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March’s Discussion: The Shack Posted on March 11, 2009 12:00 AM MST by Sara Richardson
For me, some of the strengths in the book are the images it brings to mind. I love the idea of lying on the dock underneath the stars with Jesus, of sitting on the porch and eating scones with God, of watching God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit interact amongst themselves. That to me just seemed like heaven. How wonderful to be able to see and hear and feel God’s presence so closely and intimately. Those aspects of the book were fascinating to me because they were so creative. I love that God appeared to Mack in a way that would speak to him, that was exactly what he needed. Someone soft and nurturing and loving, which is all true to God’s character. I also liked that the book addressed the question of pain, and ultimately showed how God can use even the most tragic and devastating situations for good. At times, though, I thought the book got a little preachy. Some of Mack’s discussions with Papa and Jesus and Sarayu seemed a little stilted. They went on and on with Papa or Jesus or Sarayu explaining the same thing three different ways. And the actual writing isn’t groundbreaking or even impressive. Parts of it are a bit awkward to read. While I appreciated the central theme of grace, I also had some issues with the author’s theology. Throughout the book he obviously has an agenda for criticizing the church and hints toward a universal view of salvation. Needless to say, I definitely didn’t agree with all of his interpretations. Overall, I though the book presented an intriguing picture of God’s love. I didn’t read it like a theology book, or even as a “Christian” book. I simply read it as a story and I think that’s the best explanation of what it is. If you haven’t had the opportunity yet, it’s definitely worth reading. If you have read it, what did you like about it? What didn’t you like? Feel free to chime in! |
 
Blog Roll 101 Cookbooks ACFW Blog Amber Stockton, Author Angela Hunt, Author Athol Dickson, Author Books & Such Literary Camy Tang, Author/Editor Carla Stewart, Author Chip MacGregor, Literary Agent Chris Richards, Writer Christianity Today Movie Blog Christianity Today Political Blog Craft Cinema Girls Write Out Hearts at Home Hero Arts Blog Jan Parrish, Bold and Free Ministries Jody Hedlund, Author Kasey Heinly, Writer Lisa McKay, Author Megan DiMaria, Author Michael Hyatt, Leading with Purpose Nancy Rue, Author Nathan Bransford, Literary Agent Nichole Baart, Author Patti Lacy, Author Paula Moldenhauer, Writer Rachelle Gardner, Literary Agent Red Hot Read, Denise Holmes Robbie Iobst, Writer/Speaker The Pioneer Woman Tina Ann Forkner, Author Yummy Treats |
Since this book has gotten so much attention, we figured it would be a great one to launch our new book discussion forum. I finally got around to reading it and found myself going back and forth between loving it and disliking it.