Review
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Title: Draw Near Unto Me: Images and Thoughts to Lift and Inspire
Authors: Various
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Non- Fiction/Inspirational
Year Published: 2014
Number of Pages: 78
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN10: 9778-1-62108-703-8
ISBN13: N/A
Price: $14.99
Reviewed by Trudy Thompson for the Association For Mormon Letters
This new book, beautifully illustrated with paintings of well known artist Greg Olsen, complete with inspirational quotes and scriptures personally chosen by him, is a perfect addition to any home library. It is non-denominational in both word and art, and is designed to be uplifting, encouraging, and comforting.
The thoughts and quotes and scriptures are one line passages, and are accompanied by a wide range of Greg Olsen’s paintings. Many of the paintings are well known works of Christ, such as Forgiven, Baptism, Awesome Wonder, Let Him In, No Greater Love, and many others. The art also includes landscape and impressionistic works, like Harbor Lighthouse, Red Barn, Sacred Grove, and many additional paintings. Touching portraits of children are included, many with Christ, and some of children just being themselves; these include: I’m Trying To Be Like Jesus, Mother’s Love, Pleasure of Your Company, Melodies Remembered, Take My Hand, The Master’s Touch, Daddy’s Little Girl, Fall Leaves, and again, many other heart-warming paintings in this category. Mr. Olsen has even included his newer masterpieces in this volume, including Worlds Without End, In the World Not Of the World, and Joy of the Lord.
The short but meaningful verses include thoughts like, “Learn to see with your heart the things your eyes cannot.” “Let go of things you can’t control so you can focus on the things you can.” “Avoid looking down on others; rather, strive to be someone they can look up to.” “Sow the things you wish to reap. Start with kindness.” And one by Abraham Lincoln, “The best way to destroy an enemy is to make them your friend.”
I have a few friends who do not like to read and many who love to read. All of them would enjoy receiving this book as a gift. It is the perfect volume to leave on a nightstand, a coffee table or anywhere it would be handy. I plan to do just that, and when the day is especially stressful and trying, I will take a few minutes, sit down, pick this book up, and simply read a few pages and enjoy the exquisite talent of Greg Olsen.
Sometimes, we just need a short and relaxing break to put things back in perspective. Properly enjoyed, I believe this book would help to do just that.