I don’t normally read religious fiction, but on principle I like to keep an open mind on reading material, so this fit the bill. The Shack begins with a terrible tragedy that befalls a father of three, Mack, an ordinary man of faith. Drowning in grief that is severe enough to threaten his faith, he goes on a mystical journey to heaven, or a place like it. He encounters several personifications of religious beings who offer their wisdom, including God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and Sophia, who is somewhat out of place as a Greek Goddess.
A book like this has the power to change one’s faith; it’s that good. It didn’t change mine, however it did inspire me to write a couple poems that I’m deeply proud of. I walked away from the book feeling moved by the story, like it made me a more complete person- the best sign of any book worth reading. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the adventure, or to relate with the stages of grief, or to benefit from the insights, which any religion could probably provide. It only means you'd relate to it more. Highly recommended for anyone dealing with grief and loss.
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