The Novel People Want to Give Away … Interview with the Author of #1 Best Seller, The Shack
by Diane
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It’s now Number 1 on the New York Times Best-Seller List–almost unheard of for what was essentially a self-published book.
Why is this novel so popular? Largely because it’s the kind of novel you feel compelled to give away. If you like it, that is–which obviously many, many people. do.
Not surprisingly, the book has also sparked a lot of controversy. Whenever a Christian becomes “high profile” in the culture, he or she is put under a microscope. If the high-profile figure is an author, the book is dissected for theological accuracy.
The Shack, by William P. (Paul) Young, is no exception.
The problem is, often the criticism misses the main point of the book.
In this case, we should not forget that this is a novel, not a theological treatise. It’s a story meant to be experienced.
The interesting this was, Paul did not even intend for it to be published. He wrote it for his children–an abundant gift from his heart.
Listen to “the story behind the story” in my interview with Paul Young, aired on my Books ‘n’ Such show, which was done right before the book hit its 1-year anniversary of being published. It was on the best-seller lists, but had not reached #1 when we did this interview.
I’d welcome your comments. If you read the book, did you “get it”? Did you enjoy it? Did anything bother you about it? Post your comments here, please!
(If you send an email to me–diane at abundant-gift.com–I’ll send you the story of what happened to me the day I interviewed Paul. You have to listen to the interview to “get it,” and it’s kind of personal, so I’m only going to share it with those who request it.)
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, on "the story behind the story" of Don Piper's amazing trip to heaven--and back.
Dianne: Thank you, thank you, thank you. Just listened to your interview with Paul Young. Riveting!
I admire the way you have developed your site. Graphically, ease of use and valuable content is all there in your gift to us – your fan base.
I know it isn’t your primary motivation but I do trust it becomes a financial blessing to you and your family.
Alva
[...] on AUG 24, 2008: My father sent me this link to a blog post and review of this book by Diane Eble. It includes an audio interview with the author William [...]