"Squat" Book Review
A book about 24 hours in the life of a homeless man in the Lower East Side.
I'm not normally one who reviews books, but I felt compelled to write about this one.
A quick read, I read it over the course of a weekend. It was interrupted reading, between my young sons having something to say and a brief trip to Philadelphia, I managed to keep up with it and not "lose" my place in the story.
The story takes place in the 80's when the L.E.S. is heavily populated by homeless people, and they are all taking up residence in squats.
This book was written by my pastor and friend Taylor Field. He knows this scenario well, as he's lived and worked in the Lower East Side since '85, serving with Graffiti Community Ministries and pastoring Graffiti Church. These ministries have made a conscious effort to continue to be involved with people who might not have anywhere else to turn to. Not only that, but all the author's proceeds will directly benefit these ministries.
But I digress-- I'm to write about the book...
I loved the book, and not just because it was written by someone I know. I loved the characters. I thought they were well developed, and I felt like with each chapter, I got to know a bit more about the nuances that made Squid tick; the fire within Unc that kept him playing Devil's Advocate. I leaned closer to see what Jason would say next, and was amused by Bonehead's kind nature. Then there's Rachel. I love the fact that the girl makes everyone smile; she's very passionate and pleasant.
What I like most, and what spoke to me most, was the author's ability to make me identify with all of these people. They may not be directly based on someone, but I could think of people just like these. People who I've met and talked to. More importantly, if I let myself, I can see bits and pieces of myself in all these characters. Ultimately, that is what made the book for me. It was that uncomfortable sense that I am made up of all sorts of quirks that these squatters possess. Most of these traits are not ones I am proud of. I also possess personality traits that some of the mission workers have, but sometimes, even the most well-meaning actions I take, can still hurt someone, or steer them away from Christ rather than toward Him.
I think that's one of the key things that sets this book apart from many others. It will stir you to realize that you are part "Squid" and part "Bonehead" without preaching at you. You will have to face parts of this within. So next time you come across someone like these characters, don't be so quick to judge them, or cast them aside.
'Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.' -- Plato
15 September 2006 | Comments (0) in thoughts