Christian fiction

[moredetails.livejournal.com]

Hi, community.

Someone just joined this community which made me feel that I should contribute to making it a bit more active.

So here's something....I often hear Christians (me included) complaining about Christian fiction. I know what my own complaints are - often it's cheesy, portraying Christianity in a shallow way, and it seems there is a required ministry message that is almost always poorly written. Still, I read it. I like knowing the character is probably going to approach things from a Christian perspective.

I guess what I'm wondering is what would be the "right" way to write Christian fiction for those of you who don't like it? I often wonder how I would incorporate faith if I wrote a book. Sure, I can write a character who isn't Christian at all, but as a Christian it would be tempting to write from a perspective that I know and live. But how do I do that in a way that doesn't just seem silly? How does one write that in a way that can be appreciated by Christians and nonChristians alike? Does it always have to be allegory?

I suppose I'm also wondering if you have read any Christian fiction that you think was well done. If so, why do you say that?

Comments

[moredetails.livejournal.com]

I agree - the cleanliness is what keeps me interested, too. I can feel pretty safe picking up a Christian fiction mystery or something, whereas there might be lots more disturbing scenes in nonChristian (though not always, of course).

Hm, I'm intrigued by the Gutteridge book. I'll have to add that to my list. :)