REVIEWS

Hulin has a unique voice when compared with other books like this. He’s concise, lighthearted, and direct with a short-story style that tells you like it is in an approachable way. Although direct, it was such a nice way to read his thoughts and messages because it never came across as aggressive or overwhelming. His spirituality was also a refreshing perspective that reminds you that God works in mysterious and, often, small ways, but He still has a sense of humor and a love for His creations. I love that Hulin even tried a little bit of that messaging himself through including a deeper meaning for the cover by including a key in the back of what different pieces in the art symbolize.

Emerson

I don’t particularly believe in what the writer is discussing here. However, I have family who does. As a person who values open communication on all topics, I have been reading more and more texts such as this in order to talk with my family about what matters to them. Hulin does a very good job wrapping religion and religious discussion around text in a way that is readable and understandable to a non-religious audience, which is immensely helpful. The book is also well-organized, clear, and concise.

Katherine d.

Such an engaging read! Michael Hulin is a simple man from humble beginnings in Louisiana, yet his faith in God is powerfully moving. Each short story in the book is an example of the signs and symbols God sends Hulin to remind him of His love and presence in his life. Some of the stories (especially those dealing with animals) are humorous, others are wondrous, and some are tragic. But they all weave together a narrative of one man's relationship with God. Hulin is on a mission to share with the world what God has shown him. The result is this inspirational book.

Jen B.

ONLY THE OIL is a hopeful, inspirational book about the wonders of God and his creations. Hulin’s testimonies are short but mighty, and each one packs a huge punch. Hulin was inspired to link even the smallest of occurrences and events to God, demonstrating that everything can be related back to God, the creator of everything. ONLY THE OIL is one of those books that will stick with me for years to come. It has renewed my faith and put me into a more positive, hopeful mindset. I’ll definitely be revisiting this throughout my life whenever I feel doubt or discouragement creep in, and I’m sure it will reinvigorate my faith just as it did with this initial reading.

Lalala

I really enjoyed my time with ONLY THE OIL, a collection of experiences that illuminates how present God is in our lives if we open our eyes. I found the vignette-style of writing compelling, and the author's voice is filled with humor and deep conviction. Additionally, there's a poetic elegance in the way Hulin describes the many ways God has touched his days. He doesn't claim that having faith in the Lord's presence is easy, he just reaffirms that being filled with awe and hope is worth it. My own faith was reignited after reading this book. I look at the trees differently again; I try to remember my dreams more. The key at the end, which highlights the symbolism of the cover art, is also a very nice treat for readers. Everything has meaning in this book, and that's a really lovely, and rare, find these days. Well done to this faith-filled human.

Laura A.