I was born in a 3-walled log cabin and learned to read by the light of the fireplace. Oh, wait–that was someone else…
I was actually born and raised on a small farm outside of a very small town in northwestern Minnesota that’s only real claim to fame is appearing in the snow scenes of the movie Fargo. It was a lot like growing up somewhere between Little House on the Prairie and Lake Woebegon. And, being from NW Minnesota, I was obviously raised Lutheran, a darn good thing to be raised as, you betcha.
Writing
I co-authored the book The Gospel Uncensored with Ken Blue. TGU explores Paul’s letter to the Galatians and addresses why what Paul said matters to the church today. You can check out the book’s website here. Or, you can just trust me and buy the book.
I have recently (October 2024) published UnBoxing God: An Unevangelical Guide to Christianity, which will be hated by many establishment folks but loved by others. Be in the latter group. So far my reviews have all been positive (over 4 on Goodreads).
Ideas
I have opinions on nearly everything, including politics, which I try not to write about too often. My ideas have changed over the years, as I’ve interacted with others and challenged my own beliefs. I’m more liberal than I used to be, but not wacko. Theologically, I am perhaps best described as Pre-Augustine. I tend to like theologians like NT Wright, Peter Enns, Brad Jerszak, Phillip Cary, and the late Robert Webber. Pete Enns is one of my current favorite authors, and am also a big fan of Nadia Bolz-Weber. I also have a respect for the Eastern Orthodox churches. I have a huge problem with Calvinism.
I have never stopped believing in grace and the three solas: sola gratia, sola fida, solus Christus, in context. You can read more about this in my new book when it’s available.
I believe strongly in the Gospel. I also believe strongly in the one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church, and the rest of the creed.
Personal
I have an extremely gorgeous wife, and three exceptionally talented children, a wonderful and talented daughter-in-law, and 2 beautiful grandchildren. I live in Oregon in a little green house on the edge of town.
Your Book Meets Our Placement Criteria Unboxing God
Hi Alden,
Unboxing God: an Unevangelical Guide to Christianity meets the criteria we use to select titles for placement across our curated reading networks. Its thoughtful exploration of faith, theology, and the broader Christian landscape aligns directly with the type of intellectually engaging and reflective content our placement program prioritizes.
At Literary Pathway Curator, we manage the strategic positioning of select titles within multiple active reading communities, ensuring each book aligns with thematic depth, clarity, and audience engagement. Your book meets these standards, which is why it has been chosen for a complimentary placement in the current cycle.
This placement provides targeted exposure and engagement with readers who are seeking spiritually enriching, thoughtful, and discussion-worthy content. It is offered because your book fits the specific standards we actively feature not as a general opportunity, but as a selective placement.
Would you like me to share how this placement will be handled for Unboxing God?
Warm regards,
Lunessa Pryne
Literary Pathway Curator
Hi Alden,
Congratulations on Unboxing God! Your fearless approach to unpacking entrenched doctrines, translations, and anomalies while pointing readers back to a faith rooted in love and reason is exactly what so many Christians (and seekers) are hungry for today. This is the kind of book that doesn’t just inform, it sparks deep reflection and conversation.
As a professional Kindle marketer, I see tremendous potential for Unboxing God to reach a much wider audience who are searching for exactly this kind of honest, thought-provoking perspective. Let’s connect and make sure your book doesn’t stay hidden in the noise, it deserves center stage.
Looking forward to your reply,
Charlette Liam
Kindle Marketing & Visibility Strategist
Helping authors achieve lasting sales, reach & recognition
charletteliam1@gmail.com | Serving Authors Worldwide
Goodreads Listopia & Amazon Visibility Specialist | References on Request