Rapture Ready!

What does it mean when a band is judged by how hard they pray rather than how hard they rock? Would Jesus buy “Got Jesus?” T-shirts or sport “witness wear”? What do Christian skate parks, raves, and romance novels say about evangelicalism — and America? Meticulously reported, with the perfect blend of amusement and respect, Rapture Ready! is the story of Daniel Radosh’s investigation into the wondrous but deeply weird world of Christian pop culture. This sprawling subculture — a $7 billion industry and growing — provides crucial insight into the social, spiritual, and political aspirations of evangelical Christians. In 18 towns from the Bible Belt to the outskirts of Hollywood, Radosh encounters dozens of memorable characters, including Bibleman, the Caped Christian; Rob Adonis, the founder and star of ultimate Christian wrestling; Ken Ham, the nation’s leading prophet of creationism; and Jay Baker, the son of Jim and Tammy Faye Baker and pastor of his own liberal, punk rock church. From Christian theme parks to Passion plays and comedy nights, Radosh combines gonzo reporting with a keen eye for detail and just the right touch of wit. Rapture Ready! is a revealing survey of a parallel universe, a unique perspective on one of America’s most important social movements.