The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World

by Rick Barry

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When Rankin Johnson boards a flight to Israel, he expects an adventure in archeology. But the airplane comes under attack and explodes in midair. Rankin shouts, "God, I'm Yours!" Instantly, he's in some other place. An angel informs Rankin the Lord is pleased to accept his offer. He dubs Rankin "the next Fithian"-a messenger from God, not to Earth, but to planet Zemna in the alternate dimention. What happened to the previous Fithian? He was killed, the angel says before vanishing. On Zemna, show more Rankin finds a perplexing, violent world. Futuristic technology mingles with primitive ways. Also, a bizarre symbol-the intersection of All Things--has appeared on his left palm. It's a tool to aid his mission, but how? Rankin is supposed to share God's message with this planet. Instead, he becomes a slave. What he really wants is a trip back to Earth. ith the aid of Prahv and Theena, a brother and sister who become his best friends, Rankin escapes. He hopes to fulfill his mission and return home as fast as possible. But now there's a price on Rankin's head. More than one Zemnan would rather kill him for the reward than hear what he has to say. show less

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5 reviews
5 stars, Refreshing sci-fi adventure

THE NEXT FITHIAN: AN ORDINARY TEEN ON A STRANGE, NEW WORLD (NEXT FITHIAN #1)
By Rick Barry
Published by: Fithian Publications

As a constant reader, I've found that I adore The Next Fithian because it combines some of the aspects that I look forwards to in a novel and packages the story up in a pretty green book. Science Fiction, Fantasy, a Christian author, friendships, a superhero that anyone can relate to, which all combine to make an attractive novel, not only the cover but inside, as well.

It is refreshing not to have the vulgarities that are so often in adventure books, these days. Highly recommend. Though the book is set in a futuristic, fantasy world, it can help to solidify the morals and beliefs show more of the people in your life. As a middle-aged grandmother, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I'd like to purchase the paper-back copy for my grandchildren. I know they'd love the adventure, as well.

I received a complimentary copy of #TheNextFithian @TheNextFithian from @RickBarry @FithianPublications @writerRickBarry #ChristianSciFi #inspyfiction #mustreadseries I was under no obligation to post a review.
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This review was written for LibraryThing Member Giveaways.
What I think you should know:
The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange New World by Ricky Berry is YA Christian Science Fiction.

What you might need to know:
Rankin lost his parents who were missionaries prior to the start of this book. He was living with his Grandmother who had taken over raising him.

What I think about this book:
As a YA reader: Berry has created an amazing story! How do you explain Christ and his sacrifice to a whole new world? What would the world have been like if the Fall didn’t occur with Adam and Eve? I love the imaginative turns that Berry took with Zemna, how he chose to depict the society that existed before their fall and how vastly different it is from Earth. It was interesting to see Rankin navigate show more the differences between the two worlds. I enjoyed every page! This book will leave me thinking for a long time and waiting for the next in the series. I can’t wait to see where the author takes Rankin next.

As the Mom of a YA: I think that his book is going to be perfect for some great discussions with my son about his faith and how he shares his faith and memorizes The Word. Although the author included a small bit of Romance it didn’t overpower the story or make it inappropriate for a YA reader. I highly recommend this book to any YA reader , it would be great to be used with a Homeschool group or a book club!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
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The creativity of this story is sure to grab the attention of science fiction fans. With a Christian theme it is perfect for young adults and adults. I loved our main character because he is chosen to spread the Word in a world unlike anything seen before.

The minute the plane is in trouble, Rankin is thrust into a place where he is challenged and sent on a mission that astounds him. Leaving his family behind he begins his journey. Now I’m not sure I would be as calm as he seemed when he finds out that he has been chosen by the Creator to share a message. I enjoyed reading about Zemma and it’s vast difference from Earth. Danger awaits him as word gets out that he has arrived.

What I liked most about the story was the reminder that show more we all have been called to be disciples and share His Word with others. Rankin is obedient and says, “God, I’m yours.” Would we be brave enough to do the same? Could we go to a foreign place and speak about God? I like how the author uses a seventeen year old to explore what it would be like to follow His lead and overcome obstacles that could harm him. His faith is strong and his urgency to succeed is important to him. I enjoyed reading how Rankin became more sure of himself as he fights for the truth to be told.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
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Don't Count Out Our Youth!

The Next Fithian was a really great read! Geared towards young adults yet enjoyable for adults as well.

Teenager Rankin ends up in another dimension and is tasked with the job to spread the gospel to a world that does not believe. Sound familiar?

I enjoyed the author's creativity in the presentation of the gospel and the reminder that everyone can share their faith. Ageism which can sometimes be a stumbling block in life and in the church is shredded as the light shone on the fact that we tend to disregard our youth as viable conduits of the gospel.

I admired his skillful incorporation of biblical stories as the adventure heated up. This was not a book I could rush through, I slowed down and enjoyed every show more delicious bite.

Key Takeaway:

We all have a part to play in sharing the gospel message; our age, doubts, or circumstances are no excuse to avoid doing so.

Job well done Mr. Barry!

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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On a plane trip to Israel,teenager Rankin Johnson expects to find archaeology. However, when his plane explodes, he finds himself in another dimension as a messenger of God.

The author masterfully illustrates how even those who are young may spread the message of God and His mercy and goodness. Struggling to survive, Rankin works to spread the gospel message.

This book provides a Christian Science fiction story for those who are young or young at heart. So check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

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Fiction and Literature, Teen, Young Adult

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Popularity
3,041,958
Reviews
5
Rating
(4.80)
Languages
English
Media
Paper, Ebook
ISBNs
2