It’s a delightful story of a boy who discovers the very real difference between people who know about God and those that know Him. It’s told in a humorous style through the mind and viewpoint of a twelve/thirteen year old, but it rang true to this 60 + year old. He is faced with temptation. gives in, and is plagued by guilt. Then, trying his hardest to rationalize the guilt away, struggles to make things right on his own terms. Sounds like a familiar plot, but what happens in the second half of the book is unique and special.
The book is not full of sanctimonious saints (except as objects of humor) but flawed sinners in need of grace—and lots and lots of funny stuff. Some of my favorite humorous moments are: a preacher said to have the wrong version of the Bible—one missing all the verses about compassion and kindness in it; close encounters with fiberglass insulation, and the whole snowmobile escapade. Then there are the moments that filled me with emotion—which can’t be described without giving away too much of the storyline.
The Christian character of his father is beautifully portrayed—his quiet strength, his unwavering honesty, his gratitude for the meager things he has, and his total reliance on the goodness and grace of God. What a role model!