Chaput explores the idea that the things in life we believe are worth dying for are, instead, the things most worth living for and which should give us meaning and purpose ... While the chapters revolve around a central theme, each may be read independently. Written with passion and erudition, this title will appeal to Catholics and Christians searching for meaning during this time.
Reflections on what is most important to a life of faith ... Though the narrative is broad in scope and often scattershot, the author is introspective, genuine, and sometimes inspiring. Throughout, he exhorts readers to live the Christian life with sincerity, placing these significant elements of life first and making their importance clear to others ... Though prone to calling out what he sees as wrong with culture today, Chaput’s overall view is one of faithful optimism. Heartfelt, worthwhile thoughts from a seasoned church leader.
[An] erudite if rambling reflection on 'things worth dying for... [which are] things worth living for, the things that give life beauty and meaning.' Chief among these, for Chaput, is love and service of God, and he also praises family, friends, and both secular and religious communities ...The strongest section digs into the tension in Christian thought that holds death as both desirable and terrible. A weaker portion is his simplistic critique of contemporary culture, which Chaput sees as full of yearning for transcendence. The book also suffers from dubious assertions about the similarities between Jewish and Christian theology. While fans of Chaput’s homilies or previous works will enjoy this, it’s unlikely to win new ones.
