The Shack

The Shack (fiction) by William P. Young (2007)

My pastor mentioned the book in passing at Easter Sunday service.
Both my daughter and I busily scribbled down the title; we’re always eager for good book recommendations.

After reviewing it on Amazon, I thought I’d purchase it and read it for family devotions.

After all, Eugene Peterson (editor of "The Message" and author of numerous books) wrote:
“This book has the potential to do for our generation what John Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress' did for his.”

But after reading the book I can say that there is no way I could read this book aloud.
One just couldn’t read the story without weeping.
The gripping story pulls at your heart.

It's a story of a man who experences a terrible family tragedy and suffers afterward with The Great Sadness.
This is the story about how God reached out and mets his need, changing both his life and his familys.

This story should be read by anyone who has been effected by tragedy,
By those disenfranchised with God,
By those that desire an intimate story of God’s loving care for his children.

It's a story you will have to share with others.
It's a story of God's love.

Rob

 

In another thread Karen posted this:

Karen, I've seen this review...and I don't entirely disagree with it

BUT people need to understand and read fiction within the parameters of its genre

Don't expect to find a deeper theology or inerrant doctrine in work of a fiction!

IMO the author of the review went overboard, expecting more out of a work of fiction than it has to offer.

For example, I can overlook the modalistic tendencies within the book as it attempts to explain the trinity, understanding that the author had to work under certain parameters in order to make the book flow.

The book is simply a tool for further exploration.

I recieved this email yesterday from the woman I purchased a book for.

Do you think I'll have a better chance to tell her of God's love and grace next time I see her?

Rob