Who should lead us? Who should we, as a community, look to for guidance? These questions, as old as humankind, followed the Israelite community upon their return from the Exile: Should they return with Davidic kingship or without it? Their answer was the figure of King Saul. Reading Israel?s first king as a riddle or the epitome of Israel?s experience with kingship, King Saul?s Asking explores the characterization of the figure Saul, the question of the apparent silence of God, the multiple complexities of responsibility for kingship, and the readers? opportunities for transformation. It provides a new approach to the Old Testament, supplying the reader with not only an in-depth character study but also an interesting, insightful read, and opportunity for transformation.Chapters are ?Asking a Child (1 Samuel 1-3),? ?Seeking a Refuge (1 Samuel 4-7),? ?Request for a King (1 Samuel 8-12),? ?Obedience Wanted, Wanting (1 Samuel 13-15),? ?Suspecting the Dreaded (1 Samuel 16-19),? ?Futile Searching (1 Samuel 20-23),? ?Sensing the Silent (1 Samuel 24-26),? and ?Final Questions.??This is a fascinating book that introduces the reader to a new approach to the ancient text. It serves to engage the contemporary reader of Saul?s story, which was written to deal with a dilemma faced by another generation of believers. However, Green is able to glean from that ancient story new possibilities for the transformation of the believer today. It is the type of book that will enrich both the scholar and the general reader.? Catholic Library World?This book is a welcome follow-up to Green?s earlier introduction to Bakhtin and biblical studies. From the opening question to the final questions, we are invited into a process of reading grounded in strategies associated with Bakhtin?s thought. The result is a dynamic, exciting, and ultimately enriching experience?one that both professionals and students will welcome.? Charles William Miller Department of Philosophy and Religion University of North Dakota?Barbara Green is one of the best biblical ?readers? around, combining rigorous and creative literary-critical skill with a deeply felt commitment to elucidating the ways in which biblical texts can beckon us to a richer sense of ourselves. In her hands, Saul is neither the tragic hero, nor the pompous sinner. Green's compassionate reading transforms an ancient king into an accessible, flawed but tormented, man with much to say to our present-day human condition. This book is a gift to students and scholars of biblical narrative, as well as those who would like an introduction to the benefits of reading the Bible through the linguistic and ethical lenses of Mikhail Bakhtin.? Carleen Mandolfo Assistant Professor Department of Religious StudiesColby CollegeWaterville, Maine?Professor Green?s sophisticated yet extremely clear reading of the Saul narratives allows their rich meanings to shine forth beautifully for a new generation of readers. Dr. Green writes with both verve and precision. King Saul?s Asking provides a fascinating treatment of the character and the politics of Israel?s first king. This fine book also stimulates reflection regarding the regal tendencies that continue to be played out in readers? lives and in the politics of the contemporary world.? Richard J. Cassidy Professor of Sacred Scripture Christ the King Seminary East Aurora, New York?A very intriguing technique used throughout is the posing of questions, both of the literary character of the text and of the biblical characters themselves. All of this opens the text in new and interesting ways. This is a book for student and teacher alike.? The Bible Today?The study aims to integrate certain aspects of historical studies with literary issues; while likewise highlighting the insights generated by the portrayal of Saul?s relationship with God for spirituality.? Old Testament Abstracts"A strong reading such as Green's will stand on its own and point beyond itself." The Bibl