{"title":"Michael J Lowis","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"gospel-miracles-what-really-happened-book-michael-j-lowis-9781498204279","title":"The Gospel Miracles: What Really Happened?","description":"The Gospel Miracles examines the thirty-five miracles performed by Jesus, as reported in the four Gospels. The objectives are firstly to try and determine what really happened at the time they were enacted and, secondly, to see if it is possible to explain them. This exercise is neither an attempt to deny miracles, nor to blindly accept the accounts as inerrant, but it is an unbiased attempt to arrive at the truth. The findings conclude that sometimes there are possible naturalistic or simple alternative explanations to a supernatural one. However, this does not discount the possibility that Jesus employed natural means at the right time for the right reasons. The Gospel Miracles concludes with a summary of some more modern reports of miraculous events. Taking each of the thirty-five mighty works recorded in the canonical gospels, whether healings or so-called nature miracles, he subjects each to a rigorous examination to establish the reliability and accuracy of the accounts, leading to a verdict as to whether on balance the accounts should be taken at face value or can be judged as having a naturalistic or symbolic explanation. His knowledge of New Testament Greek and of medicine, as well as his acquaintance with the views of expert biblical commentators up to the present day, are impressive. His honesty and clarity are highly commendable. --Albert Jewell, visiting research fellow, Glyndŵr University, Wrexham, UK Michael J. Lowis provides a wonderfully eloquent account of the gospel miracles. He takes a 'supported philosophical-deductive approach' in grappling with faith-based and rational or logical explanations. Whether using faith, science, medicine, or law to prove these reportings, this precious book allows the reader to form their own conclusions. It is a timely call to attention in the growing quest of what actually constitutes evidence. --Ross Prior, Associate Professor, The University of Northampton, Northampton, UK Michael Lowis is a Chartered Psychologist in the UK, and a retired university lecturer. He is also in the final stages of studying for a degree in theology. Lowis is the author of over fifty academic articles and book chapters, and is retained in an honorary position at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ VERY_GOOD \/ INTERNAL","offer_id":49578080370961,"sku":"GOR009336401","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52353727856913,"sku":"NLS9781498204279","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"US \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":53338104594705,"sku":"NIN9781498204279","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/1498204279.jpg?v=1751085772"},{"product_id":"what-do-we-know-about-god-book-michael-j-lowis-9781532633591","title":"What Do We Know about God?","description":"God has been around for a long time--in fact from the very beginning--but what do we actually know about him? Perhaps this is a silly question, because many people will regard the God of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as unknowable. Nevertheless, this book explores the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) to unearth just what is revealed about the nature and persona of the Deity. Early chapters discuss the first signs of religious beliefs, and the origins of the major religions. Ten chapters are devoted to what the Scriptures reveal about God's origin, attributes, and activities. These include miracles, making laws, punishing, rewarding, answering prayers, and predicting a future Messiah. A final chapter summarizes and draws conclusions. The sheer number of details gleaned from the biblical texts helps the reader to see God as an entity, with a personality who has attributes, likes, and dislikes. He rejoices, but also laments; he has a presence, he is available, he hears our prayers. Those who were a little unsure about the authenticity of God should have their confidence in him strengthened by the amount of information presented. They can then explore this further for themselves. Michael J. Lowis takes the reader on an inspiring journey to reveal God's nature through relevant examples and insightful observations about the Hebrew scriptures. Readers will find their curiosity sparked and a deeper engagement with their understanding of God developed. A brief discussion of the origins of religion and the major world religions, in addition to the comprehensive exploration of the scriptures, a make this book readers will return to time and again. -- Teresa A. Fisher, Assistant Professor, Bronx Community College Mike Lowis has produced a tour de force in his book. He reveals an encyclopedic knowledge of the Hebrew scriptures, anthropology, theology. This is a book that will challenge many held assumptions and questions about our knowledge of God. I would simply add the Bible was written by men and the author steadfastly refers to God as male when Gen 1:27 indicates God embraces both genders as religions have often shown. Nevertheless, I warmly commend this book. --K. Graham Hawley, Methodist Minister and Former Adult Educator Whether they claim to believe in God or not, many people have little idea of what God is like, and few know what the Bible says about God--particularly in the Old Testament. Michael Lowis explores what scripture says, in a way that will help conservative and liberal Christians--and those who are still seeking for a faith. --John Lansley, Methodist Minister, and Former University Teacher of Social Studies Dr. Michael J. Lowis is both a psychologist and theologian. This book is his fifth, and he has to date also authored over fifty academic papers and book chapters. He is a founder member of The Journal of Applied Arts and Health, and currently serves on its academic board. Now retired from university lecturing, he enjoys the challenge of applying psychological and scientific methodology to theological questions.