I first heard about this book on NPR and was hooked as the author John S. Friedman talked about his research. I have always been awed by lightning and was curious to see how much myth and superstition he would bring into this book. So I picked it up from the library and dug in.
I did enjoy this book a lot and I learned so much about lightning and its impact on humanity and history. For instance I did not know that Ben Franklin's lightning rod sparked so much Theological debate about God's punishment vs this new technology. I really had no idea how much lightning affected the daily lives of people and how much it impacted history (especially Church history.)
I also learned so many facts about lightning that I never knew. Like how most people aren't hit by the direct bolt but usually a splash off. And I learned that lightning can be generated up to 30 minutes before and after a storm. You can literally be hit seemingly "out of the blue."
As much as I enjoyed reading that book, the jury is still out as to whether I should have read it. As a hypochondriac I will probably make a bee line indoors and stay away from all faucets, telephones, and outlets at the first sign of lightning. But I will also be peeking out the nearest window to watch God's light show.
Now I know why you were a bit nervous about Rachel dancing outside in the rainstorm!
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