My Name Was Judas
Stead, C.K.Judas' name is synonymous with betrayal, but is that how he saw it himself? Forty years after the death of Jesus, Judas tells the story as he remembers it. Looking back on his childhood and youth, he recalls his friendship with Jesus; their schooling together; their families; the people who would go on to be disciples and followers; their journeys, and their dealings with the powers of Rome and the Temple, against the richly painted backdrop of ancient Palestine. NZ Interest.
Comments from Groups
All members who read the book thoroughly enjoyed this well written book. It was thought provoking, and resulted in a great discussion. Waiau 002 The book generated an interesting discussion on the nature of faith. We enjoyed the different portrayals of Jesus and Judas. Auckland 105 The book created some very interesting and emotional discussion - it received many 8/10 scores. Most felt it was very well written and a great read. Masterton 008 The group thought the writing was excellent, easy to read and challenging. It was contemporary and relevant. It certainly challenged our thinking about the Bible stories, and some went and re-read the Gospels. Wellington 057 We all enjoyed the book. It gave a rational meaning to the Gospel story which was quite believable. The poems at the end of each chapter were most enjoyable, and gave an insight into how Judas thought about his friend, Jesus. Blenheim 007 Mixed reactions - a challenge for those with strong Christian beliefs! Auckland 261 We all felt that Stead's interpretation of the Christ story, and his imaginative descriptions of the well-known miracles, were very impressive. The book neither offended those of us who regularly go to church, nor provided propaganda for those of us who are unbelievers. It may well be the catalyst for some of us to read more of Stead's novels. Overall mark 9/10 - the highest so far. Wanganui 011
Pages
244
244
Year
2006
2006
Reviews
26-04-2023
Great timing with this book to coincide with the Easter period. We had mixed reviews - most really enjoyed it, liking the way it explained the new testament, and connecting with Judas the narrator... It generated great discussion, making us question the blind faith we all grew up with. We all preferred C.K. Stead's version of the Jesus story.
26-04-2023
Generally very positive feedback - a few felt it started slowly but they enjoyed it as they got into it. Controversial, provocative and unexpected.
26-04-2023
Thought provoking. Great to have a different perspective. Much discussion.
26-04-2023
Only 6 members had read this book and no-one was enthusiastic about it. We agreed that it was well-written and that the context - Roman oppression, village life, the wandering band of disciples and their life - was portrayed in a way that was interesting and convincing. The character of Judas seemed unconvincing and Stead never deals with the question of Judas' alleged betrayal of Jesus. His portrayal of Jesus is interesting but fiction (of course) with some basis in some of the Gospels. The question in our minds was, "Why did Stead write this book"
06-09-2021
Fascinating story from a different perspective.
22-04-2021
For most members of our group, this book was challenging in terms of it disputing accepted wisdom on the life of Judas Ascariot and his role in the life and death of Jesus Christ. But they rose to this challenge and we had a terrific conversation about this book. One person wasn't in the right mental space to read the book but those of us who did admired the writing (page turner, ripping yarn etc) and the degree to which the author had researched life and the times in which the book was set.
04-05-2020
Thought provoking and beautifully written. Sad, poignant and atmospheric. We all enjoyed the writing, particularly the poetry. Very appropriate reading for Easter time. Zoom meeting went well - lots of laughing in addition to discussing the book.