My Simple Faith (Sean Bastable)

Review by Waldo Malan
Reach Publishers

The book is subtitled “and why some tortoises drive Ferraris,” which I must admit piqued my curiosity. So I carefully opened the book early one morning in the office and then had to battle the rest of the day to get back to work! Yes, this is one of those “un-put-downable” books that come around once in a blue moon. I have decided to add this one to my selected list of re-reads and gifts. Why? Sean Bastable captures the essence of God through the telling of real, everyday experiences. His unique way of telling his story made me rethink, re-evaluate and re-discuss many things I’ve come to take for granted. God on His knees before me? Just that picture got me bawling (not quite the ‘manly’ thing to do, but by this stage in the day I couldn’t care less). Also, while at times I felt voyeuristic in experiencing life (again) through the eyes of another, Sean has the rare gift of drawing the reader into his world, making them experience every feeling, nuance, atmosphere, reasoning and conclusion. I for one also need speed down the road in a purring, growling Ferrari with Luigi in the seta next to me. Oh yes, I did finish reading the book in one sitting, and yes, you must get your own copy. Miss this one at your own loss. And just by the way, if you don’t know it already, God loves you.

To purchase your copy of My Simple Faith… and why some tortoises drive Ferraris for R119, including postage in South Africa, visit www.mysimplefaithbook.com, or email your details directly to contact @mysimplefaithbook.com When you place an order online 10% of the selling price will be donated to one of five charities listed on the website. In March, the first donation of R1,000 was made to Stella Pre-primary, a school for under-privileged children from the informal settlements in the Cato Manor area (Durban). My Simple Faith is also available at Adams bookshop (031 201 5123)