For years now, I've wanted to make the acquaintance of a well-renown gentleman who has stolen his way into the hearts of countless people. This man's name is G. K. Chesterton. And on Sunday evening, I discovered that our family had acquired the complete Father Brown adventures in my absence. There it was, sitting on the shelf. All I had to do was reach out and grab it, and then I too would be able to glean something from those pearls of wisdom which I had so often heard praised. So I did. Now I'm in love.
Chesterton writes his stories in an easy to read fashion. He sets up every scene with care, and leaves this reader in awe of his descriptive prowess. Then the mysteries themselves are works of art. Each one is fascinating and absorbing, and all have the added bonus of never being too long. But within these stories, which are sometimes lighthearted and sometimes disquieting, are woven profound truths. Those little pearls of wisdom are delicately placed - frequent enough to keep you constantly in awe of his insight and scarce enough to surprise you when you come upon one. "Oh, he's done it again!" is a thought which has frequently crossed my mind.
I have only one qualm, one complaint: that I won't possibly be able to finish the volume before I go back to school on Sunday!