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ VERY_GOOD \/ INTERNAL","offer_id":49631310905617,"sku":"GOR012572389","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52473812418833,"sku":"NLS9781532633591","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"US \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":53338118586641,"sku":"NIN9781532633591","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/1532633599.jpg?v=1751118001"},{"product_id":"wooden-box-book-michael-j-lowis-9781915692351","title":"The Wooden Box","description":null,"brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ VERY_GOOD \/ INTERNAL","offer_id":49861820317969,"sku":"GOR013801501","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/B0CKB3PZXL.jpg?v=1751412765"},{"product_id":"pharaoh-and-the-shabti-book-michael-j-lowis-9798365333925","title":"The Pharaoh and the Shabti","description":null,"brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"- \/ - \/ -","offer_id":50463368708369,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"GB \/ VERY_GOOD \/ INTERNAL","offer_id":50463369691409,"sku":"GOR013773797","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/B0BMTBFBDB.jpg?v=1751421171"},{"product_id":"euthanasia-suicide-and-despair-can-the-bible-help-book-michael-j-lowis-9781498232944","title":"Euthanasia, Suicide, and Despair: Can the Bible Help?","description":"Despite its title, this is not a morbid or depressing book, but one that it is hoped will bring encouragement and comfort to all who are experiencing life's difficulties, even to the point of wondering if they wish to continue living. However, the question of whether or not it is morally acceptable for people to receive help to end their lives prematurely is a divisive one, but it is one that cannot be ignored. Some countries have already legalized voluntary euthanasia, whilst others are still wrestling with this ethical dilemma. We all hope that we will never be faced with this situation but, if it does arise, where can we turn for help and guidance? The Bible is one useful resource, as over fifty passages have been identified that relate to coping with desperate life circumstances, along with a few instances where a life has been ended prematurely. In addition to identifying and discussing these passages, this book also provides helpful background on the history of the biblical sources used, along with factors influencing their interpretation. Reading this book should provide strength and courage to persevere through life's adversities. Dr. Lowis says the timeless wisdom of past ages can speak to our modern dilemmas. He shows there are no easy answers, but carefully setting out the issues, he puts the reader in a position to better understand and grapple with the subject for themselves. This highly readable book will appeal to a wide spectrum of readers, including students of theology and medicine and those with a pastoral concern looking to the Bible for help. --Peter Cansfield, Former Special Lecturer and Consultant in Public Health Medicine Dr Michael J. Lowis poses the question 'What would we do if someone very close to us had a terminal illness, and pleaded with us to find a way to help them end their life so that they could be at peace?' This book conducts a balanced enquiry into how the Bible, whether interpreted literally or allegorically, assists with those difficult moral and ethical questions. A most thought-provoking read for everyone  --Ross W. Prior, Professor, University of Wolverhampton, UK Michael J. Lowis holds a doctorate in psychology, and has recently completed his studies for a theology degree. Although now retired from full-time work as a university lecturer in the UK, he is retained in an honorary position at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland. Dr Lowis has authored over fifty academic articles and book chapters on both religious and secular topics. His first book was The Gospel Miracles: What really happened?","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"- \/ - \/ -","offer_id":50693321031953,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"GB \/ VERY_GOOD \/ INTERNAL","offer_id":50693321720081,"sku":"GOR014037920","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52487901741329,"sku":"NLS9781498232944","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/1498232949.jpg?v=1750859934"},{"product_id":"euthanasia-suicide-and-despair-can-the-bible-help-book-michael-j-lowis-9781498232968","title":"Euthanasia, Suicide, and Despair: Can the Bible Help?","description":"Despite its title, this is not a morbid or depressing book, but one that it is hoped will bring encouragement and comfort to all who are experiencing life's difficulties, even to the point of wondering if they wish to continue living. However, the question of whether or not it is morally acceptable for people to receive help to end their lives prematurely is a divisive one, but it is one that cannot be ignored. Some countries have already legalized voluntary euthanasia, whilst others are still wrestling with this ethical dilemma. We all hope that we will never be faced with this situation but, if it does arise, where can we turn for help and guidance? The Bible is one useful resource, as over fifty passages have been identified that relate