I am not but I know I AM - Louie Giglio

This intriguing title, has the subtitle 'My Small Story and God's Big Story'. Written by a man who is passionate about our insignificance compared to God's indescribable universe, this small book challenges our constant striving to make ourselves the centre of everything. In some ways it is a teaching manual for a meaningful lifestyle, being small, but presented in an unusual format.

Each chapter is set in a particular location, with a story involving that location; I particularly enjoyed the chapter set on the Zambezi River. But what sets it apart from other books is Giglio's use of font size and highlight, to contrast the largeness of God and the smallness of the reader. In places it's difficult to see the words referring to 'me', and this is a deliberate choice to demonstrate his message throughout the text. It's a clever ploy, which works, once you have got used to it.

Another clever aspect is the constant use of God's name, 'I AM' relating it to the verb, 'to be'. He has invented what he calls, the one-word Bible Study Method, where he encourages the reader to take a short passage of Scripture, and meditate on it, one word at a time. He provides several examples, which are fascinating, and encouraged me to try it for myself. It was an exciting exercise which I will continue.

The repeated use of the prefix 'be', as in become, belong, beloved, etc is another clever literary tool, which readers whose first language is not English may find difficult to follow. Nevertheless, he explains his reasoning very clearly with practical examples. His honesty throughout, applying the principles to himself first and then encouraging the reader to join him on his quest, is refreshing and endearing.

This is a book that is very diffcult to describe - you just have to read it and discover it hidden secrets for yourself.

Enjoy!