Reading about miracles

The Chicago Healer Paul H. Boge. Castle Quay Books, 2004.

Everyone loves miracle stories and here is a story about a miracle worker. Pharmaceutical executive Lucas Stephens finds himself imprisoned in China, where he discovers fragments of Scripture and the gift to heal.

We are treated to light reading in a plot that moves swiftly in the manner of a film script. An air of intrigue is fostered through mystical experiences and interest is piqued at the end of each chapter by the promise of more strange action.

Good and evil are clearly defined and the reader identifies easily with the good side since the characters are human and authentic. The narrator plays an unusual role; one could argue he actively participates in the action. Omniscient and upfront, he offers didactic and philosophical comments on the events and characters. His curious vernacular draws attention to itself.

Those familiar with the Bible will recognize the allusions and allegorical nature of the plot. Caesar’s wife appears in ghostly form, warning, “Don’t do him any harm,” reminding of Pilate’s wife. Names with biblical connotations include Lucas, the beloved physician; Caesar, evil tyrant; Tabitha, risen from the dead and full of good works; and Jake, worldly-wise trickster.

The theme of corporate greed and stress set as a battle for the spiritual and physical healing of people also has biblical antecedents. One story that comes to mind is the healing of the woman with the gift of divination, whose exploitive employers are indifferent to her welfare (Acts 16). Towards the end of the novel two trinities confront each other: one led by Caesar, the other by the great healer.

Important questions are raised through the characters. How/why is this gift given? Why are some people healed while others are left with their problems?

If you want a mysterious but often heartwarming reading experience, here it is. Unfortunately the book exhibits signs of hurried writing. Serious editing and proofreading would make for a great read.

Boge won the 2003 Best New Canadian Author award sponsored by Castle Quay Books and Essence Publishing at the Word Guild writers’ conference.

Agnes Dyck is an avid reader and member of McIvor Ave. MB Church, Winnipeg.