I first came across this book a year ago, when a friend was reading it and recommended it to me. I turned it down then, due to the fact the storyline involves a father who is struggling to come to turns with his 6 year old daughters abduction and murder.
Personally, i absorb the feelings and emotions of book characters, and they effect me deeply, and play havoc with my life for weeks after the actual book has ended. This has positive aspects to it, when i seek out happily-ever-after type books. I avoid thrillers, and sad stories where i can unless there is a tale of redemption worth the effort.
However, The Shack kept coming up. A few weeks ago at our church library it sprang off the shelves into my hands, I brought it home, with no willingness to read it, and it sat on my bedside cabinet for a few weeks, gathering dust and supporting coffee cups.
I picked it up last night, after a wrestle with myself. I really did not want to read this book! I told myself, that if it was too sad, i could just take it back.
But as i read the first chapter, i found myself intrigued with the characters. And even as i read about them planning for their ill-fated camping trip, i read on.
To my delight, the book dealt less with the details of death and murder, (although there are some stomach churning moments) and became a story about how God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit can use any circumstance to the betterment of people. God in this book took on the persona of an African American Women, and with the help of Jesus and Suraya (Holy Spirit) took the main character, Mack, on a fantastic journey of healing and forgiveness.
The concepts of God contained in this book have value to the believer and non believer alike. You simply cant argue with God's reasonable, firm and loving answers to Mack's anger and dissapointment.
The hope given to anyone who has lost a loved one in any circumstance, washes over you, as you get a glimpse of heaven, revealed through the Authors revelation.
The Shack isn't a book, it is a journey on a wild rollercoaster with many twists an turns and the occasional heart stopping moment. They'll be tears aplenty, and much spiritual growth as you come to know God just that little bit closer.
Its easy to relate to Mack, as the central character. He expresses himself well, His grief is palatable, and lets face it, Who among us has not shaken our fists at Gods lack of action on some occasion?
There are answers in this book to many of life's questions. But be warned, as you close this book, there will be more questions for yourself! You cant read this book and wonder where you stand with God.
In conclusion, i am so pleased i had the opportunity to read this book. It has been an absolute pleasure and an eye opener. Was everything theologically correct? Possibly not. Despite that, it has the hallmarks of God's truth all over it. Its left me wondering if it is based on fiction or fact. I suspect a bit of both.
Here is the website, for anyone curious enough to find out more. Don't be surprised if you find me in the discussion forum!
http://www.theshackbook.com/index.html
