11th November, 2008

CHELSEA MERRY

The Shack

William P. Young

Windblown Media, 2008

ISBN-10: 0964729237
ISBN-13: 978-0964729230

"I would recommend this book to anyone looking to be challenged in their walk with God."

The Shack is a journey to the heart and soul of a grieving man, battling to trust a God who appears to have no control over the chaos of the world.

When a family trip turns into the biggest tragedy of Mackenzie Phillip's life, he is left in a dark and lonely place, believing, as many do, that a loving God could not stand by and watch such evil being perpetrated by His creation. Years later 'Mack' receives a mysterious note signed 'Papa', beckoning him back to the scene of his nightmares. What follows is a supernatural rollercoaster of events that take him to a new level of reality and into a personal encounter with his Maker, shaking him to the very core of his 'Christian' foundations.

The novel's plot gives a tangible setting for this spiritual dialogue that dares to ask the seemingly unanswerable questions. Young succeeds in telling a gripping story while also revealing timeless truths in a new and dynamic way. This book will no doubt spark robust discussion about theological issues such as the very nature of God and the relationship of the Trinity, the institutionalisation of Western religion and, of course, God's participation in the suffering of mankind.

I have heard it said that this book 'puts God in a box' however I would have to disagree. For this reader, The Shack brought down the four walls in which I had God contained and inspired questions more than it provided answers. It by no means sets out to draw a complete and comprehensive picture of God; instead it dared me explore the Word and personally discover a deeper understanding of the Almighty God we serve.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking to be challenged in their walk with God. It also appropriate for group study as the heavy content is great as discussion material. Finally I would also recommend this book to those who are seeking answers or would like to know more about Jesus Christ and the salvation he offers. Prepare to be confronted and emotionally spent as you follow the story of one man, one God and a weekend at The Shack.

FOR MORE ON BOOKS, visit our books page here...