Elisabeth Elliot's "No Graven Image" is a novel that delves into the complexities of missionary work and the internal struggles of a young missionary. Here's a summary of the book's key elements:

  • Missionary Experience:
    • The story follows Margaret Sparhawk, a young American missionary, as she embarks on her ministry in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador.
    • It portrays the challenges of adapting to a foreign culture, building relationships with indigenous people, and the difficulties of cross cultural communication.
  • Internal Struggles:
    • The book explores Margaret's inner conflicts, including her doubts, fears, and the questioning of her own motivations.
    • It examines the theme of "graven images," or the tendency to create idealized or distorted views of God and ministry.
  • Realism and Authenticity:
    • Elliot draws on her own experiences as a missionary in Ecuador, lending a sense of realism and authenticity to the story.
    • The book does not romanticize missionary work, and instead shows the very real struggles that are faced.
  • Themes of Faith and Doubt:
    • "No Graven Image" grapples with the complexities of faith, exploring the tension between belief and doubt.
    • It looks at how tragedy can shake a persons faith, and how that person can then rebuild that faith.
  • Cultural Interaction:
    • The book gives the reader a look into the interactions between the missionary, and the indigenous people.

In essence, "No Graven Image" is a nuanced and thought-provoking novel that explores the challenges and complexities of missionary work, and the inner struggles of faith

Format: Hardcover

Pages:   244

Edition: 1st Edition