. (tgriffis) -
Helpful Score: 3
I hated this book. Glad I only spent a quarter on it (at a church yard sale no less). I did give it a chance by reading the first 100 pages, but had decided much earlier into the book that this wasn't for me. I was mostly put off by the language in the beginning. I scanned the rest of the book, and it just didn't get any better, in fact worse. I did expect it to stray from the Biblical account of the life of Christ, but just not as far as it did. Sorry, I just can't recommend this book. But it looks like I am in the minority.
Jennifer M. (lpeogirl) -
Helpful Score: 3
This is a story of Biff who was Jesus' best friend. I started laughing and kept laughing until the end. I am sure some people would be offended by the content or language in this book, but just keep in mind it is fiction. It tells stories that are similar to the ones in the Bible but with Biff's perspective.
Kerry K. (mistysmere) -
Helpful Score: 3
A unique look at Christ's life. Biff is a hoot as well as a loyal friend. I laughed my way through this book.
Leslie H. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
If you find challenging your traditional teachings of christinity you might be amused but this book as I was. Christopher Moore imagines the part of the life of Christ that was left out of the bible from the time he was a young boy to his 30th year when the bible picks up. He imaginitively describes Asia, the middle east and the world as it would appear in Christ's time. Very inventive. A good laugh.
Marianne S. (sfc95) -
Helpful Score: 2
this book is hilarious. It is not a fast read as you need to read it slowly enough to catch all of the humor. Don't read it if you are easily offended, whereas I did not find it offensive, I am sure there are people who would believe it is wrong to read or even write about the subject, certainly worth a chance if you like a humorous read but requiring some thinking!
Paula D. (eddiandizosmom) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 134 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Definetly on my all time favorites list.... as is basically everything I've read by this author so far.
Elizabeth F. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 5 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I love this man. Can he get anymore funny. If you liked the movie Dogma you'll love Lamb
Sara H. (pianoducky) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
LOVED this book. I grew up with a strict religious background (though I currently am not a churchy person) and always wondered what happened to Jesus for those 20 some years he's unaccounted for. Now I know :). There were so many times where this book had me laughing out loud; however, I don't think most of my religious friends would find this book as entertaining as I did. Seems "irreverant" has the potential to rub many people the wrong way....not to mention Jesus finding his grounding in eastern religious practices. If you're looking for an entertaining story full of imagination and can handle Jesus Christ as the subject of a hilarious fictional novel, by all means read this book! If you're easily offended and defensive of your beliefs, I'd maybe try something else (well, unless you're the type of person who likes to rant about the downfall of family values and religion in this country, then by all means this could be good fodder for you).
Jason R. (tinnitus) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Outstanding! the best book from the incomparable Christopher Moore to date...
Mary S. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Didn't get through all of this one; it's about the early life of the Son of God as told by his best friend, Biff. What I read was pretty funny.
Sharyla Y. (love2lovebooks) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 74 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
My Rating: A+
This book blew me away. One of the funniest, most heartfelt books I've ever read. It'll make my top reads this year, I know that already. Biff's character is so loyal to Josh that it sometimes brings you to tears. I've never read a book that could so easily make me laugh and cry, in the same paragraph.
This is a comedy, but it's like The Titanic, you know how the story is going to end. The humor reminded me a bit of Good Omens but, in it's very own way. Christopher Moore has quickly made it to the top of my favorite authors list and I can't wait to read another one by him.
Or to re-read Lamb!
This book blew me away. One of the funniest, most heartfelt books I've ever read. It'll make my top reads this year, I know that already. Biff's character is so loyal to Josh that it sometimes brings you to tears. I've never read a book that could so easily make me laugh and cry, in the same paragraph.
This is a comedy, but it's like The Titanic, you know how the story is going to end. The humor reminded me a bit of Good Omens but, in it's very own way. Christopher Moore has quickly made it to the top of my favorite authors list and I can't wait to read another one by him.
Or to re-read Lamb!