to coping with desperate life circumstances, along with a few instances where a life has been ended prematurely. In addition to identifying and discussing these passages, this book also provides helpful background on the history of the biblical sources used, along with factors influencing their interpretation. Reading this book should provide strength and courage to persevere through life's adversities. Dr. Lowis says the timeless wisdom of past ages can speak to our modern dilemmas. He shows there are no easy answers, but carefully setting out the issues, he puts the reader in a position to better understand and grapple with the subject for themselves. This highly readable book will appeal to a wide spectrum of readers, including students of theology and medicine and those with a pastoral concern looking to the Bible for help. --Peter Cansfield, Former Special Lecturer and Consultant in Public Health Medicine Dr Michael J. Lowis poses the question 'What would we do if someone very close to us had a terminal illness, and pleaded with us to find a way to help them end their life so that they could be at peace?' This book conducts a balanced enquiry into how the Bible, whether interpreted literally or allegorically, assists with those difficult moral and ethical questions. A most thought-provoking read for everyone  --Ross W. Prior, Professor, University of Wolverhampton, UK Michael J. Lowis holds a doctorate in psychology, and has recently completed his studies for a theology degree. Although now retired from full-time work as a university lecturer in the UK, he is retained in an honorary position at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland. Dr Lowis has authored over fifty academic articles and book chapters on both religious and secular topics. His first book was The Gospel Miracles: What really happened?","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"- \/ - \/ -","offer_id":51030828286225,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"US \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":51030830940433,"sku":"NIN9781498232968","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52600007622929,"sku":"NLS9781498232968","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/1498232965.jpg?v=1751021268"},{"product_id":"reincarnation-book-michael-j-lowis-9781532647581","title":"Reincarnation","description":"Have you ever thought that you have had a previous existence? What if you woke up one day and discovered that you had been transported back 4,000 years to an earlier life? This is what happens to Mel, a modern-day architect who is shortly to be married. He returns to his previous incarnation as Melchizedek, a warrior, king, and high priest briefly mentioned in the Bible. Although he considers himself to be ill-equipped to succeed in this role, guidance is always there when needed. From time to time Mel returns briefly to the present, and eventually has to choose between the two existences. Very little is known about Melchizedek. But his name crops up in a few ancient texts including the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Gnostic Gospels discovered in Egypt, The Book of the Secrets of Enoch, and in various Jewish oral and written traditions. Despite the sparsity of information available, the author's intention is always to try and keep the narrative as historically factual and credible as possible. Readers are free to regard the whole account as pure fantasy--or maybe it will provide some food for thought. Hmm, could it actually have happened? This absorbing novel is based on reincarnation and 'moving between lives.' In the hands of a lesser writer such material could be merely speculative, but Mike Lowis fashions it into a compelling and convincing narrative- a real page-turner, in fact. The novel is securely founded on his scholarship and erudition, but will be highly accessible to any intelligent, open-minded reader. Rewards include a visit to the Ark and the Garden of Eden, and a meeting with the archangel Michael. Recommended  --Chris Stanley, Head of English, Pitsford School, United Kingdom Michael Lowis's fast-paced speculative narrative convincingly links the modern and ancient worlds, and the adventures of Mel\/Melchizedek lead us to engage with a range of fascinating philosophical, religious, and spiritual questions. Although Lowis wears his scholarship lightly, it underpins everything in his novel, from the practicalities of living (and ruling) in Old Testament times to the nature of the soul and the possibility of reincarnation. A challenging and stimulating read. --Christopher Ringrose, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia Mike Lowis's creative reworking of the story of Melchizedek in Genesis 14 interweaves biblical themes of the Garden of Eden, the flood, God's sovereignty, and human freedom, with perennial concerns of nationhood and international trade agreements. A figure of blessing and redemption to the people of Salem, Melchizedek is reimagined not just as a man for our time, but outside of time itself, offering an individual view of what is meant by an eternal priesthood. --John Pymm, University of Wolverhampton Dr. Michael J. Lowis is both a psychologist and theologian. This book is his sixth, and he has also authored over fifty research papers and book chapters. He is a founding member of The Journal of Applied Arts and Health, and currently serves on its academic board. Now retired from university lecturing, he enjoys the challenge of exploring some of the bigger questions about life to try and separate facts from myths and legends.