(Angela)
I am really enjoying this book. I can't say enough good things about it. It is a different perspective on God and the idea that He has a plan for everything. Emily was right when she decided that I would get the Inspiration that I was looking for (and didn't find in Eat.Pray.Love).
I was not sure how I wanted to blog about the book and my reading. Soooo I did a google search and found some great Discussion questions from other book clubs that have read this book. I figured it would be a start.
1.) Were you drawn in by the plot of The Shack?
(Ang): Yes, I found the writing and plot very catching. Once I started reading I wanted to know exactly what happened, and what would happen. There are so many elements in the book that make you think, and I wanted to see what new thought provoking situations were around every corner.
(Em): I did find myself strangely drawn into the plot of The Shack. I wasn't sure what to expect when I first started reading it, and I admit that I was quite skeptical about reading a book based heavily (or so I thought) on a religion I wasn't sure I believed in. This book was given to me by a friend I worked with who had quite strict views on religion. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to get into it because it would push an agenda... I was wrong on that one. From the moment I started reading, I couldn't put the book down.
2.) Why do you think Mack's encounter with God took place at the shack?
(Ang): I think that Mack's encounter with God took place at the shack because that is truly the place were Mack lost faith in God. It is the core of his pain, anger, and distrust in God. It is only through confronting the shack and all that it represents that Mack can regain his relationship with God.
(Em): I think I have to agree with Angela here. His encounter took place at the shack because it was his absolute breaking point with his faith. He lost something he could never get back, and he truly couldn't rationalize why "God" would do such a thing to him. The shack was the site of the major loss and it follows that it should also be the site of the greatest of gifts. His faith.
3.) Did The Shack change any of your opinions about God or Christianity?
(Ang): I have been struggling with my faith for many years. I have been filled with distrust, confusion, and anger at some of the events that have happened in my life. I would say that reading The Shack has definitely made me want to re-explore my relationship with God and have a renewed hope and faith that God has everything in His hands.
(Em): I have to say that I too have been struggling with my faith. I chose to re-read this book to feel again the enlightenment and lightness that I felt once I'd read this book the first time. I may not remember what every word said, but I plan on reading it until I do. My faith has changed, and I find myself looking at God in a very different and more personal way. I really enjoyed listening to the eye-opening explanations that this author wrote into this narrative.
4.) Would you recommend The Shack to a friend?
(Ang): Yes. Definitely. Even if you are not the most religious person, I believe that there are valuable lessons to be taken away from this book.
(Em): As we've already written -- I already have, and I will again. I'm sure.
5.) Rate The Shack on a scale of 1 to 5. (1 being the worst and 5 being the best)
(Ang): I would give this book a 4
(Em): This book gets a 4 from me as well. It takes a certain intellect and a certain dedication to be able to read this book. You need an open mind and a brain which can take things as they are and see them from many different angles. I certainly found that with this book. I really enjoyed reading it, and hope many more people do.
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