Leading Christian Resource for Avid Readers, Support New Schools with Every Purchase.

The Story of Ruth

Paperback |English |0802827357 | 9780802827357

The Story of Ruth

Paperback |English |0802827357 | 9780802827357
Overview
In this beautiful book best-selling author Joan Chittister and celebrated artist John August Swanson together reclaim the ancient story of Ruth as a model for contemporary women seeking a fully spiritual life.

In concert with Swanson's rich and evocative art, Chittister's graceful prose explores, through this powerful biblical story, a series of twelve defining moments in every woman's life -- moments of loss, change, transformation, aging, independence, respect, recognition, insight, empowerment, selfdefinition, invisibility, and fulfillment.

A lovely blend of art and text, The Story of Ruth offers inspiration for women seeking wholeness and presents compelling devotional images for eyes and mind alike.
ISBN: 0802827357
ISBN13: 9780802827357
Author: Joan Chittister
Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
Format: Paperback
PublicationDate: 2007-03-05
Language: English
PageCount: 104
Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.06 x 9.25 inches
Weight: 11.2 ounces
In this beautiful book best-selling author Joan Chittister and celebrated artist John August Swanson together reclaim the ancient story of Ruth as a model for contemporary women seeking a fully spiritual life.

In concert with Swanson's rich and evocative art, Chittister's graceful prose explores, through this powerful biblical story, a series of twelve defining moments in every woman's life -- moments of loss, change, transformation, aging, independence, respect, recognition, insight, empowerment, selfdefinition, invisibility, and fulfillment.

A lovely blend of art and text, The Story of Ruth offers inspiration for women seeking wholeness and presents compelling devotional images for eyes and mind alike.
Editorial Reviews


Rabbi Lawrence Kushner

"Chittister and Swanson's
Story of Ruth is an easy, wise, and instructive lens through which to view one of the gems of the Hebrew Bible. This creative and engaging book is in the highest Jewish tradition of reading 'between the lines' of scripture. . . Should be required reading for Christians and Jews, women and ? above all ? men."
Rosemary Luling Haughton

"Joan Chittister's reflections about loss and change, about isolation and empowerment, are both realistic and liberating. . . And John August Swanson's artworks are contemplative experiences in themselves ? quiet, yet glowing and vivid."
Michael Downey

"These pages shimmer. Lush, warm colors and patterns together with piercing, prophetic words summon the heart to behold an enduring image of fidelity. Look and listen ? long and lovingly ? to the story of Ruth and Naomi. And receive, once again, the gift of hope still on offer."
Spirit & Life

"In twelve unusual chapters, Ruth is portrayed as the prototype of a 21st century 'Everywoman, ' free, independent, and equal with all humankind. Complementing the text, twelve lovely paintings by John August Swanson illustrate the way Ruth wins her freedom and feminine independence. A beautiful book in every way, 'The Story of Ruth' is for treasuring and gift-giving."
Parade Magazine

"Writing a book that blends spirituality, inspiration and feminism is no easy feat, but Joan D. Chittister has accomplished it with rare sensitivity in
The Story of Ruth: Twelve Moments in Every Woman's Life. Taking the biblical narrative of the young Moabite widow who followed her mother-in-law to a new land she relates the story to modern women's quest for independence, respect, empowerment and self-fulfillment. You can agree or not with the lessons she finds, but her analysis is thoughtful and free from treacly interpretations. The book is enhanced immeasurably by John August Swanson's biblical-style illustrations."
The Newark Star-Ledger

"Attractively illustrated by John August Swanson, 'Ruth' is 'part self-help book, part poetry, ' with Chittister presenting a God interested and intent on transforming women. . . Though it's the lives of two Old Testament women we're examining, Chittister leaves no doubt about the relevance and practical application to modern women. Don't be surprised to find yourself lingering in those moments that apply to the season of your life. . . Chittister's style is like that of friends whose advice is therapy. No, they haven't got any degrees in counseling, but that's where our feet carry us when we need wise counsel."
Sisters Today

"This book is a treat on all fronts. As usual, Chittister is challenging and thought provoking as she uses Ruth to illustrate moments in a woman's life. But the illustrator, John August Swanson has it right in his Notes when he says, 'This is not only a woman's book. . . ' Swanson's colorful and detailed illustrations alone are worth the price of the book, but with the text the book becomes richer still."
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

