The Shack by William P. Young

I am old on getting this post up. I read this book last July (so 2008, people). I kept meaning to write a review... but I never got around to it. Why? Because it daunted me. So many people have so many opinions on this book...

Everything from:

"It's so awesome!!"

to:

"It's blasphemous!"

There are lots of articles and other blog posts on it. However, I have been meaning to give my opinion on it, so here it goes.

The story draws you in. I couldn't put it down. I wanted to know what happened. But mainly because I could see what was happening from about a mile away and wanted to know if I was right of if I was going to get fooled. It was predictable. It wasn't always what you expected (God as a woman...). Some statements I agreed with. Some I totally didn't. But, there are times I agree with a sermon at church and times when I don't. Isn't that normal?

Overall -- you can read the book. I personally would only recommend it to strong Christians who are looking for an easy read or to be challenged in what they think theologically. I wouldn't recommend it to new Christians or non Christians because I wouldn't want them to get confused or mislead or ... well, you get the picture.

And because it was such a hot button topic for a while... here are various posts and opinions on the book.

Post 1: Burnside Writer's Blog
Post 2: Ideas from Tim Challies

Post 3: Bryan Allain

But my final opinion on the book? It won't stand the test of time (Sorry William P. Young!). It is a passing fad and soon it will be some other book people are ranting and raving about.

Have you read it? What do you think?