The Shack

As a result of conversation with several persons, I have just read The Shack by William P. Young. I wasn’t sure that I wanted to take the time to read it as it didn’t seem as though it was the type of book that usually interests me. Several times during the first sixty or so pages I was ready to quit. Yet, the twists and turns in the story line began to capture my interest and theological insights were emerging in most interesting ways. The author uses this fictional account of a father in the midst of “Great Sadness” following the murder of his young daughter to explain a lot of things about God as revealed in the Trinity. The wrestling with some of the timeless theological questions that most of us face at some time or another leads the reader into important reflection and that is the value of this book.

Each one of us finds God in different places and ways. Sometimes it is in fictional writing. However, because of the limitations of this genre it is difficult to really know what the author means by what he says. The author cannot always adequately offer explanations or provide footnotes to scripture. Also, the emotional impact of reading fiction can become manipulative and thwart our ability to discern what is true and what is not. So, proceed with caution and discernment if you choose to read this book.