Douglas K. (dougandbryanna) reviewed on 12/29/2009 + 3 more book reviews

One of the best books I have read in along time. This book was able to keep me entertained with a downhome folksy feel to it; but still provide an intellectual challenge. Plus, it offers 2 terrific father son relationship skeletons, both with the Ames and his young son and with Broughton and his middle aged son (Each with their own problem and neither really concluding). It might be even better a second time through, as I read the first half with the bias that Ames told the stories with, it would be refreshing to re-read now that I have the "rest of the story".
The spiritual aspect shouldn't be ignored, there was a tremendous leap of faith made by the preacher (Ames) in his acknowledgement of and acceptance of those who didn't fear sharing their questions and skepticism as much as he seemed to. It was refreshing to meet a preacher who wasn't preachy and didn't let the pre-ordained notion of God get in the way of his version of God and his providence.
The book touches so many chords: spiritual reconciliation, one's existential purpose, the selfish nature of man,and love on several different levels.
Not exactly an easy read, as you (should) find yourself stopping to ponder the old man's wisdom along the way.

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