The Shack

From what I hear Evangelicals think William P. Young is too liberal, while other complain the book isn't "Christian" enough. I find the theology fascinating, pushing evangelicalism to its limits (a good thing) and opening the door for discussions. I used to be an Evangelical Christian myself and although I no longer quite hold to that paradigm, I enjoyed the book and found some of my own experiences with God reflected in it.

I have spent a good amount of time deciding how to best describe my thoughts on "The Shack" without letting myself become caught in either of the extremes which seem to have developed over the content. I always become skeptical when I see this sort of excitement develop over a book. At the same time, I feel strongly that this was not a "middle of the scale" experience for me as I read it.

I found caution and constant perspective to be useful as I considered the author's message. Having let the content "sink in" for a few days, I believe I will recommend the book to others with the caveat that they too approach with a clear understanding that the book is fiction and intended as such - but that it is a very useful point from which to base a personal reflection. As a discussion of the Trinity and as an examination of institutional religion vs. a spiritual relationship with each of the three persons of the Holy Trinity - it was very powerful.

I found the idea of the three persons of the Trinity in relationship with one another - and in turn with us (me) as compelling and stimulating. The book was a good way to approach some very dense theology which the book does well to "point to" without asserting an academic character. To think for a moment that "The Shack" gives any academic treatment to certain theological truths is to give the book way too much (read inappropriate) credit. Any thoughts of using the text to learn these truths should be avoided. However, reading it as a healthy challenge to what you think you know, or reading it to form the basis for your own reflection from which to learn would be far more appropriate.

I give "The Shack" 3 stars. Five stars would mean it was near perfect - and this book misses that mark for the following reasons: I felt a little rushed in the final resolution; the conversational style and word choices were just a little off-putting - (detailed below); and the book can be damaging to a reader who approaches the text with the hope of finding the key to their understanding of God.

As to the style of the author: Without any disrespect intended to the author's first work - the style is just a little abrasive for me because of the characteristic flowery adverbs that are sprinkled generously throughout. To use the style of the author and a scriptural paraphrase to explain - As I read, I wanted to experience a beautiful and expansive field of wheat... but the author went into the field at night, and sowed daisies among the wheat seeds. As the seeds grew together, and as I then later experience the book, I was too often distracted by the shock of the bold flowers that were randomly mixed in and among the good grain that I much preferred to experience...

The book has a certain lack of luster and professional polish - but that I think is precisely what also made it fascinating. When you read "The Shack" (and you should) just be careful you don't then go out into the world and start manufacturing consolations for yourself and attributing them to Sarayu.

Wow! Hardly any of the middle stars in the reviews (almost none). Reviewers either selected 5 stars or 1 star! That must mean there really is something to this book! I have been going through a tough time emotionally as of late (forget black friday... this was my black November). A real time of searching. A "What have I been created for type of thing." And I must say, I have found great healing in this book. After reading one of the chapters I realized that I no longer believed in God. I used to, but now I didn't any longer. What I mean by that is I used to believe in the real, touchable, miracle working God. But, somehow over time, my faith had dwindled to the point where I almost didn't see God as touchable... or good... anymore. This book is helping to revive that belief in God that I had with Him at the start... when all things were new. That is about all I can say for now. But, I am glad that this book crossed my path. And if the message in the book is true, then I'd have to say that it was by divine appointment that brought this book my way. Thank-you God!

This story touched me so deeply that I had to go out and buy several copies to give as christmas gifts. It reminds me that God could be anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Makes you stop and re-evaluate youself and your attitude. A must read!

When I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The Shack is a gripping story that beautifully illustrates God's desire for deep, intimate relationship with us. I would say this is a "must read" regardless of your "religious" orientation.