Tasula W. (fantasyisbetter) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 113 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
A fabulous, memorable book about two young men (Biff and Jesus Christ)who set out together and have a series of adventures. Read it!
Tammy P. (bookluver-in-sc) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 229 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
A classis Christopher Moore novel. Funny and thought provoking. Very good read.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a delightful story. It is a hybrid of historical fiction and satirical comedy. The writing is fresh, funny, and at the same time, respectful and serious. The author researched the history and culture well, and spun a thoughtful and fun tale of the Gospel According to Biff. This story should be included in everyone's New Testament Canon. I loved it, and highly recommend it. Thanks Amy for loaning me this copy to read!!!!
Angela L. (Angela10angel) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 28 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
SERIOUSLY one of the best books I have ever read! I couldn't put it down...LOVED it!! It's a must read.
Todd K. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 51 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Alternate Gospel, of hilarity!
Tracy B. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Funniest book I have ever read. If you like Moore's work, you can't miss this book!
Liz B. (LizinCA) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Laugh out loud funny!
Rick B. (bup) -
Helpful Score: 1
If you're a religious Christian, and easily offended*, I don't recommend it, but for anyone else, please have at it.
It's humorous and thought-provoking. On the one hand, Moore takes some liberties (inventing a life story for Mary Magdalene, for instance, or having Jesus be the one to say Moses' Law wasn't a big deal, and that gentiles could also be saved, when it was Peter and Paul who did those things). On the other hand, it contains the best explanation of why Jesus dying on the cross would cause God the Father to become the New Testament God, and why that act would save humanity, that I've ever seen. I've never understood why God would save a wicked world because they killed his son. Moore's book might have it right. On still another hand, it makes Jesus a real, believable person that's easy to read about and not intimidating. On another, sometimes the text is so silly it's groan-worthy. On yet another, it's usually not that silly - it's a good kind of funny novel.
And I think I can name all twelve apostles now. I'll never forget Bartholomew again, that's for sure.
*Not for people who think it sacrilege that: Mary had other children, or that Jesus found women attractive, or that Jesus' urine made flowers grow.
It's humorous and thought-provoking. On the one hand, Moore takes some liberties (inventing a life story for Mary Magdalene, for instance, or having Jesus be the one to say Moses' Law wasn't a big deal, and that gentiles could also be saved, when it was Peter and Paul who did those things). On the other hand, it contains the best explanation of why Jesus dying on the cross would cause God the Father to become the New Testament God, and why that act would save humanity, that I've ever seen. I've never understood why God would save a wicked world because they killed his son. Moore's book might have it right. On still another hand, it makes Jesus a real, believable person that's easy to read about and not intimidating. On another, sometimes the text is so silly it's groan-worthy. On yet another, it's usually not that silly - it's a good kind of funny novel.
And I think I can name all twelve apostles now. I'll never forget Bartholomew again, that's for sure.
*Not for people who think it sacrilege that: Mary had other children, or that Jesus found women attractive, or that Jesus' urine made flowers grow.
Tina B. (gpfiregirl) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 54 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
If you are offended by sarcasm, off-color language and hilarious jabs at religion, then don't read this book, because you will most definitely be offended. I started laughing on page one and did not stop until the end. I also had moments where I worried about lightning bolts splitting my hair for me just for reading this one. However, this is NOT a mean-spirited, hateful jab at Christianity - just a very imaginative side of Jesus and his merry band that we've never seen before. If you have an open mind and love a good read, I definitey recommend this one.
Helpful Score: 1
Funny! Refreshing! Even insightful!
Steve C. (Cheese) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 324 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I laughed all the way through this book. There is a lot of tongue-in-cheek humor. I'm looking forward to reading his other books.
Sunny B. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
SUCH a good read. Covers Jesus through the years he is not written about in the bible. About this daily interactions with his best friend, Biff, Mary Magdalene and others. A hilarious view (and non-christian) of the life of Jesus...the forgotten years?!
Lance H. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Very funny book. The humor reminds me of the work of Douglas Adams. Don't read this book if you are offended by blasphemy.
Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 1223 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this alternate gospel of the Christ story. When I first started reading this, I thought it was going to be a blasphemous retelling of the story but it's really not. All of the miracles, deeds, and basic goodness of Joshua (Jesus) remain -- retold by his best friend Levi (called Biff) in a very humorous and, in my view, realistic manner. There were definitely some laugh out loud moments in the story and humor dominates throughout, but what I really liked was how Moore tried to fill in the 30-year gap in Jesus' history. Joshua's and Biff's journey to China and India in search of the 3 wise men kept my interest and could have been a reasonable explanation for the 30-year gap in the story. This is the second Moore novel I have read - the first was Fluke which I also enjoyed. I'll be looking out for more of Moore.
Chris K. (littleacorn) - , reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 43 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is seriously the funniest book ever written!
J. Djinnaya S. (Djinnaya) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 22 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I *loved* this book. I was really touched by the humanizing aspect of it, and I rolled around in peels of laughter in parts of it. A year later, my son and I still quote the funny parts.
John O. (buzzby) -
Helpful Score: 1
Well, I suppose it was funny, in an adolescent way. But there's nothing very profound in this book, only a series of one-liners. It does help me realize why I get a feeling of holiness every time I'm in the St. Louis Hyatt Regency
Stephanie H. (luvtink81) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 32 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The story really held my attention and was funny, and just an overall great book. However, if you are easily offended, this book is probably not for you; otherwise, I highly recommend it.
Kim A. (mermaid593) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was hilarous!! I loved it.
Brandi W. (pinksparkleme) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 5 more book reviews
Laugh-til-you-snort funny! The story is told from the angle of Biff, best friend of Jesus Christ (known to him as Joshua). He is brought back to life and locked in a modern day hotel room with a soap-opera addicted angel to write his Gospel, as he is dismayed to find out he was largely left out of the original gospels. In this book he recounts hilarious tales of growing up with the Messiah. I can't recommend this book highly enough!
this guy is great! Funny throughout and yet makes sense too.
Emily P. (mizparker) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 87 more book reviews
This book is absolutely hysterical! I won't be re-posting, as this is one I will keep to lend out and re-read. The story is that Levi "Biff", having been left out of the bible, is resurrected in present times to write his own gospel. Since the bible jumps from Jesus Christ being a child of about twelve to a man of thirty without any explanation of the interim years, Biff decides that he is going to fill in the details of what happened during that time, since he was there. The story follows Jesus and Biff on a quest to find the three wise men that attended Christ's birth, to learn what they can teach him about becoming the messiah. It's funny, touching, fascinating, intelligent, and not so irreverent that I think most people wouldn't really enjoy it. I would recommend this to anyone!
On a "secret" post in a book community, somebody said this book did more for their faith than reading the Bible, Church, and all the Bible Studies they'd ever done. I can see why.
This book is written from the point of view of Levi (who is called Biff), Joshua's childhood pal. Jesus original name was Yeshua and the author decided to use a more familiar form "Joshua". This, of course, helps bring the story closer to a modern reader. The author pulled from many of the Apocryphal texts, including the infancy gospels, for the childhood of Jesus. It is a story, though, so it moves away from the Bible.
Biff fills in the thirty years that weren't written about in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. A lot of people have made the conjecture that maybe Jesus went to the Orient and even further up north during that time. The author goes along with this. Those who are familiar with the teachings of Jesus and have studied other religions may have found similarities themselves between His teachings and others, such as Buddhism.
It, of course, goes on to describe when Jesus gathers followers, the Last Supper, and the Crucifixion. The book takes on a much more somber tone during the trial and Crucifixion
The reader should be warned of foul language and some questionable scenes. It is also a humorous book and not to be taken seriously. Personally, I felt that the book gave a little more humanity to the Savior that many people find unrelatable.
This book is written from the point of view of Levi (who is called Biff), Joshua's childhood pal. Jesus original name was Yeshua and the author decided to use a more familiar form "Joshua". This, of course, helps bring the story closer to a modern reader. The author pulled from many of the Apocryphal texts, including the infancy gospels, for the childhood of Jesus. It is a story, though, so it moves away from the Bible.
