Recently released, Joe Wenke’s newest publication, You Got to Be Kidding! The Cultural Arsonist’s Literal Reading of the Bible, is a fun and hilarious combination of commentary and synopsis of each book of the bible. When the subtitle says a “literal” reading of the bible the cover doesn’t lie. Despite wishy-washy Christians’ attempts at arguing that the bible isn’t to be taken literally, or that it takes a learned scholar of religion to decipher the stories of the bible, Joe shows that even a childhood Catholic can skillfully read and question the meaning behind the bible. For instance, when taking the reader through the story of Issac’s and Rebekah sons, Esau and Jacob, and their rivalry, he is exasperated by Esau’s stupidity. He pokes fun of Esau’s foolish decision to trade his birthright to his brother, Jacob, for a bowl of stew because he was hungry.
Throughout the book, Joe points out discrepancies and oddities in the bible, such as the contradictory stories of Jesus’ resurrection and in one particular chapter he poses some very interesting and funny questions. One in particular is about God’s test for adultery. Joe asks, “Has anybody tried this test to see I it still works? Is it available online? Do you get your money back if it doesn’t work?”
With it’s lighthearted humor, some thought-provoking questions, and it’s easily accessible format, this little book could be thought of as the Cliff Notes version of the bible, only much more enjoyable.
A Special Gift for the First Four Participants
With the publication of this review, I’ve been given four copies to give away to anyone who would like to take a peek at this recently released book. The first four people to email me with a mailing address (postage paid) will receive a free copy of You Got to Be Kidding!