"The ancient biblical tale of a woman who left everything she knew for love of --of all things--a mother-in-law is brought to contemporary relevance by author Joan D. Chittister, a Benedictine nun, and artist John August Swanson. The prose is arresting and the illustrations simple, brilliantly colored and striking enough for second and even third looks. . . This is an old favorite made more so with the retelling."
The Bible Today

"The biblical story of Ruth is the basis of these twelve reflections on issues facing every woman. . . The contents of each chapter are a mix of personal reflection on life experience and social concern. Swanson's colorful art enhances every page, and a full page drawing depicting a scene from the biblical story introduces each chapter. The talents of the author and the artist come together to produce a book of note. This will make a fine gift."
Lutheran Woman Today

"Occasionally one finds a book so powerful and beautiful that it needs to be purchased and shared with many people!
The Story of Ruth is such a book."
Benedictines Magazine

"This beautiful book combines the best of many arts--the script of the ancient writer, the insights of the modern feminist-theologian, the portrayal in color, line and form of the illustrator and the glow of vibrant inks on every page. . . This is a book to be savored and appreciated for its form and content. Never at a loss to create a stir in her readers' minds and hearts, Chittister has outdone herself in
The Story of Ruth."
Society for Old Testament Study Booklist

"This book combines Catholic spirituality and modern art to produce a charming and insightful account of twelve key moments in the lives of two biblical women, Ruth and Naomi, who are seen to function as 'metaphors' for all women."
Barbara Brown Taylor

"With characteristic wit and spitfire, Joan Chittister tells the story of Ruth for anyone challenged by loss, change, aging, or invisibility. Basing her reflections on the lives of two marginal biblical women, she reveals their central roles as mothers of faith and dares all their descendants ? both daughters and sons ? to follow their lead."
Publishers Weekly

"The best book on Ruth thus far may be Joan Chittister's creative, gorgeously illustrated exploration of the famous Moabitess as archetype for all women.
The Story of Ruth: Twelve Moments in Every Woman's Life shows how Ruth's journey through loss, change, transformation, aging, independence, respect, recognition, insight, empowerment, self-definition, invisibility and fulfillment mirrors similar stages in many women's lives. . . The text's perceptive, piercing truths are complemented by stunning full-color artwork by John August Swanson."
The Living Church

"A beautifully illustrated and printed book on the Book of Ruth with commentary by well-known spiritual writer Joan Chittister on how Ruth's story speaks to women of today in their own quest for spiritual wholeness."


John August Swanson (1938-2021) was a world-renowned painter noted for his finely detailed, brilliantly colored biblical pieces. His unique style was influenced by the imagery of Islamic and medieval miniatures, Russian iconography, the color of Latin American folk art, and the tradition of Mexican muralists. Mr. Swanson's art is represented in the permanent collections of many museums, including three museums of the Smithsonian Institutions: the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of American Art and the National Air and Space Museum. In 2005, he was one of thirty-three inaugural recipients-including Pope John Paul II, Desmond Tutu, and Jimmy Carter-of the Mother Teresa Award for achievement in beautifying the world.


Books - New and Used

The following guidelines apply to books:

  • New: A brand-new copy with cover and original protective wrapping intact. Books with markings of any kind on the cover or pages, books marked as "Bargain" or "Remainder," or with any other labels attached, may not be listed as New condition.
  • Used - Good: All pages and cover are intact (including the dust cover, if applicable). Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May include "From the library of" labels. Shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Item may be missing bundled media.
  • Used - Acceptable: All pages and the cover are intact, but shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Pages may include limited notes, highlighting, or minor water damage but the text is readable. Item may but the dust cover may be missing. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting, but the text cannot be obscured or unreadable.

Note: Some electronic material access codes are valid only for one user. For this reason, used books, including books listed in the Used – Like New condition, may not come with functional electronic material access codes.

Shipping Fees

  • Stevens Books offers FREE SHIPPING everywhere in the United States for ALL non-book orders, and $3.99 for each book.
  • Packages are shipped from Monday to Friday.
  • No additional fees and charges.

Delivery Times

The usual time for processing an order is 24 hours (1 business day), but may vary depending on the availability of products ordered. This period excludes delivery times, which depend on your geographic location.