Biff fills in the thirty years that weren't written about in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. A lot of people have made the conjecture that maybe Jesus went to the Orient and even further up north during that time. The author goes along with this. Those who are familiar with the teachings of Jesus and have studied other religions may have found similarities themselves between His teachings and others, such as Buddhism.
It, of course, goes on to describe when Jesus gathers followers, the Last Supper, and the Crucifixion. The book takes on a much more somber tone during the trial and Crucifixion
The reader should be warned of foul language and some questionable scenes. It is also a humorous book and not to be taken seriously. Personally, I felt that the book gave a little more humanity to the Savior that many people find unrelatable.
Carol K. (cadkirsh) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 5 more book reviews
clever, funny, and unconventional. Definitely not for conservative Christians.
Yvonne M. S. (woodworm) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 92 more book reviews
Funny, bright and sometimes crude story of Christ during the formative years.
Danielle P. (dani22) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 3 more book reviews
Easily one of my all-time favorite Moore books. Very intelligent and entertaining. Doesn't matter what your religious background is, you will probably be offended and educated in some capacity. But that is what Moore does so well!
plowednyc reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 7 more book reviews
I've read a few Christopher Moore books, this is by far my favorite (to date). Funny, clever, fast paced, intelligent read. you'll enjoy it (regardless of your faith)
SUSAN S. (susieqmillsacoustics) -
Very irreverent but quite hilarious. An entertaining read.
Cass G. (Jrzy) -
I thought Christopher Moore was a funny, funny writer until I read this. Now I know he is positively hysterical! This is a well-researched, poignant, FUNNY book! Please read it, you will love it!
This was a very fun, light read! I found myself smiling while I was reading it. You'll enjoy!
Crystal S. (crytal) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 155 more book reviews
This was my pick for our book club read. I thought this book was great. It was entertaining and well researched. I was out of town for a training while reading it and opened the hotel provided Bible to compare a few things that were going on in the story. Moore has this great ability to suck you into what you're reading that you want to believe that this really was a missing gospel and how Joshua(Jesus) really grew up.
Hilarious story covering the 'missing years' of Jesus' life. Some might consider it blasphemy, but I laughed out loud several times reading this. Moore is one of my favourite authors and this has to be my favourite of his books.
Irreverent and hilarious!
Christine B. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 4 more book reviews
I have read many of Christopher Moore's books and this is the best of them all. It is very irreverent so it is not for the religious "faint of heart" but for the reader it is a great ride.
Jan A. (janniebug57) -
My favorite Christopher Moore book so far, closely followed by "Fool." Manages to be poignant, irreverent and funny all at the same time.
Michelle M. (mrmullin) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 5 more book reviews
Very interesting idea! It's fun to see what someone thinks may have happened during those missing years of Christ's life. Parts of the book are very moving, parts are a bit campy. Christ's friend, Bif, partakes in a lot of sex, which kind of distracts from the story I think. It's not pornographic, and it's not overwhelming, just a bit campy and unecessary at parts. The ending is a surprise twist, and the overall story is very good. Actually makes me want to go read the Gospel!
Jeanne B. (wingsfan) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 43 more book reviews
Crazy fun book
Claire L. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 21 more book reviews
fun and funny. a little on the annoying side.
Kathryn G. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 53 more book reviews
Funny and entertaining - irreverent.
Melissa R. (MelKaye) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 12 more book reviews
What a brilliant book! It dragged a bit at the end as it tied into "true" biblical stories. It may have been more engaging if I remembered the references from my days in Sunday School. =)
Judy D. (littlebear) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 7 more book reviews
Fun read.
