Hope Road

The True Woman [Susan Hunt]

The True Woman by Susan Hunt ****

The True Woman is one of the first books I have read about biblical womanhood (the only other one I can think of is Girl Talk). I had seen some of Susan Hunt’s books around my parents’ house, but had never read any. On a whim, I picked it up at my school library, and found a treasure. Its subtitle is a perfect summary of its content: “The beauty and strength of a godly woman.”

This book is encouraging and much-needed. Hunt begins by defining the “true woman” versus the “new woman.” In the next section, she describes four aspects of the true woman’s identity – for example, “a reflection of redemption.” Lastly, she discusses four aspects of the true woman’s virtue – purity, piety, domesticity, and submission. The book is clear, balanced, and realistic; it is firmly rooted in and built upon Scripture.

Refreshingly relevant are the real-life stories before each chapter, dealing with issues such as infertility, financial problems, and even rape. Hunt argues from truth to experience, but through these stories she shows the relevance of the truth she is sharing. And the stories testify to the power and grace of the gospel in women’s lives.

Some readers may weary of Hunt’s obviously Presbyterian perspective with her frequent repetition of the phrase “covenant community,” but it was not a huge issue for me, although I would prefer simpler phraseology. Also, Hunt’s language and style may be difficult for some; she writes clearly, but intellectually. However, the book would be an excellent resource for a one-on-one discipling relationship or a small group, especially with the inclusion of discussion questions at the end of each chapter.

I greatly enjoyed The True Woman, and I definitely plan on rereading it and absorbing the valuable concepts it sets forth. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to know more about what it means to be a woman of God.

Recommended age level: 16+.