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52089001279761,"sku":"NLS9781532647581","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"US \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":53656910233873,"sku":"NIN9781532647581","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/9781532647581.jpg?v=1756905201"},{"product_id":"reincarnation-book-michael-j-lowis-9781532647574","title":"Reincarnation","description":"Have you ever thought that you have had a previous existence? What if you woke up one day and discovered that you had been transported back 4,000 years to an earlier life? This is what happens to Mel, a modern-day architect who is shortly to be married. He returns to his previous incarnation as Melchizedek, a warrior, king, and high priest briefly mentioned in the Bible. Although he considers himself to be ill-equipped to succeed in this role, guidance is always there when needed. From time to time Mel returns briefly to the present, and eventually has to choose between the two existences. Very little is known about Melchizedek. But his name crops up in a few ancient texts including the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Gnostic Gospels discovered in Egypt, The Book of the Secrets of Enoch, and in various Jewish oral and written traditions. Despite the sparsity of information available, the author's intention is always to try and keep the narrative as historically factual and credible as possible. Readers are free to regard the whole account as pure fantasy--or maybe it will provide some food for thought. Hmm, could it actually have happened? This absorbing novel is based on reincarnation and 'moving between lives.' In the hands of a lesser writer such material could be merely speculative, but Mike Lowis fashions it into a compelling and convincing narrative- a real page-turner, in fact. The novel is securely founded on his scholarship and erudition, but will be highly accessible to any intelligent, open-minded reader. Rewards include a visit to the Ark and the Garden of Eden, and a meeting with the archangel Michael. Recommended  --Chris Stanley, Head of English, Pitsford School, United Kingdom Michael Lowis's fast-paced speculative narrative convincingly links the modern and ancient worlds, and the adventures of Mel\/Melchizedek lead us to engage with a range of fascinating philosophical, religious, and spiritual questions. Although Lowis wears his scholarship lightly, it underpins everything in his novel, from the practicalities of living (and ruling) in Old Testament times to the nature of the soul and the possibility of reincarnation. A challenging and stimulating read. --Christopher Ringrose, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia Mike Lowis's creative reworking of the story of Melchizedek in Genesis 14 interweaves biblical themes of the Garden of Eden, the flood, God's sovereignty, and human freedom, with perennial concerns of nationhood and international trade agreements. A figure of blessing and redemption to the people of Salem, Melchizedek is reimagined not just as a man for our time, but outside of time itself, offering an individual view of what is meant by an eternal priesthood. --John Pymm, University of Wolverhampton Dr. Michael J. Lowis is both a psychologist and theologian. This book is his sixth, and he has also authored over fifty research papers and book chapters. He is a founding member of The Journal of Applied Arts and Health, and currently serves on its academic board. Now retired from university lecturing, he enjoys the challenge of exploring some of the bigger questions about life to try and separate facts from myths and legends.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52131423256849,"sku":"NLS9781532647574","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"US \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":53403674378513,"sku":"NIN9781532647574","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/9781532647574.jpg?v=1757510275"},{"product_id":"what-do-we-know-about-god-book-michael-j-lowis-9781532633614","title":"What Do We Know about God?","description":"God has been around for a long time--in fact from the very beginning--but what do we actually know about him? Perhaps this is a silly question, because many people will regard the God of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as unknowable. Nevertheless, this book explores the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) to unearth just what is revealed about the nature and persona of the Deity. Early chapters discuss the first signs of religious beliefs, and the origins of the major religions. Ten chapters are devoted to what the Scriptures reveal about God's origin, attributes, and activities. These include miracles, making laws, punishing, rewarding, answering prayers, and predicting a future Messiah. A final chapter summarizes and draws conclusions. The sheer number of details gleaned from the biblical texts helps the reader to see God as an entity, with a personality who has attributes, likes, and dislikes. He rejoices, but also laments; he has a presence, he is available, he hears our prayers. Those who were a little unsure about the authenticity of God should have their confidence in him strengthened by the amount of information presented. They can then explore this further for themselves. Michael J. Lowis takes the reader on an inspiring journey to reveal God's nature through relevant examples and insightful observations about the Hebrew scriptures. Readers will find their curiosity sparked and a deeper engagement with their understanding of God developed. A brief discussion of the origins of religion and the major world religions, in addition to the comprehensive exploration of the scriptures, a make this book readers will return to time and again. -- Teresa