The Next Fithian by Rick Barry

The Next Fithian (The Next Fithian, #1)

by Rick Barry

Was this a new life – or a death sentence?

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 dimension. What happened to the previous Fithian? “He was killed,” the angel says before vanishing.

On Zemna, 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 a message with this planet. Instead, he becomes a slave. What he really wants is a trip back to Earth.

With the aid of 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.

Reviewed by Book Zone Reviews on

5 of 5 stars

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Don't Count Out Our Youth!

The Next Fithian was a 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 of spreading 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 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 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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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 22 December, 2021: Finished reading
  • 22 December, 2021: Reviewed