N.Y. Author Offers Christian Alternative to 'Potter'
Thursday, Jul. 26, 2007 Posted: 5:29:18PM EST
A youth pastor in upstate New York is part of a new movement towards Christian fantasy novels, replacing the often controversial secular books such as “Harry Potter” which has spotlighted the fantasy genre.
Christopher Hopper, pastor at New Life Christian Church, has released his second book in his White Lion Chronicles entitled The Lion Vrie just a month ago.
He hopes that it can convey the gospel through storytelling, much like other Christian novels such as The Chronicles of Narnia.
“I write fantasy because I believe in the power of parables,” explained Hopper in a statement. “Jesus rarely used logic when he was trying to break down an issue for his listeners, so that they could ‘really’ understand what he was trying to communicate.”
With the overwhelming release of the “Potter” books, Christians have been turmoiling over whether it is acceptable for youth to read the series, citing that it may lead to the occult.
Christian fantasy authors are offering an alternative, but they even have troubles with many Christian critics over the same problems.
To address the problem, Hopper, 26, and three other Christian fantasy authors embarked on a 17-city grassroots road tour from July 8-18. Through it, they hoped to garner some support for their mission and enlighten people onto the benefits of their genre.
The New York-native’s series has been growing in popularity since he first began.
Commenting on his first book, New York Times bestseller Graham P. Taylor described, “If the legend of King Arthur were ever to meet with Lord of the Rings, then the title would be Rise of the Dibor.”
The Lion Vrie continues on the saga and follows the life of the main character Luik who must grow up among such things as swords, lions, oracles, and epic battles. Luik, alongside a cast of many others, must fight for this fallen world and tells about a time where generations were interdependent with one another.
“The old men need the youth and vigor of the young, while the young men need the wisdom of their elders to rescue besieged Doinia,” said the author in a statement.
He hopes that the books can inspire many with its positive values and underlying messages.