A. Fisher, Assistant Professor, Bronx Community College Mike Lowis has produced a tour de force in his book. He reveals an encyclopedic knowledge of the Hebrew scriptures, anthropology, theology. This is a book that will challenge many held assumptions and questions about our knowledge of God. I would simply add the Bible was written by men and the author steadfastly refers to God as male when Gen 1:27 indicates God embraces both genders as religions have often shown. Nevertheless, I warmly commend this book. --K. Graham Hawley, Methodist Minister and Former Adult Educator Whether they claim to believe in God or not, many people have little idea of what God is like, and few know what the Bible says about God--particularly in the Old Testament. Michael Lowis explores what scripture says, in a way that will help conservative and liberal Christians--and those who are still seeking for a faith. --John Lansley, Methodist Minister, and Former University Teacher of Social Studies Dr. Michael J. Lowis is both a psychologist and theologian. This book is his fifth, and he has to date also authored over fifty academic papers and book chapters. He is a founder member of The Journal of Applied Arts and Health, and currently serves on its academic board. Now retired from university lecturing, he enjoys the challenge of applying psychological and scientific methodology to theological questions.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52136203419921,"sku":"NLS9781532633614","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/9781532633614.jpg?v=1757553230"},{"product_id":"twenty-years-in-south-africa-book-michael-j-lowis-9781532617775","title":"Twenty Years in South Africa","description":"This book narrates the story of a young family that, in the year 1975, made the bold decision to leave the United Kingdom and seek a new life in South Africa. Although intending to stay for just a few years, they only returned some twenty years later. Whilst there, they took the opportunity to visit virtually every town and game park, and five of the neighboring countries. However, this was not just an extended holiday, but an opportunity to study different cultures and customs. Their time there spanned the darkest days of apartheid, through the first signs of change sparked by the Soweto Riots, to the release of Nelson Mandela, the first democratic elections, and beyond. Thus, in addition to this book being partly a travelogue and memoire, it is also an eye-witness commentary on the highs and lows, the good, the bad, the dangers, and the changes that occurred during an eventful time, in that unique country. It should thus appeal not only the general reader who enjoys a yarn about far-away places, but also to those interested in social and cultural history. In Twenty Years in South Africa, Michael Lowis takes the reader on a fascinating journey through his family's unexpectedly extended sojourn in South Africa. Through a collection of memories, reflections, and other accounts, Lowis provides the reader with a wide-ranging insider's view into this complex culture. An engaging and illuminating book, it is a must-read for anyone interested in South African culture and an invaluable resource for those planning to travel there. --Teresa A. Fisher, Bronx Community College (CUNY) Lowis captivates the reader with a charming story of his twenty-year stay in South Africa. His humorous reflections on the history, customs, environments, and peoples of South Africa will be a good read for the general public as well as for the student of the cultural history of South Africa. This memoir has a freshness that will endear the author to his readers. --Johan Nieuwoudt, University of South Africa An immensely readable memoir takes us from Yorkshire to South Africa in pursuit of 'the good life.' From six cardboard boxes of possessions to twenty years in South Africa, this is sure to inspire others to make a sea change. --Ross W. Prior, University of Wolverhampton, UK Lowis is a born storyteller, and Twenty Years in South Africa combines an engaging account of his time in that fascinating country with a liberal perspective on its ongoing transformation. Whether dealing with music, food, landscape, experience of work, or the country's complex politics, he proves to be an independent-minded guide. --Christopher Ringrose, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia Dr. Michael J. Lowis is a psychologist and theologian, with many academic papers to his credit. Now retired, he is retained in an honorary position with the University of Highlands and Islands, Scotland. For this, his fourth book, he has taken a break from scholastic writing, in order to chronicle an account of the joys and challenges experienced by his family when they decided to emigrate from the UK to South Africa.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52139894538513,"sku":"NLS9781532617775","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"US \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":53403671036177,"sku":"NIN9781532617775","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/9781532617775.jpg?v=1757571546"},{"product_id":"twenty-years-in-south-africa-book-michael-j-lowis-9781498242721","title":"Twenty Years in South Africa","description":"This book narrates the story of a young family that, in the year 1975, made the bold decision to leave the United Kingdom and seek a new life in South Africa. Although intending to stay for just a few years, they only returned some twenty years later. Whilst there, they took the opportunity to visit virtually every town and game park, and five of the neighboring countries. However, this was not just an extended holiday, but an