Monday, January 7, 2013

The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

genre: memoir

How is it that I have made it this far in life not having read this book?

I was always hearing about it but for some reason it just didn't sound interesting.

Shame on me.

As someone who has read so much about the personal lives of various people from all different countries during World War II, this is just one that should not be missed.

Corrie ten Boom is the middle-aged daughter of a watchmaker in Holland.  Her father is an important part of this story, since he is the man who taught her that every soul is important in the eyes of God and that when we let ourselves rest in God's hands, anything is possible.

So, when her beloved country is defeated and occupied, and hungry and afraid Jews from home and abroad show up at her house needing help, she begins helping. Starting small, Corrie is eventually a major player in the underground efforts in Holland to protect the innocent.

As so many stories go, there is unthinkable horror and tragedy for Corrie and yet, as NOT so many stories go, her story is really about faith and hope and forgiveness. It is a treatise to her knowledge that God is good.  That Christ can heal and save.  That in the darkest and most frightening circumstances, we can find peace.

And THAT is an amazing thing. She brought me to tears, multiple times, with the miracles she experienced in her life.  I was inspired, truly, and totally entertained by her swiftly moving narrative. 



note: if you're interested in the content of the books I read, please go to http://ratedreads.com

6 comments:

bermudaonion said...

I haven't read this one yet but have heard a lot about it. It sounds like one I need to make time for.

Amanda said...

I read this one way way back in middle school or junior high. I remember it so well. I should definitely do a re-read.

Ann Summerville said...

I haven't read the book but saw the film - amazing story. It's hard to believe that people had to live through such hard times in an occupied country.
Ann

Piper said...

Ugh! I remember reading this in Jr. High school. Most books I've read don't stay with me. This one did.

Marg said...

I read this book over and over again when I was a teenager! Loved it.

Let G. said...

One of my all-time favorite book, and I couldn't imagine what I would do if I'd be the one faced with the same circumstances. Thank you for sharing your inspiring review of Corrie Ten Boom's book. This book is inspiring and brave at the same time. The site http://booksforevangelism.org cites that "The Hiding Place is a book about how faith, compassion and love triumphs in the face of unspeakable evil. This book is recommended for everyone – nonbelievers and believer, specifically for people who have negative perspectives in life and those who are struggling to forgive other people." Heaps of books which can be used as a tool to evangelize to our friends can be found there, maybe you and your readers could check it out. A blessed day to you.

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