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September 26, 2006
What Paul Mikos Says About Taylor Field's Novel, SQUAT
Paul Mikos, a B&H Publishing Group backlist and special products editor, writes the following about SQUAT, a novel by Taylor Field that released to stores on September 1, 2006:
I picked up a galley at BEA and this is, hands down, the best B&H novel I've read, ever. The character development is so rich and authentic; I will never forget them. They are people we see on the street every day. There is tension, drama, conflict, suspense, and unrequited love. It is gritty without being offensive, and still very believable and real. It is a tense ride in the day of the life of the lead character, Squid, who is sympathetic, and damaged, and lovable, but utterly frustrating because of his irrational choices. I gained a new compassion, sympathy, and understanding for the fear and neurosis that grips his heart and dictates the choices that keep him on the street.
The book challenges the very heart of compassion with questions I've often asked myself. If I give this man a dollar, am I just enabling him to buy booze? Is my "help" keeping him on the street? The conclusion is that it is good and right to care for the poor, to help, to show compassion. Even if someone is damaged beyond anything we can "fix," God is still able to touch his heart.
There is a scene where Squid is so caught up in the tension of desperately needing a touch from God but is utterly determined to refuse it. When he finally yields, only enough to bow his head and allow someone to pray for him, you, the reader, are swept up in the wave of peace that washes over him in a way you will never forget. It is realistic and believable and edifying, without having to walk through a sinner's prayer in some contrived "Christian fiction" device to show people how they can be saved.
After reading it, I want to talk about it, which is a good sign that this is a great book for book clubs and reading groups. This is an excellent book for any church small group or cell group engaged in inner-city ministry or ministry to the homeless. It is not a book to give away to the homeless. It is a book that will encourage those with a heart for ministering to the poor. Anyone who has ever volunteered at Room in the Inn or their local mission has met these characters and will love this book. It will also appeal to those who enjoy great fiction, vivid imagery, unpacking symbolism, and the other pleasures of reading great writing.
http://www.SquatBook.com
Posted by bh_staff at September 26, 2006 5:07 PM