The Greatest Story Ever Told [Abridged, Audiobook] [Audio Cassette]

Fulton Oursler (Author), Billy Graham (Introduction), Edward Herrmann (Contributor)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1997

Available for the first time on audiocassette, Fulton Oursler's 1949 novel about the life of Jesus Christ was written with powerful simplicity and set against a rich historical background. Using a fictionalized narrative, Oursler takes events from the Gospels of the New Testament and adds imaginative dialogues and personalities to recreate the first century, while maintaining Biblical integrity. As you experience Christ's nativity, the Holy Family's flight into Egypt, Christ's public ministry, passion, death, and resurrection, you will almost feel as if you were there.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

In this highly regarded 1949 account about the life of Jesus, Oursler imbued the New Testament gospels with life, embellishing them with descriptive detail, dialog, and personality. The compelling fictionalized narrative, which remains faithful to the scriptures throughout, can be heard now on cassette via the talents of Tony Award- winning actor Edward Herrmann. Listeners will experience a sense of "being there," as author and narrator capture the essence of the compassionate yet forceful Son of God and his mission amidst the political, religious, and social turmoil of the early first century. This program's messages are timeless and ever relevant and will have wide appeal. Highly recommended for public libraries.?Barbara J. Vaughan, State Univ. Coll. at Buffalo Lib., N.Y.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

Since 1949 Fulton Oursler's fictional account of the life of Jesus has been a perennial favorite. The author's intent was to remain faithful to the Christ portrayed in the Gospels; thus, this work will probably appeal to those of a more evangelical bent. Edward Herrmann gives a respectable reading. His stately voice has a congenial, soft quality. He gives a controlled dramatic interpretation to the narrative and characters, which aptly portrays mood or personality without being overbearing [brought to you by HighBridge Audio]. -- Audiofile, Mar./Apr. 1998

Winner of the Listen Up Award - Best Religion/Spirituality Audio of 1997 [brought to you by HighBridge Audio]. -- Publishers Weekly, January 5, 1998

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Product Details

• Audio Cassette
• Publisher: Highbridge Audio (March 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1565111788
• ISBN-13: 978-1565111783
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 4.4 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.1 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,938,870 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

29 of 30 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A light shining in darkness..., July 17, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Greatest Story Ever Told (Great Reads) (Hardcover)

I am usually a critic of "Life of Christ" stories. It's easy for me to mount my soap box and say, "If one wants to learn of the life of Jesus, read the gospels." However, this book was different. Oursler remains faithful to the biblical accounts of the life of Jesus, weaving the material from the four evangelists together to produce a truly great narrative. For those thirsty for some reading on the life of the Lord, I would certainly still point them first (and always) to the Scripture; however, I must admit that, regarding Oursler's narrative, there is some value to be gained from the stirring of the heart this story produces. Highly recommended for all -- both young and old.

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great for teens who know nothing about Jeus Christ., June 3, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Greatest Story Ever Told (Great Reads) (Hardcover)

Read this book out loud to your family and use it for discussions about the life of Jesus Christ. I have a 13 year old son who knew very little about Jesus, and now has a simple but deep grasp of the story. It has lead to talk about Jesus' miracles, His inspirational teaching of morality, and His resurrection. This book is accurate in every particular to the gospel of Mark. Oursler does a good job of describing the facts of the gospel in novel form so that the people come alive again. The language is challenging and specific, though not complicated. Oursler knows the definitive meanings of words and uses them well, but puts them in understandable context. One small remark that might be construed as a complaint: the physical descriptions of Jesus are true to the classical western paintings of a brown haired man with light eyes. Small quibble, not important. Oursler captures the spirit of the man and the glory of God in Him. If you need to "read" the Bible story before beginning your study of the Word, this book will give you a clear picture of the life and teachings of the Master. Enjoy!

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This is one of the best books I've ever read., October 20, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Greatest Story Ever Told (Great Reads) (Hardcover)

This book is great. It really brings the story to life. It fills in details and emotions that many people wonder about when reading the Bible. It's also very inspirational, and an awesome story. It's one of those books that everyone should read and reread.