The latest issue of the Journal of Evangelical Theological Society arrived in the mail today. Near the back is my first published book review. Yes, I know. I’ve been a teacher for how long and I’m not announcing my first book. All these years and one measly little book review about a book that’s not really a book in a journal of a small fringe group of religious scholars. I’m a loser; thanks for the reminder.
Actually, it’s not the first book review I’ve written. No, about 10 years ago I wrote another book review. It was rejected. From an even lesser journal with a readership of 13 people or so. They said it was too negative. (Or maybe they used words like “cruel,” “brutal,” or “crushing;” I can’t remember.)
So I’m on my way. In another ten years, maybe I’ll have another book review accepted.
On the other hand, no student has ever asked me how many book reviews I’ve written. None has ever complained on a course evaluation that I don’t write enough journal articles. But when it comes time to writing a resume, filling out a professional form, or applying for further studies, there’s lots of blank space.
(If you want more than self-reflecting drivel, see the other post I wrote today.)
If it makes you feel any better, I did notice and read your review. I thought “wow, I knew Todd Bolen before he was famous.”
I can think of a couple of hundred IBEX students who could fill any blank space with character references, testimonies of changed lives, and general adoration (along with a few embarassing stories). I now you weren’t fishing for compliments but we appreciate your most excellent blog.
book reviews… who cares? you teach the History of Ancient Israel in Israel.
I saw your book review and was excited about it! The ETS Journal may not have many readers, but we’re thorough – we read EVERY word…even the Book Reviews.
Debi – my intent was to disparage myself, not JETS, which is a fine journal.