Are The Chosen Books Any Good?

The Chosen is hitting movie theaters, and there is a buzz in the air. As many viewers go to the movies and others eagerly await the release of the episodes of Season 5 on Amazon Prime, we're taking a look at the Chosen books. What are readers saying about book adaptations by author Jerry B. Jenkins?

First, if you’re not aware

4.8 stars on 297 Amazon reviews

The Chosen books, written by bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins (co-author of the Left Behind series), are novelizations based on the hit television series created by his son, Dallas Jenkins. The books expand on the characters, settings, and moments fans have come to love, offering deeper insights into the lives of those who follow Jesus and the cultural context of first-century Judea.

Who would want to get them?

  • Fans of the Left Behind series are likely to enjoy stepping back in time with their favorite author, known for writing Christian Future Fiction.

  • Anyone who wants to learn more about the time in which Jesus and the disciples lived will find that the books drill deeper.

  • Anyone who loves the characters from the television series will enjoy the added details and backstory given in the books.

  • Those who want to support the series and its mission will want to add these to their collection.

  • Parents who want to inspire their kids to read—and give them something that will enrich their walk with God, can’t go wrong with these exciting books.

Are they any good?

Many readers say yes. Fans appreciate Jenkins' ability to flesh out the backstories of characters like Mary Magdalene, Simon Peter, and Matthew the tax collector. The writing is accessible, emotionally resonant, and faithful to the themes of the show. Each book closely follows the events of a particular season, adding subtle layers of character motivation and inner thought that are sometimes only hinted at on-screen.

What are readers saying?

4.9 stars on 565 Amazon reviews

On Goodreads and Amazon, readers are praising the books for bringing fresh perspective and emotional depth to biblical events. The books are described as “easy to read,” “well-written,” and “a perfect companion to the show.” Some readers new to The Chosen have even discovered the series through the books.

Of course, like any adaptation, the books take some creative liberties. While grounded in Scripture, they blend historical fiction and dramatized storytelling to fill in the gaps. Readers looking for a strict theological commentary might be disappointed, but those open to a narrative-driven experience tend to walk away inspired.

In short, if you're a fan of The Chosen series and want to dive deeper into the characters and their journeys, the books by 21-times New York Times Bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins are well worth a read. They’re engaging, thoughtful, and crafted with the same spirit that has made the show a global phenomenon.

Final Thought

Are you familiar with the series? What project do you hope Dallas Jenkins will work on after he is done with The Chosen? What would you like to see Dallas and his team bring to life on the television and movie screen?

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