A review on the back of this book describes Roy’s story like an onion being peeled. This is an apt description — page by page, more of the complex family dynamic is revealed. Like an onion, there are scenes and events that are enough to make your eyes water; however, it does carry a powerful message of love and acceptance. It is a riveting read, and I would recommend it with a disclaimer –this is not a Christian novel, and is not for the faint of heart.

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This book is a series of letters written by a mother about her son, who commits a high school massacre. The letters are written to the boy’s father, and through them we learn the history of the family and watch Kevin grow up. The conclusion of the book is extremely unexpected. I enjoyed the book because we learn, little by little, more about Kevin, and his relationship with his mother. The book shows what happens when hatred is haboured and how important forgiveness is.

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Under the Overpass is the story of two college-age guys who decide to put their faith to the test and live as homeless people on the streets. Though Mike’s accounts of street life are rather tame, compared to the build-up they’re given, he gives a unique perspective on the problem of homelessness. It also made me think of my attitude toward those I see on the street. This book is a fun, interesting read.

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Covering such heavy topics as consumerism, cloning, materialism and reincarnation doesn’t make for light bedtime reading, but it does make for an interesting story — especially when it is comprised of six seperate characters, each from a different place and point in time. Though they don’t know each other their decisions are able to influence the future of the others. Complicated, yes, but worth a read, and great for bookclub discussions.

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