Sharon D. (dulcimer42) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 107 more book reviews
Purely fiction, but this is supposed to be a story of Jesus' (Known by his "real name" Joshua, nicknamed Josh) written by his best friend (BFF, called Biff). I am a Christian and I loved this book. Remember Jesus was fully God and fully man. This book pertains mainly to his human side, as a boy. Although all through the book he claims to be the Son of God. If you are easily offended by humor in the fictitious life of Jesus, like when he healed a lizard by putting it in his mouth, better not read this book. This author writes a disclaimer at the end of the book , if your faith can be challenged by a book of fiction, maybe you have a little more praying to do. There are some deep thought herein. There is also some near profanity. But it helped me see what Jesus had to go through, from his human side. Yes, I'd recommend it. But don't take it too seriously.
Terrence W. (770days) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 58 more book reviews
I had to read this. Moores Practical Demonkeeping was fabulous, and Ive been itching to read this for several years now. This is just sheer funny. Highly entertaining, super fun silliness. Recommended for everyone.
Sue K. (Bossmare) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 306 more book reviews
This was a funny book, sad at the end but we all know the outcome.
Carol P. (wifer) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 80 more book reviews
This is one of the funniest books I've ever read. I think I was laughing out loud in the first chapter. I had to keep stopping and read passages out loud to my husband - he wanted to know what was so funny. I thought the middle part dragged a bit but it was definitely a fun read. I would not recommend this book to anyone who is not able to look at the humorous (and sometimes crude) side of religion. Carol
Nicole S. (wryter) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 12 more book reviews
One of my top five favorite books I've read. If you like this one, try Good Omens by Neil Gaimen and Terry Pratchett. Soooo funny!
Very funny!
Kimberly K. (bookpusher) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 88 more book reviews
I loved this book, absolutly histerical
Nancy L. (NancyAZ) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 95 more book reviews
This is my second Christopher Moore book. Lamb is cleverly written and quite humorous, although not as humorous as A Dirty Job. It gets bogged down a little in the middle of the book but overall a very enjoyable read. I do not think it was offensive to the Christian religion at all. It is simply a story of what might have happened to Jesus as a young boy. Great imagination Chris!
Susan R. (Sue-in-AZ) -
I just couldn't get into this book - it never clicked for me. Maybe because at its heart it's a "guy" book?
Karen A. (karn818) - , reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 85 more book reviews
Very funny. Belly laughed a lot reading this one. I loved the sarcasm! But I imagine the subject matter & the way it was written may be offensive to some. I really enjoyed it!
Jennifer P. (jenners) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 121 more book reviews
I'm trying to be more creative in how I review books. This time, I'm writing a love letter to the author because I have a super huge crush on his writing style, ideas and sense of humor.
Dear Christopher Moore:
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways:
1. You make me laugh. Out loud. A lot.
2. You make me think.
3. You are irreverent but in a respectful wayânot an easy one to pull off but you manage to do it.
4. Despite all the joking, you manage to inject true moments of emotional truth and human kindness into your books.
5. You are playful and imaginative.
6. You are kind of cute from what I've seen of your author photos.
Well, let's not get carried away here or Mr. Jenners will begin to wonder.
Why am I writing this love note to you? Well, I read what must be your magnum opus, Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal. What audacity to write a Fifth Gospelâand to have it narrated by Biff, the inventor of sarcasm and a sex fiend! It must have been a tricky balancing act to be that irreverent yet respectful at the same time. Yet you did it! I bet you sometimes wondered if you were going to be able to pull it off and if the type of people who protest movies like The Last Temptation of Christ would protest your book without reading it.
It is a shame if people choose not to read this book because of your reputation as a prankster, a wit, and a satirist. Because this book is not only well-researched, conceived and executed, but it make someone who has turned away from organized religion (me) rethink one of the central figures of her childhoodâJesus Christ. (I'm glad you chose to call Him Josh in the book because that nameâJesusâis so loaded, you know?) I loved how you managed to retell the story of Jesus in a way that got His central messages across yet made him very very human. It made Him come alive for me in a way that was relatable and real. (But I still can't put His name in lower case letters. Old habits and years of Catholic school are to blame for that.)
