I don’t really write reviews - at least not well. So, consider this a discussion.
I finished reading The Shack by William P. Young a few days ago. It is a fictional account of a man (Mack) whose daughter is brutally murdered by a violent pedophile (not a spoiler, it’s on the back cover). But the real story begins when Mack encounters God in a very tangible form 3.5 years later. I was hesitant to read the book because I wasn’t sure I could handle reading about the abduction and murder of the little girl. But while it was indeed difficult, it was worth it.
The book has received a lot of attention from both fans and critics. Reviewers seem to either love it or hate it (tha’s when you know you’ve got something good). Trinitarians believe it is too modalist, while oneness believers find it way too trithiestic. It is certainly unconventional in it’s portrayals of the Father (a motherly black woman), the Son (an easygoing carpenter), and the Holy Ghost (a young Asian woman). But, I have to say that the story was a great blessing to me, and has had a major impact on how I view my relationship with God. It solidified some of the things that I have believed deep down for a long time, but couldn’t put into words.
When I first started reading, I wasn’t very impressed with the writing style - it just wasn’t really my thing. But I kept reading, and as I got further into it, I realized that the style seemed to work well for the content. The book touches on issues of pain, anger, evil and free will - and it doesn’t back down on any of them. You will almost certainly take issue with some of the doctrinal concepts in the book. I think nearly everyone does to some extent. But I encourage you to put down your theological microscope for a day or two, and view this book for what it is - one man’s daydream of what it would be like to confront God face-to-face. I personally didn’t take much issue with the doctrinal approach at all, and I was actually impressed with the attempt to stay true to The Bible - at least conceptually. But I do think it’s important to take it for what it is, and not get too hung up on the doctrine.
Do yourself a favor. Set aside a day or so (it’s a quick read), and see what you think.
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It’s so funny that you were reading this b/c I had seen it on a tv show and thought I need to read that book. Plan on getting it this weekend so maybe we can discuss later…
So I am almost done reading it but I think I will need to read it again just to understand everything. Very philosophical and since I am having to read late at night when I am sleepy I feel like I am missing parts of the book. Very interesting how he talks about the 3 forms of God but yet states very clearly that it is not a trinity. The Judgement section really made me think about my daily life. I think we should have a One Life book discussion on it
So, I’m going into withdrawal…when are we going to get more inspiring Half Writings?
Derrick - I purchased this book after Shana raved about it. I’ve yet to read it - mainly b/c I’m used to fluff reads and I’m not so much into thought provoking reads. Several months ago I decided I was going to challenge myself as well as my brain and read “smart” books. I’ve not gotten very far beyond purchasing a few books here and there. :)Pardon my ramblings..not sure where I was going with this..other than to say that I have the book and will be reading it soon. Thanks for the “discussion.”
Sara-
It took me a while to decide to start reading it. There were some parts of it that I knew would be difficult, but it was worth it. Will be interested to find out what you think.
I recently read this book and I’m amazed at how people seem to either love or hate it. My comments are more negative. I think the book is dangerous, especially for non-mature christians. I think it reduces a Holy God to our way of thinking. I know there are a lot of christians that like it, but I’m not one of them. Just my point of view.
Maureen-
Thanks for the comment. I can see your point somewhat, but where I think the book succeeds is in giving us a way to visualize concepts that we have a hard time understanding. Now, obviously, the author takes a lot of liberties. He assumes many things that may or may not be accurate - things he can’t possibly know. It’s certainly fiction. But my thought on it is this. If a new Christian (or any Christian) adopted his interpretation, they’d probably be just fine.
I think some people have a hard time relating to the mystery aspects of God - and have an easier time accepting some explanation versus no explanation at all. And as long as that explanation isn’t against scripture, I think that’s ok. To me, the book did a good job of providing feasible scenarios for certain things - questions that I have often struggled with personally. It also gave me a more personal concept of Jesus and His involvement in my life. It made be think about things from a different perspective - which is usually a good thing. I think some of the people that really hate the book get too hung up on the doctrinal specifics - more than I suspect the author intended.
It’s not a book for everyone, but I think it can be a source of comfort and inspiration for certain people - myself included.
Thanks again.