Book Review: The Shack by William P. Young

The Shack by William P. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed "The Shack." It certainly contains a lot of interesting, thought provoking and controversial ideas. Reading it caused me to focus and reexamine my own beliefs, especially regarding relationships with God, my family and other human beings. Relating to God and others is the principal theme of the book. The central character, Mack, learns about these relationships through his visit with God in "The Shack."

I don't consider this a classic in any way. But I found it hard to stop reading. There are plot and concept inconsistencies that bothered me a little but not enough to detract from the overall message.

While I disagree with much of William Young's theology, I agree with the idea that "God is Love" and that a proper understanding of God and relating to him enriches life. Finally knowing God and loving Him allowed Mack to unload his burdens, enjoy life, and experience joy. In a sense, the novel is more about cosmic and personal psychology than a coherent theology.

It is quite understandable why this book evokes strong feelings, positive and negative. I experienced many feelings while reading. Perhaps that is what a good book does best. It causes us to feel, think and experience. "The Shack" did that for me.

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