Estimated delivery times:

  • Standard Shipping: 5-8 business days
  • Expedited Shipping: 3-5 business days

Shipping method varies depending on what is being shipped.  

Tracking
All orders are shipped with a tracking number. Once your order has left our warehouse, a confirmation e-mail with a tracking number will be sent to you. You will be able to track your package at all times. 

Damaged Parcel
If your package has been delivered in a PO Box, please note that we are not responsible for any damage that may result (consequences of extreme temperatures, theft, etc.). 

If you have any questions regarding shipping or want to know about the status of an order, please contact us or email to support@stevensbooks.com.

You may return most items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.

Several types of goods are exempt from being returned. Perishable goods such as food, flowers, newspapers or magazines cannot be returned. We also do not accept products that are intimate or sanitary goods, hazardous materials, or flammable liquids or gases.

Additional non-returnable items:

  • Gift cards
  • Downloadable software products
  • Some health and personal care items

To complete your return, we require a tracking number, which shows the items which you already returned to us.
There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable)

  • Book with obvious signs of use
  • CD, DVD, VHS tape, software, video game, cassette tape, or vinyl record that has been opened
  • Any item not in its original condition, is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
  • Any item that is returned more than 30 days after delivery

Items returned to us as a result of our error will receive a full refund,some returns may be subject to a restocking fee of 7% of the total item price, please contact a customer care team member to see if your return is subject. Returns that arrived on time and were as described are subject to a restocking fee.

Items returned to us that were not the result of our error, including items returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address, will be refunded the original item price less our standard restocking fees.

If the item is returned to us for any of the following reasons, a 15% restocking fee will be applied to your refund total and you will be asked to pay for return shipping:

  • Item(s) no longer needed or wanted.
  • Item(s) returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address.
  • Item(s) returned to us that were not a result of our error.

You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).

If you need to return an item, please Contact Us with your order number and details about the product you would like to return. We will respond quickly with instructions for how to return items from your order.


Shipping Cost


We'll pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.). In other cases, you will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.

Depending on where you live, the time it may take for your exchanged product to reach you, may vary.

If you are shipping an item over $75, you should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item.

$13.12

    Condition

Arrives: -
In Stock

Overview
In this beautiful book best-selling author Joan Chittister and celebrated artist John August Swanson together reclaim the ancient story of Ruth as a model for contemporary women seeking a fully spiritual life.

In concert with Swanson's rich and evocative art, Chittister's graceful prose explores, through this powerful biblical story, a series of twelve defining moments in every woman's life -- moments of loss, change, transformation, aging, independence, respect, recognition, insight, empowerment, selfdefinition, invisibility, and fulfillment.

A lovely blend of art and text, The Story of Ruth offers inspiration for women seeking wholeness and presents compelling devotional images for eyes and mind alike.
ISBN: 0802827357
ISBN13: 9780802827357
Author: Joan Chittister
Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
Format: Paperback
PublicationDate: 2007-03-05
Language: English
PageCount: 104
Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.06 x 9.25 inches
Weight: 11.2 ounces
In this beautiful book best-selling author Joan Chittister and celebrated artist John August Swanson together reclaim the ancient story of Ruth as a model for contemporary women seeking a fully spiritual life.

In concert with Swanson's rich and evocative art, Chittister's graceful prose explores, through this powerful biblical story, a series of twelve defining moments in every woman's life -- moments of loss, change, transformation, aging, independence, respect, recognition, insight, empowerment, selfdefinition, invisibility, and fulfillment.

A lovely blend of art and text, The Story of Ruth offers inspiration for women seeking wholeness and presents compelling devotional images for eyes and mind alike.
Editorial Reviews


Rabbi Lawrence Kushner

"Chittister and Swanson's
Story of Ruth is an easy, wise, and instructive lens through which to view one of the gems of the Hebrew Bible. This creative and engaging book is in the highest Jewish tradition of reading 'between the lines' of scripture. . . Should be required reading for Christians and Jews, women and ? above all ? men."
Rosemary Luling Haughton

"Joan Chittister's reflections about loss and change, about isolation and empowerment, are both realistic and liberating. . . And John August Swanson's artworks are contemplative experiences in themselves ? quiet, yet glowing and vivid."
Michael Downey

