The Shape of Mercy

"Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." -- Luke 6:36-37

I don't usually have a problem with putting down a book - I did with this one. "The Shape of Mercy" by Susan Meissner is the compelling story of two women - one young, one old - whose lives are profoundly touched by an old diary written by a young girl during the Salem witch trials. Susan Meissner is an excellent storyteller - drawing you in from the very beginning with rich, intriguing characters; a mysterious plot; and threads of wisdom running throughout the book. After finishing "The Shape of Mercy" last evening, I felt the need for a quiet walk to mull over some of my long-held definitions of things like mercy, judgment and sacrifice. An excellent thought-provoking story . . .