by Wm. Paul Young
This book is all the rage in Cedar Rapids right now, and it took me about a month before I could get my hands on a copy. When I finally did, I couldn't put it down. I started reading it around midnight last week, and had it finished by three in the morning, knowing full well I had to be out and about at eight later that morning.
The humor in the novel is apparent right from the beginning, also present are undercurrents of sadness and anger. The latter two become more pronounced early on, and remain through the rest of the story. However, they aren't really defeating- it's more active and hopeful, driving and impressive.
Mack Philips' daughter was abducted several years before the introduction, and through flashbacks, the reader learns about the changes that take place as a result of the kidnapping. Told from Mack's point of view, the novel is a roller coaster of emotion as he is forced to face his grief and anger and learn forgiveness. Certain themes in the book also invite the reader to examine her own faith as well as many ideas about religion, politics and society that seem innate.
I didn't find the book predictable. There is a kind of uncertainty that left me wondering whether or not I would be given a happy ending. I knew that it would be bittersweet, regardless of the circumstances, but I wasn't quite sure if I would be satisfied with the finale. Young's writing is powerful and it gave me my own 'Aha!' moment as I was immersed in Mack's struggles.
There were times when I thought my tear ducts would just explode, and suddenly the situation called for laughter instead of tears. It made me consider a little more deeply my impressions of God and the Trinity, because the presence of God is not what you expect. I think I also learned a little about courage- facing your worst nightmare or biggest fear, and finding new faith through that. It was encouraging also, because the book reinforces my belief that God is good and can always make love and life come from bad experiences.
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