"These pages shimmer. Lush, warm colors and patterns together with piercing, prophetic words summon the heart to behold an enduring image of fidelity. Look and listen ? long and lovingly ? to the story of Ruth and Naomi. And receive, once again, the gift of hope still on offer."
Spirit & Life

"In twelve unusual chapters, Ruth is portrayed as the prototype of a 21st century 'Everywoman, ' free, independent, and equal with all humankind. Complementing the text, twelve lovely paintings by John August Swanson illustrate the way Ruth wins her freedom and feminine independence. A beautiful book in every way, 'The Story of Ruth' is for treasuring and gift-giving."
Parade Magazine

"Writing a book that blends spirituality, inspiration and feminism is no easy feat, but Joan D. Chittister has accomplished it with rare sensitivity in
The Story of Ruth: Twelve Moments in Every Woman's Life. Taking the biblical narrative of the young Moabite widow who followed her mother-in-law to a new land she relates the story to modern women's quest for independence, respect, empowerment and self-fulfillment. You can agree or not with the lessons she finds, but her analysis is thoughtful and free from treacly interpretations. The book is enhanced immeasurably by John August Swanson's biblical-style illustrations."
The Newark Star-Ledger

"Attractively illustrated by John August Swanson, 'Ruth' is 'part self-help book, part poetry, ' with Chittister presenting a God interested and intent on transforming women. . . Though it's the lives of two Old Testament women we're examining, Chittister leaves no doubt about the relevance and practical application to modern women. Don't be surprised to find yourself lingering in those moments that apply to the season of your life. . . Chittister's style is like that of friends whose advice is therapy. No, they haven't got any degrees in counseling, but that's where our feet carry us when we need wise counsel."
Sisters Today

"This book is a treat on all fronts. As usual, Chittister is challenging and thought provoking as she uses Ruth to illustrate moments in a woman's life. But the illustrator, John August Swanson has it right in his Notes when he says, 'This is not only a woman's book. . . ' Swanson's colorful and detailed illustrations alone are worth the price of the book, but with the text the book becomes richer still."
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

"The ancient biblical tale of a woman who left everything she knew for love of --of all things--a mother-in-law is brought to contemporary relevance by author Joan D. Chittister, a Benedictine nun, and artist John August Swanson. The prose is arresting and the illustrations simple, brilliantly colored and striking enough for second and even third looks. . . This is an old favorite made more so with the retelling."
The Bible Today

"The biblical story of Ruth is the basis of these twelve reflections on issues facing every woman. . . The contents of each chapter are a mix of personal reflection on life experience and social concern. Swanson's colorful art enhances every page, and a full page drawing depicting a scene from the biblical story introduces each chapter. The talents of the author and the artist come together to produce a book of note. This will make a fine gift."
Lutheran Woman Today

"Occasionally one finds a book so powerful and beautiful that it needs to be purchased and shared with many people!
The Story of Ruth is such a book."
Benedictines Magazine

"This beautiful book combines the best of many arts--the script of the ancient writer, the insights of the modern feminist-theologian, the portrayal in color, line and form of the illustrator and the glow of vibrant inks on every page. . . This is a book to be savored and appreciated for its form and content. Never at a loss to create a stir in her readers' minds and hearts, Chittister has outdone herself in
The Story of Ruth."
Society for Old Testament Study Booklist

"This book combines Catholic spirituality and modern art to produce a charming and insightful account of twelve key moments in the lives of two biblical women, Ruth and Naomi, who are seen to function as 'metaphors' for all women."
Barbara Brown Taylor

"With characteristic wit and spitfire, Joan Chittister tells the story of Ruth for anyone challenged by loss, change, aging, or invisibility. Basing her reflections on the lives of two marginal biblical women, she reveals their central roles as mothers of faith and dares all their descendants ? both daughters and sons ? to follow their lead."
Publishers Weekly

"The best book on Ruth thus far may be Joan Chittister's creative, gorgeously illustrated exploration of the famous Moabitess as archetype for all women.
The Story of Ruth: Twelve Moments in Every Woman's Life shows how Ruth's journey through loss, change, transformation, aging, independence, respect, recognition, insight, empowerment, self-definition, invisibility and fulfillment mirrors similar stages in many women's lives. . . The text's perceptive, piercing truths are complemented by stunning full-color artwork by John August Swanson."
The Living Church

"A beautifully illustrated and printed book on the Book of Ruth with commentary by well-known spiritual writer Joan Chittister on how Ruth's story speaks to women of today in their own quest for spiritual wholeness."


