THE LIBRARIANS

Using simple, effective parabolic teaching, pastor-turned-novelist Imme’s latest release chronicles the adventures and spiritual edifications of four people.

The story begins in a fictional ancient village that has profited from its proximity to a river, which has brought generations of prosperity and happiness. When a young boy’s parents are found dead near its banks, however, his seemingly idyllic existence turns dark. The newly orphaned Mesoh is forced to live with his aunt and uncle and their two children. But even though he is embraced and loved, he can’t seem to come to grips with the deaths of his parents. After asking the river for answers, a book appears from the mysterious Creator that states that the wisdom within will lead Mesoh to his destiny. Mesoh, who has become the first “librarian,” leaves his village to spread the word. This begins a series of stories following the librarians who come after Mesoh and the trials and tribulations they must face from heretics, fraudulent spiritualists, and power-hungry tyrants. Their lives are irrevocably transformed by the divine book, which contains the seven pillars, including “Worship the Creator, not the creation” and “To love the Creator, you must also love one another,”that make up the foundation for human existence. While the narrative certainly could have been enriched by richer characterizations and worldbuilding, the real power here is in the savvy aspect of discipleship. Infused with subtle but profoundly moving imagery and symbolism—lambs, doves, various representations of light and darkness, etc.—the author adeptly uses metaphor to communicate his message. Carrying the book, for example, is likened to the transformation that occurs when beginning to live a theocentric existence: “It was as if it was testing my strength, not physical strength but inner strength. Then it felt light, so easy to hold that I could easily forget that I was carrying it.” This imagery and symbolism conveys the power of Christ’s love in a shrewdly nondenominational manner.

Simultaneously entertaining and enlightening, an allegorical blueprint for a faith-based life.