Book Review: Blue Like Jazz

Probably everyone who wanted to read Donald Miller’s Blue Like Jazz, has already read it, but I was not interested in the book until I realized that Miller also wrote Prayer and the Art of Volkswagen Maintenance (retitled Through Painted Deserts), which I really enjoyed and is a standard present I give to graduates. Then, between seminary reading and awaiting a copy from Paperback Swap, I just recently got around to reading Blue Like Jazz.

With Blue Like Jazz, Miller wrote a decent book. I consider Prayer and the Art of Volkswagen Maintenance a much better written book. At his core, Miller is a storyteller. Reading Prayer and the Art of Volkswagen Maintenance is like reading the book of Esther; God may not be mentioned by name, but one can see him everywhere. For his next book, I felt like Miller’s publisher told him if every chapter had a theological theme it would sell better, as it could more easily be used for small group studies. However, Miller must have fought back a little by refusing to put his book into the 12 chapter quarterly lesson format. The resulting work contains a disjointed narrative and a scatter shot of biblical themes and Christian human struggles. Musical jazz has more flow and hook than Miller’s attempt at writing jazz-style.

The book improved as it went along. The second half of the book speaks on living as an authentic follower, believer, and lover of Jesus, in other words, living as a true disciple, as Miller relays stories about living in community, both in the community of other Christians and as members of the human race. Like the epistle of James, for Miller actions speak louder than belief. As an introvert, I related to Miller and some of his interactions with others. I also have people I need to ask for forgiveness, learn to really listen to, love, and allow into my friendship circle. Blue Like Jazz was worth reading just for this learning, but I will not be making gifts of this book.