John August Swanson (1938-2021) was a world-renowned painter noted for his finely detailed, brilliantly colored biblical pieces. His unique style was influenced by the imagery of Islamic and medieval miniatures, Russian iconography, the color of Latin American folk art, and the tradition of Mexican muralists. Mr. Swanson's art is represented in the permanent collections of many museums, including three museums of the Smithsonian Institutions: the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of American Art and the National Air and Space Museum. In 2005, he was one of thirty-three inaugural recipients-including Pope John Paul II, Desmond Tutu, and Jimmy Carter-of the Mother Teresa Award for achievement in beautifying the world.


Books - New and Used

The following guidelines apply to books:

  • New: A brand-new copy with cover and original protective wrapping intact. Books with markings of any kind on the cover or pages, books marked as "Bargain" or "Remainder," or with any other labels attached, may not be listed as New condition.
  • Used - Good: All pages and cover are intact (including the dust cover, if applicable). Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May include "From the library of" labels. Shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Item may be missing bundled media.
  • Used - Acceptable: All pages and the cover are intact, but shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Pages may include limited notes, highlighting, or minor water damage but the text is readable. Item may but the dust cover may be missing. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting, but the text cannot be obscured or unreadable.

Note: Some electronic material access codes are valid only for one user. For this reason, used books, including books listed in the Used – Like New condition, may not come with functional electronic material access codes.

Shipping Fees

  • Stevens Books offers FREE SHIPPING everywhere in the United States for ALL non-book orders, and $3.99 for each book.
  • Packages are shipped from Monday to Friday.
  • No additional fees and charges.

Delivery Times

The usual time for processing an order is 24 hours (1 business day), but may vary depending on the availability of products ordered. This period excludes delivery times, which depend on your geographic location.

Estimated delivery times:

  • Standard Shipping: 5-8 business days
  • Expedited Shipping: 3-5 business days

Shipping method varies depending on what is being shipped.  

Tracking
All orders are shipped with a tracking number. Once your order has left our warehouse, a confirmation e-mail with a tracking number will be sent to you. You will be able to track your package at all times. 

Damaged Parcel
If your package has been delivered in a PO Box, please note that we are not responsible for any damage that may result (consequences of extreme temperatures, theft, etc.). 

If you have any questions regarding shipping or want to know about the status of an order, please contact us or email to support@stevensbooks.com.

You may return most items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.

Several types of goods are exempt from being returned. Perishable goods such as food, flowers, newspapers or magazines cannot be returned. We also do not accept products that are intimate or sanitary goods, hazardous materials, or flammable liquids or gases.

Additional non-returnable items:

  • Gift cards
  • Downloadable software products
  • Some health and personal care items

To complete your return, we require a tracking number, which shows the items which you already returned to us.
There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable)

  • Book with obvious signs of use
  • CD, DVD, VHS tape, software, video game, cassette tape, or vinyl record that has been opened
  • Any item not in its original condition, is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
  • Any item that is returned more than 30 days after delivery

Items returned to us as a result of our error will receive a full refund,some returns may be subject to a restocking fee of 7% of the total item price, please contact a customer care team member to see if your return is subject. Returns that arrived on time and were as described are subject to a restocking fee.

Items returned to us that were not the result of our error, including items returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address, will be refunded the original item price less our standard restocking fees.

If the item is returned to us for any of the following reasons, a 15% restocking fee will be applied to your refund total and you will be asked to pay for return shipping:

  • Item(s) no longer needed or wanted.
  • Item(s) returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address.
  • Item(s) returned to us that were not a result of our error.

You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).

If you need to return an item, please Contact Us with your order number and details about the product you would like to return. We will respond quickly with instructions for how to return items from your order.


Shipping Cost


We'll pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.). In other cases, you will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.

Depending on where you live, the time it may take for your exchanged product to reach you, may vary.

If you are shipping an item over $75, you should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item.

X

Oops!

Sorry, it looks like some products are not available in selected quantity.

OK

Sign up to the Stevens Books Newsletter

For the latest books, recommendations, author interviews and more

By signing up, I confirm that I'm over 16. To find out what personal data we collect and how we use it, please visit. our Privacy Policy.