"Hear No Evil" by Matthew Paul Turner

"Hear No Evil: My Story of Innocence, Music, and the Holy Ghost" by Matthew Paul Turner is unique in every sense of the word. Growing up as a Fundamentalist Southern Baptist, Turner lives very strictly. His family's interpretation of God revolves around being ashamed of sin and ignoring popular culture. However, most of the book focuses on the constraints on music. Besides thinking that most secular music is evil, it is interesting to know that Turner's congregation also frowned upon Christian musicians that did not fit their cookie-cutter mold. Musicians that did not mention Jesus enough in their songs or used rock-based beats were seen as malevolent. The humor with which Turner tells his story keeps the reader entertained. Turner leads readers through his life, his career, his journey with God, and his reconciliation with music. Readers are hooked on Turner's curt speech in the beginning of the book. "At my church whenever someone capable of emotional honesty became a member, it created a situation similar to my father's lectures about a new puppy: 'As long as it never poops on the carpet, I'll let it be an 'inside dog.' Anyone was welcome to join us for worship on Sundays, as long as they never emotionally pooped on the carpet" (Turner, 8).

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

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