Currently in Books

MOTLEY STORIES PUSH AND PULL NOTIONS OF GOD

JOHN H. UNGER

Saints, Sinner & Angels. Danny Unrau. Winnipeg: Kindred Productions, 1997, 117 pages, paperback.

The format of the book is simple: 21 little stories (2 to 8 pages each, arranged in 5 thematic sections) introduce a motley collection of characters the author has met while traipsing through various parts of the world. Some are saintly and generous; others are flat-out crazy.

This book is set apart from other anthologies, however, by the reflections which follow each story. These push and pull at our notions about God, what He really wants (pronouns are masculine, though Unrau is careful to explain that God is not limited to gender), and what it means to be created and re-created in the image of God.

Unrau has a great nose for stories, and has great fun telling them, even when they come at his own expense. His language is sprinkled with delightful surprises, but stops well short of being quirky.

Saints, Sinners & Angels is probably best read in small doses, one story at a time, with ample time for reflection. Readers hooked on stories, however, may gobble them up in a single sitting.

And then go back, as I did, to read them once again.