opportunity to study different cultures and customs. Their time there spanned the darkest days of apartheid, through the first signs of change sparked by the Soweto Riots, to the release of Nelson Mandela, the first democratic elections, and beyond. Thus, in addition to this book being partly a travelogue and memoire, it is also an eye-witness commentary on the highs and lows, the good, the bad, the dangers, and the changes that occurred during an eventful time, in that unique country. It should thus appeal not only the general reader who enjoys a yarn about far-away places, but also to those interested in social and cultural history. In Twenty Years in South Africa, Michael Lowis takes the reader on a fascinating journey through his family's unexpectedly extended sojourn in South Africa. Through a collection of memories, reflections, and other accounts, Lowis provides the reader with a wide-ranging insider's view into this complex culture. An engaging and illuminating book, it is a must-read for anyone interested in South African culture and an invaluable resource for those planning to travel there. --Teresa A. Fisher, Bronx Community College (CUNY) Lowis captivates the reader with a charming story of his twenty-year stay in South Africa. His humorous reflections on the history, customs, environments, and peoples of South Africa will be a good read for the general public as well as for the student of the cultural history of South Africa. This memoir has a freshness that will endear the author to his readers. --Johan Nieuwoudt, University of South Africa An immensely readable memoir takes us from Yorkshire to South Africa in pursuit of 'the good life.' From six cardboard boxes of possessions to twenty years in South Africa, this is sure to inspire others to make a sea change. --Ross W. Prior, University of Wolverhampton, UK Lowis is a born storyteller, and Twenty Years in South Africa combines an engaging account of his time in that fascinating country with a liberal perspective on its ongoing transformation. Whether dealing with music, food, landscape, experience of work, or the country's complex politics, he proves to be an independent-minded guide. --Christopher Ringrose, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia Dr. Michael J. Lowis is a psychologist and theologian, with many academic papers to his credit. Now retired, he is retained in an honorary position with the University of Highlands and Islands, Scotland. For this, his fourth book, he has taken a break from scholastic writing, in order to chronicle an account of the joys and challenges experienced by his family when they decided to emigrate from the UK to South Africa.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52452505813265,"sku":"NLS9781498242721","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/9781498242721.jpg?v=1759364939"},{"product_id":"gospel-miracles-what-really-happened-book-michael-j-lowis-9781498204293","title":"The Gospel Miracles: What Really Happened?","description":"The Gospel Miracles examines the thirty-five miracles performed by Jesus, as reported in the four Gospels. The objectives are firstly to try and determine what really happened at the time they were enacted and, secondly, to see if it is possible to explain them. This exercise is neither an attempt to deny miracles, nor to blindly accept the accounts as inerrant, but it is an unbiased attempt to arrive at the truth. The findings conclude that sometimes there are possible naturalistic or simple alternative explanations to a supernatural one. However, this does not discount the possibility that Jesus employed natural means at the right time for the right reasons. The Gospel Miracles concludes with a summary of some more modern reports of miraculous events. Taking each of the thirty-five mighty works recorded in the canonical gospels, whether healings or so-called nature miracles, he subjects each to a rigorous examination to establish the reliability and accuracy of the accounts, leading to a verdict as to whether on balance the accounts should be taken at face value or can be judged as having a naturalistic or symbolic explanation. His knowledge of New Testament Greek and of medicine, as well as his acquaintance with the views of expert biblical commentators up to the present day, are impressive. His honesty and clarity are highly commendable. --Albert Jewell, visiting research fellow, Glyndŵr University, Wrexham, UK Michael J. Lowis provides a wonderfully eloquent account of the gospel miracles. He takes a 'supported philosophical-deductive approach' in grappling with faith-based and rational or logical explanations. Whether using faith, science, medicine, or law to prove these reportings, this precious book allows the reader to form their own conclusions. It is a timely call to attention in the growing quest of what actually constitutes evidence. --Ross Prior, Associate Professor, The University of Northampton, Northampton, UK Michael Lowis is a Chartered Psychologist in the UK, and a retired university lecturer. He is also in the final stages of studying for a degree in theology. Lowis is the author of over fifty academic articles and book chapters, and is retained in an honorary position at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland.","brand":"WoB","offers":[{"title":"GB \/ NEW \/ INGRAM","offer_id":52600064278801,"sku":"NLS9781498204293","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0784\/4072\/6801\/files\/9781498204293.jpg?v=1761087916"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.worldofbooks.com\/en-gb\/collections\/author-books-by-michael-j-lowis.oembed","provider":"World of Books ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}