The Unlikely Disciple

Kevin Roose

The Unlikely Disciple is a book by journalist and writer Kevin Roose that tells the story of his semester as an undergraduate student at Liberty University, one of the most conservative Christian colleges in the United States.In the book, Roose chronicles his experiences on campus: attending classes, living with fellow students and participating in faith-based activities including mandatory chapel services, prayer meetings and Bible study. At the same time, Roose presents his own observations and experiences as a non-religious student, as well as his debates with the student body and faculty on issues such as abortion and homosexuality.The Unlikely Disciple takes readers on a journey inside one of the most conservative schools in the U.S. and sheds light on the culture, beliefs, and people that make up the college. The book shows the inner workings of Liberty University and how its policies, rules and values can both empower and divide those within its walls. Roose offers unique insight into this unique subculture and encourages readers to think beyond their own experiences.The book also sets the stage for further discussion with questions such as: Are faith and education antithetical? Is there merit to be found in living in and engaging with an environment with which you strongly disagree? By reflecting on his own experiences and presenting interviews from students, faculty and alumni, Roose helps readers answer these questions for themselves.