To the Power of Five
After writing a book, one never knows what it really says to a reader until that first unsolicited review comes in from someone who has an objective stance -- from someone who has been critical in the past with good reason.
I'm going to keep the identity of this reviewer a secret - but let me assure you that it is someone you would respect if you heard the name.
So here it is -- the first critical review - and I am so relieved.
"I had the opportunity to read Impossible: Forgiveness to the Power of Five, and I can confidently say that Wilma Derksen is an extraordinary writer. This book is not only theologically sound, but it also offers an intellectually and spiritually rich perspective on one of the most challenging human experiences: forgiveness.
Wilma presents a fivefold model of forgiveness that is both complex and accessible. While I’m not certain that every detail of her model is a dominant theme in Scripture, I found nothing heretical about it —quite the opposite. Her framework is graceful, imaginative, and deeply rooted in gospel truth. What sets her apart is the generosity with which she holds space for disagreement, making this work approachable even for those who may not fully agree.
Few people have had to walk through the depth of suffering that Wilma has endured. She brings a level of experiential insight that is unparalleled—a kind of lived PhD in forgiveness. For readers who have mostly experienced life through a lens of blessings and minor conflicts, her story will challenge assumptions and broaden understanding. This is not forgiveness as a cliché or a slogan; this is forgiveness tested in fire.
Impossible will appeal especially to thoughtful, well-read, and university-educated readers, but anyone with a desire to grow in understanding will benefit. It’s a book that asks deep questions and provides rich, faithful responses.
Wilma’s life and story have already played a crucial role in the spiritual journeys of others, including Malcolm Gladwell. She continues to be a profound witness to the transformative power of faith and forgiveness."
Thank you - I can now begin my next book...
“Writing is a struggle against silence.” ― Carlos Fuentes
I'm going to keep the identity of this reviewer a secret - but let me assure you that it is someone you would respect if you heard the name.
So here it is -- the first critical review - and I am so relieved.
"I had the opportunity to read Impossible: Forgiveness to the Power of Five, and I can confidently say that Wilma Derksen is an extraordinary writer. This book is not only theologically sound, but it also offers an intellectually and spiritually rich perspective on one of the most challenging human experiences: forgiveness.
Wilma presents a fivefold model of forgiveness that is both complex and accessible. While I’m not certain that every detail of her model is a dominant theme in Scripture, I found nothing heretical about it —quite the opposite. Her framework is graceful, imaginative, and deeply rooted in gospel truth. What sets her apart is the generosity with which she holds space for disagreement, making this work approachable even for those who may not fully agree.
Few people have had to walk through the depth of suffering that Wilma has endured. She brings a level of experiential insight that is unparalleled—a kind of lived PhD in forgiveness. For readers who have mostly experienced life through a lens of blessings and minor conflicts, her story will challenge assumptions and broaden understanding. This is not forgiveness as a cliché or a slogan; this is forgiveness tested in fire.
Impossible will appeal especially to thoughtful, well-read, and university-educated readers, but anyone with a desire to grow in understanding will benefit. It’s a book that asks deep questions and provides rich, faithful responses.
Wilma’s life and story have already played a crucial role in the spiritual journeys of others, including Malcolm Gladwell. She continues to be a profound witness to the transformative power of faith and forgiveness."
Thank you - I can now begin my next book...
“Writing is a struggle against silence.” ― Carlos Fuentes
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