Twelve & One-Half Keys

Do you know Edward Hays' writing already? If so, you really don't need a review. If not, this is an enchanting book of parables that is hard to put down. Hays' work is filled with metaphor and wonder! However, Hays cautions to read only one story at a time. I suggest savoring and rereading, because there is often more to be found in these parables. Hays' images flesh out concepts we yearn to understand. If you're looking to add another dimension to your theological journey, this one's a sure bet! Unqualified recommendation.

This book is a collection of some of the most wonderful, moving, and inspiring stories I have ever read, reflected and shared with others. If you are looking for a challenge to your spirituality, take a chance and buy this book. I think you will enjoy it and its contents.

This book fits perfectly with The Ethiopian Tattoo Shop, which I would reccomend reading first. As Hays puts it, his stories are "illuminating" rather than enlightening. Each story is beautifully written and readers can take away what they need from it. In order to understand the meaning behind each story, the reader doesn't need to be incredibly intelligent or well educated, but mature. While it is considered Christian literature, people of all religions can relate to the messages portrayed in these stories.

The only reason I give this book a "10" is that the scale doesn't go any higher. Ed Hays is a wonderful spiritual writer: he deals with ancient truths in new and refreshing ways, such that they are accessible to anyone who can read them. You don't need a doctorate in theology to understand and enjoy Hays' books, just the time to read them and think them over. The last of the short stories in this book, "The Tin Box," is well worth the price of the whole book all by itself. This is an excellent book for anyone interested in deepening his or her spiritual life, and especially for anyone with the time for quiet reflection (you'll need it, once you've read a few of the stories). A word to the wise, though: A little Hays goes a long way! This is a book to be savoured, a page at a time, not gobbled whole and put back on the shelf. Give it a try--I can promise you won't regret it!