Your idea to write a Fourth Gospel to fill in the gaps that exist in the New Testamentâthe time between His birth and when His ministry beginsâwas inspired and brilliant. I love that you chose to have Josh/Jesus track down the three wise men who visited him in the manger. That journey and His subsequent exposure to the religions of the Eastern world made a lot of sense. I loved seeing Him practice yoga, learn the art of meditation and seek enlightenment like the Buddha. By tying His young adulthood to an exploration of other religions like Buddhism and Hinduism made a lot of sense. Much like my grandmother began to believe that The DaVinci Code was a non-fiction book, I began to buy into your theory that Jesus spent his early years exploring other great spiritual teachers and practices. It just makes sense! And when He reaches the end of his journey and distills what he has learned into a radical new way of thinking, I felt a renewed respect for His teachings.
Biff would have hated how things surrounding Him have gotten muddled. In my opinion, too many people seem to have forgotten what His central message was about: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The fact the virtually every religion in the world has some form of this Golden Rule just adds credence to your concept of having Him learn and incorporate aspects of the Eastern religions into His teachings.
I also love that you made Mary Magdalene (Maggie) such an important character in the book. I think she's gotten a bad rap over the years so it was good to see her presented in a more reasonable and human fashion.
But let's talk about Biff. It was a stroke of genius to have His sidekick/best friend/companion be this amazingly fun, sarcastic, bawdy characterâthe perfect foil for Him. I love how Biff brings Him down to earth. Biff's good-natured ribbing about the whole mustard seed analogy and fishers of men was priceless. I love how you used Biff to let your imagination go wild. The section about the Kama Sutra was hilarious. When Biff and Kashmir try the positions of "Rhinoceros Balancing A Jelly Donut" or "Distracted Tiger Hacking Up a Fur Ball," I was giggling like a fool.
You really outdid yourself with this book, and I sincerely wish everyone with an open mind and a sense of humor would give it a try. Books like this don't come along often in life and should not be missed. I think you summed it up perfectly in your Author's Blessing at the start of the book:
If you have come to these pages for laughter, may you find it.
If you are here to be offended, may your ire rise and your blood boil.
If you seek an adventure, may this story sing you away to blissful escape.
If you need to test or confirm your beliefs, may you reach comfortable conclusions.
All books reveal perfection, by what they are or what they are not.
May you find that which you seek, in these pages or outside them.
May you find perfection, and know it by name.
To me, you achieved perfection with this book. Five stars, Mr. Moore, and a permanent spot on my list of favorite authors.
Love,
Jenners
Dear Christopher Moore:
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways:
1. You make me laugh. Out loud. A lot.
2. You make me think.
3. You are irreverent but in a respectful wayânot an easy one to pull off but you manage to do it.
4. Despite all the joking, you manage to inject true moments of emotional truth and human kindness into your books.
5. You are playful and imaginative.
6. You are kind of cute from what I've seen of your author photos.
Well, let's not get carried away here or Mr. Jenners will begin to wonder.
Why am I writing this love note to you? Well, I read what must be your magnum opus, Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal. What audacity to write a Fifth Gospelâand to have it narrated by Biff, the inventor of sarcasm and a sex fiend! It must have been a tricky balancing act to be that irreverent yet respectful at the same time. Yet you did it! I bet you sometimes wondered if you were going to be able to pull it off and if the type of people who protest movies like The Last Temptation of Christ would protest your book without reading it.
It is a shame if people choose not to read this book because of your reputation as a prankster, a wit, and a satirist. Because this book is not only well-researched, conceived and executed, but it make someone who has turned away from organized religion (me) rethink one of the central figures of her childhoodâJesus Christ. (I'm glad you chose to call Him Josh in the book because that nameâJesusâis so loaded, you know?) I loved how you managed to retell the story of Jesus in a way that got His central messages across yet made him very very human. It made Him come alive for me in a way that was relatable and real. (But I still can't put His name in lower case letters. Old habits and years of Catholic school are to blame for that.)
