The Mark of a Giant: 7 People Who Changed the World
Author: Ted Stewart
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published Date: May 2013
Hardcover: 262 pages
Genre: Historical Nonfiction
ISBN# 9781609071813
Reviewed by: Shanda
FTC FYI: free temporary digital review copy that will be removed from my device after a short time
Book Summary
Throughout the course of history, civilization has been blessed by strong-minded men and women who have impacted our world in extraordinary ways. Their imprint upon humanity is beyond dispute. And many would contend that they were no less than the result of Divine Providence—a gift of God to the human race. Who are these individuals? What is it about these few that make them different? Were they merely in the right place at the right time? Or were they somehow chosen? The Mark of a Giant examines the lives and contributions of seven men and women who changed the world: Abraham of Ur, Pericles, the Apostle Paul, Sir Isaac Newton, Marie Curie, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mother Teresa.
Review
“This is a book about history. More specifically, it is a book about how strong-minded men and women have changed the course of history.” -Introduction, 1st paragraph
I’ve always enjoyed reading about history, but often it is weighed down with excessive facts and details. Not so with The Mark of a Giant. It did not read like a history textbook, but instead felt more like sitting down with a knowledgable acquaintance and listening to their engaging retelling of history.
The author offers an efficient yet educational overview of the events surrounding each individual, their personal circumstances and the state of the world at the time they lived. His love of historical setting is apparent and the resulting “big picture” view is something I truly appreciate.
It is inspiring and humbling to read about the circumstances surrounding these peoples’ lives and their accomplishments. I had heard of or read about everyone except Pericles. My curiosity has been piqued and I’m motivated to learn more about them.
It amazes me how, despite the diversity of lifestyle, location, and personal background, each standard, belief system, discovery and accomplishment served another that was to come. They are each connected in some way and had long term effects on the entire world throughout the passage of time. This proves again the importance of studying history and those who came before us.
While the author acknowledges that these seven people were human, made mistakes, and struggled with weaknesses, he states that this only proves that imperfect people can do great things. In conclusion, he addresses the specific traits that set these individuals apart and paved the way for them to do the work they set out to do.
The Mark of a Giant is a fascinating read that I will revisit again when I need reminding that it is through the hard work, persistence, courage and faith of people like you and me that the Lord’s work is accomplished on this earth.
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