The novel is divided into eight books, or parts, each with its own subchapters. Book one opens with the story of the three biblical Magi, who arrive in Bethlehem to hear the news of Christ's birth. Readers meet the fictional character of Judah for the first time in book two, when his childhood friend Messala, also a fictional character, returns home as an ambitious commanding officer of the Roman legions. The teen-aged boys come to realize that they have changed and hold very different views and aspirations. When a loose ...
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The novel is divided into eight books, or parts, each with its own subchapters. Book one opens with the story of the three biblical Magi, who arrive in Bethlehem to hear the news of Christ's birth. Readers meet the fictional character of Judah for the first time in book two, when his childhood friend Messala, also a fictional character, returns home as an ambitious commanding officer of the Roman legions. The teen-aged boys come to realize that they have changed and hold very different views and aspirations. When a loose tile is accidentally dislodged from the roof of Judah's house during a military parade and strikes the Roman governor, knocking him from his horse, Messala falsely accuses Judah of attempted assassination.
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We've love the 1959 movie, watch it yearly and finally decided we wanted to read an unabridged copy of the book (unabridged-not easy to find) especially because we know a descendant of Lew Wallace. Anyway, this read will be slow going for those who want a fast paced page turner. Wallace' word usage and style are those of the 1800's - but if you have patience and perseverance you will be treated to a terrific story and a narration that will really take you back to those ancient times.
Mary P
Sep 3, 2010
A Wonderful Tale
The book is my very favorite of all the books I have ever read and I have bought some of the books to give on special occasions. This is a book that everyone needs to read in my opinion.