Book Reviews

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Prophet’s Reward is Chapter 14 of Fine Line, the sequel to Woodcutter’s Revival. Both books, written by Jerry Slauter are historical fiction, set at the beginning of the final phase of the Industrial Revolution.

Daryl accompanies the Editor-in-Chief to Lafayette to visit Battle Ground. Since the time of the Civil War, Indiana residents attempt to build a monument to the Battle of Tippecanoe on the site. Richard explains the purpose of their visit is to write an article about the battle and the battleground since tax money would probably fund some of the project.

On the trip to Lafayette, Richard explained the history of William Henry Harrison, Tecumseh and Tenskwatawa, (meaning “Open Door”) also called “The Prophet.” Richard told Daryl that Battle Ground had national significance, yet was not well known. Tecumseh was a charismatic leader and forming an alliance of the remaining Native American tribes in the Indiana Territory. The purpose was to defend their homes and land granted by United States treaties.

Harrison, governor of the Indian Territory attempted to discredit Prophet, who claimed to have spiritual powers. Harrison even challenged the Prophet to prophesy some event of “Biblical proportion.” A battle resulted on November 7, 1811.

As Fine Line continues, the son of the Editor-in-Chief, Pastor Richard Douglas is introduced. He and Daryl discuss whether the Prophet was a prophet sent by God or a false prophet using some form of divination. Pastor Richard quotes the words of Jesus, “Receive a prophet in the name of a prophet and receive a prophet’s reward.” (Matthew 10:41)

The following is an excerpt from Chapter 14, Prophet’s Reward:

Richard said, “I do not claim to be a prophet, or be able to interpret dreams. I know dreams and prophecies have three sources. In some, God is telling us something significant. In others, we are only projecting our own hopes and desire or fears. I'm not sure, but others can possibly be demoniacally inspired.”

At this point, the Editor-in-Chief stirred, took his hat down and rejoined the two. He said, “You didn't tell Daryl the best part about Prophet’s curse.”

Pastor Richard said, “I figured you had already told him. Besides, you were sleeping. How do you know what we were talking about?”

The Editor- in-Chief just gave a mischievous smile. Young Richard, glancing sceptically at his father, continued, “The Prophet predicted that Harrison would become the father of the great land. He also predicted that Harrison would die in office and every great father elected on the even score of years would die in office. Harrison was defeated by Van Buren in eighteen thirty-six. He was elected to president in eighteen-forty. He gave a lengthy inaugural speech in the rain, in January, without a raincoat. He caught pneumonia and died thirty days later, becoming the shortest term president.”

Daryl gazed in disbelief. Richard continued, “Every president since Harrison, elected on the even twenty year interval has died in office, from assassination or natural causes. The prophets in the Bible could be killed for a wrong prediction, or for just offending the political or religious leaders. Harrison, who did not receive Prophet as a prophet died at the height of his power, and demonstrated how human he actually was. An expedition sent up Wildcat Creek to capture or kill Prophet shortly after the battle of Tippecanoe was bogged down in a blizzard and had to retreat. Prophet died of old age in Kansas.”

Woodcutter’s Revival is available now. Fine Line is due to be released in 2014. Discover more about Prophet’s predictions and Indiana History.

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View all of Jerry Slauter's FaithWriters articles.

About the Author:

Jerry is a retired school teacher and loves to spend time with his family, including children and grandchildren. He also likes to travel and speak about writing. He works in his wood, metal and leather shops at home. Writing aligns well with his passions for reading and research.

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