Your idea to write a Fourth Gospel to fill in the gaps that exist in the New Testamentâthe time between His birth and when His ministry beginsâwas inspired and brilliant. I love that you chose to have Josh/Jesus track down the three wise men who visited him in the manger. That journey and His subsequent exposure to the religions of the Eastern world made a lot of sense. I loved seeing Him practice yoga, learn the art of meditation and seek enlightenment like the Buddha. By tying His young adulthood to an exploration of other religions like Buddhism and Hinduism made a lot of sense. Much like my grandmother began to believe that The DaVinci Code was a non-fiction book, I began to buy into your theory that Jesus spent his early years exploring other great spiritual teachers and practices. It just makes sense! And when He reaches the end of his journey and distills what he has learned into a radical new way of thinking, I felt a renewed respect for His teachings.
Biff would have hated how things surrounding Him have gotten muddled. In my opinion, too many people seem to have forgotten what His central message was about: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The fact the virtually every religion in the world has some form of this Golden Rule just adds credence to your concept of having Him learn and incorporate aspects of the Eastern religions into His teachings.
I also love that you made Mary Magdalene (Maggie) such an important character in the book. I think she's gotten a bad rap over the years so it was good to see her presented in a more reasonable and human fashion.
But let's talk about Biff. It was a stroke of genius to have His sidekick/best friend/companion be this amazingly fun, sarcastic, bawdy characterâthe perfect foil for Him. I love how Biff brings Him down to earth. Biff's good-natured ribbing about the whole mustard seed analogy and fishers of men was priceless. I love how you used Biff to let your imagination go wild. The section about the Kama Sutra was hilarious. When Biff and Kashmir try the positions of "Rhinoceros Balancing A Jelly Donut" or "Distracted Tiger Hacking Up a Fur Ball," I was giggling like a fool.
You really outdid yourself with this book, and I sincerely wish everyone with an open mind and a sense of humor would give it a try. Books like this don't come along often in life and should not be missed. I think you summed it up perfectly in your Author's Blessing at the start of the book:
If you have come to these pages for laughter, may you find it.
If you are here to be offended, may your ire rise and your blood boil.
If you seek an adventure, may this story sing you away to blissful escape.
If you need to test or confirm your beliefs, may you reach comfortable conclusions.
All books reveal perfection, by what they are or what they are not.
May you find that which you seek, in these pages or outside them.
May you find perfection, and know it by name.
To me, you achieved perfection with this book. Five stars, Mr. Moore, and a permanent spot on my list of favorite authors.
Love,
Jenners
Angi R. (Funnel) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 38 more book reviews
Very funny!
Robert M. (KazooBob) -
Very, very funny.
Janice W. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 14 more book reviews
What a kick! Great read - had me laughing until I was crying.
Sharon G. (mustangsharon) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 84 more book reviews
LOVE LOVE LOVE this book, LOL funny. I grew up with 4 younger brothers and the friendship between Bif and Joshua is spot on for a boy growing up in modern times and I am sure was not much different in the time of Jesus. Mr. Moore treated Joshua with reverence and respect, he was never the butt of the joke, that was all on Biff and some of the other Apostles, Romans and Pharisees. You must have a sense of humor to read this book and you might just get a bit butt hurt if you are a rigid Bible toting conservative Christian. As Mr. Moore stated, this is not meant to be a historical reference but a possible, semi plausible, might have been kinda this almost accurate look at what it may have been like to grow up the Son of God. Completely funny, tug at your heartstrings, sad at times and even thought provoking good time. I was truly sad the story ended, but as you know, it did end the way the Bible said it did.
Karrie S. (kstew1622) reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 11 more book reviews
This is my 1st Christopher Moore book and I loved it! I actually laughed out loud numerous times which I've never done with a fiction book (Memior yes, fiction no). This is a funny telling of Jesus's missing teenage years as well as into his 20's. A must read if you love humor that hits you out of nowhere!
Linda W. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 62 more book reviews
Very cute. It was a fun read.
Kathy F. reviewed Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal on + 6 more book reviews
Funny adaptation!
