Cindy J. (cindyj) - reviewed on 8/10/2015 + 62 more book reviews

Shadow of the Mountain: Exodus is a fictional portrayal of events in the life of Caleb, one of only two Israelites who left Egypt when over the age of 20 and actually entered the Promised Land after 40 years of wilderness wandering. In his "Note to the Reader", author Cliff Graham acknowledges that he has "taken a considerable amount of license" as well as having "taken the liberty of creating a backstory" for Caleb. (7) Mr. Graham also reminds the reader that his book "is a work of fiction. Please treat it as such." (8)

Caleb's story is primarily told through events he relates to Othniel, his nephew, who has finally gathered the courage to ask questions regarding the Exodus and other portions of Caleb's life. The book is well-written and action-packed. There are excellent, albeit occasionally graphic, descriptions. Although the book is a work of fiction, there are life lessons throughout. Caleb acknowledges the need for knowing how to fight various enemies, even when not currently at war with them. "But one day you may find yourself on the plains grappling with the Sea People, and if you do, you must know how to fight them, for they are chariot masters of the first order." (90) Caleb also believes "[a] man needs an allegiance. He must have a cause and an identity that lays claim over him and compels him to pick up a plow to cultivate it or a sword to defend it." (219) Caleb proved his bravery multiple times throughout the story yet acknowledges that "[a] man can be brave and accomplish much, but his fate is only ever in the hand of Yahweh." (236) There isn't much information in the Bible about Caleb, and although we may wish we had more details about events in the Bible, God only inspired a certain amount to be written. At one point in Shadow of the Mountain: Exodus, Caleb asks Othniel to read from scripture (a scroll) about the plagues because "I wish to hear it from the hand of Moses, for that is how Yahweh wanted it to be heard." (206)

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it is a work of fiction, there is also truth that can be gleaned from its pages. I would definitely recommend it to those readers who do not have a weak stomach when reading graphic descriptions of war battles. The entire story penned by Mr. Graham was believable and captivating.

I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details