I can’t believe it took me so long to finally read this treasure of a book, written 20 years ago, and been often recommended by many of my fellow book enthusiasts. Having finally consumed it, I’m ready to start it again just in case I missed any of the life lessons that glow on nearly every page.
Marilynne Robinson’s Gilead is a quietly profound and beautifully written novel told through a series of letters from Reverend John Ames to his young son. The book is a meditation on faith, memory, and the passage of time, and it should be recommended reading for anyone considering a religious vocation or simply wondering how to put faith into action, while being aware of our own fragility and weaknesses. Set in the small town of Gilead, Iowa, in the 1950s, the story unfolds slowly and cannot be devoured in haste. Like a sumptuous meal, every mouthful is to be savoured.
Unlike most of my other reading suggestions this novel’s strength lies not in dramatic plot twists or devious characters, but rather in its blending of humour and pathos, finding a moral truth in the most ordinary of events. Reverend Ames, nearing the end of his life, and knowing that he won’t get to spend much time with his young son and with no material legacy to leave him, writes with honesty and tenderness, sharing his thoughts on love, grace, and the beauty of everyday moments. In his poor and meagre life, he offers rich reflections on theology and history, which are deeply personal, yet universally resonant.
The portrayal of forgiveness and reconciliation often felt like an examination of conscience. The novel doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does offer hope – a quiet, enduring hope rooted in faith and kindness.
It gave me cause to reflect on the wise mentors of my own life and how I wish I had taken greater notice of their experiences at the time. Robinson’s ability to capture the sacred in the ordinary is nothing short of remarkable, rewarded by a Pulitzer Prize and many other awards.
In a world often dominated by noise and haste, Gilead is a welcome invitation to slow down and listen. It’s a deeply spiritual and humane work that affirms the value of a life lived with integrity and love. A true literary gem and a perfect companion for the Advent journey.
Book: Gilead
Author: Marilynne Robinson
Published: November 4, 2004, by Farrar, Straus and Giroux
