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Christian Novel Outstrips Oprah Pick

Somewhat controversial book depicts God as a black woman named "Papa"

By Kevin Spak, Newser Staff

Posted Jun 24, 2008 9:16 AM CDT

(Newser) – Once rejected by multiple mainstream publishers, the slim Christian novel The Shack is flying off shelves, topping the New York Times trade paperback bestseller list. “Everybody that I know has bought at least 10 copies,” says one devotee. The Times looks at a blockbuster built around an unconventional depiction of God—as a jolly black woman named “Papa.”

Author William Young knew “Papa” might irk readers. “It was just a way of saying: ‘You know what? I don’t believe that God is Gandalf with an attitude,’” he says. And while conservative Christian leaders and bloggers have decried the book, the controversy hasn’t hurt sales. The publisher says the book has sold a million copies.

The cover of "The Shack" by William P. Young. (Windblown Media)

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Christian Novel Outstrips Oprah Pick

Somewhat controversial book depicts God as a black woman named "Papa"

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Book: John Paul II Whipped, Starved Himself

Pope self-flagellated in pursuit of 'Christian perfection,' says author

Hate Halloween? Celebrate 'Jesus Ween'

And no, it's not a holiday about 'Jesus's ween'

Crosses to Be Removed From San Diego Hillside

Officials received complaints about monuments on public property

Coming to Kentucky: Creationism Theme Park

Complete with 500-foot Noah's Ark replica

Faithful Flock to Jesus Theme Park

Visitors can pose for 'walking on water' photo

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Christian Novel Outstrips Oprah Pick

Somewhat controversial book depicts God as a black woman named "Papa"

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Christianity • religion • literature • book • best seller • Christian literature

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Book: John Paul II Whipped, Starved Himself

Pope self-flagellated in pursuit of 'Christian perfection,' says author

Hate Halloween? Celebrate 'Jesus Ween'

And no, it's not a holiday about 'Jesus's ween'

Crosses to Be Removed From San Diego Hillside

Officials received complaints about monuments on public property

Coming to Kentucky: Creationism Theme Park

Complete with 500-foot Noah's Ark replica

Faithful Flock to Jesus Theme Park

Visitors can pose for 'walking on water' photo

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

Tools

More News

What is Newser?