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The Baggage Handler
In a similar vein to The Traveler’s Gift by Andy Andrews or Dinner with a Perfect Stranger by David Gregory, The Baggage Handler is a contemporary story that explores one What baggage are you carrying? Three people take a flight that will change their lives forever. Fresh off a run-in with his wife, harried businessman David disembarks the plane angry and impatient. Gillian thought she would be more excited about coming to her niece’s wedding, but she is just hoping to survive. Malcolm has gambled everything on this trip to start his fledgling artistic career. To him, failure means working in hardware in what his father calls “a real job.” After each picks up the wrong suitcase, they make their way to a mysterious baggage depot in a deserted part of the city. There they meet the Baggage Handler, who shows them there is more in their baggage than what they have packed. A simple baggage mix-up at the airport is more than an inconvenience when it forces three people to face the baggage they are unknowingly carrying around.
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First published January 1, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 334 reviews
March 6, 2019
We all have baggage. How we perceive it is what matters. This is such a thought provoking read. I read it in one sitting. It made me think of Andy Andrews books. This is a book I want everyone I know to read. I can't wait to read more from Rawlings.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
November 10, 2023
I loved the originality and creativity of the imagery and phrases at the beginning of this book. Some sentences were brilliant and had me pausing in appreciation. However, I was disappointed when, part way through the book, this originality disappeared and was replaced with repetition. I stumbled over 'cloudy blue eyes' and 'approaching wistfulness' too many times. Even the description of the baggage building was repetitious.
I thought the idea behind the story was very clever, but I love a book where I can become more involved with the characters. I thought the baggage handler lacked character - disappointing if he is supposed to represent God. Although he expressed a great deal of emotion, it felt contrived and unnatural. I connected more with David, Gillian and Michael, but point of view changed too often for me to become fully involved. I would have liked to see each of them connecting personally with the baggage handler.
My other question as I read, was whether the cliches used in the baggage handler's counselling were allowed to be attributed to him when I'm sure I've seen them, or very similar ideas, before. Only Miranda Kerr's quote was referenced.
In saying all this, I would still recommend this book to some other people who I believe would really enjoy or be challenged by the story and not mind any of the issues I have mentioned .
I thought the idea behind the story was very clever, but I love a book where I can become more involved with the characters. I thought the baggage handler lacked character - disappointing if he is supposed to represent God. Although he expressed a great deal of emotion, it felt contrived and unnatural. I connected more with David, Gillian and Michael, but point of view changed too often for me to become fully involved. I would have liked to see each of them connecting personally with the baggage handler.
My other question as I read, was whether the cliches used in the baggage handler's counselling were allowed to be attributed to him when I'm sure I've seen them, or very similar ideas, before. Only Miranda Kerr's quote was referenced.
In saying all this, I would still recommend this book to some other people who I believe would really enjoy or be challenged by the story and not mind any of the issues I have mentioned .
March 27, 2019
This story started out really good. I knew what The Baggage Handler did and why, but reading about the 3 main characters and the way they developed was interesting. My liking of this book just went downhill when the 3 went to claim their 'baggage'. The Baggage Handler actually acts a bit creepy, he falls on his knees in front of one character,and ends up crying for all of them.
But the one thing that really, really got to me was this one sentence "The Baggage Handler fixed a gaze on her (/him) with clouded blue eyes.e, a look approaching wistfulness". OK, the first time this sentence appeared, I did wonder about the "approaching wistfulness" part. The 2nd time I was thinking deju vue. The 3rd and 4th time I began to wonder about printing errors. But I don't think it was an error, I believe it is used intentionally, and I sure can't figure out why. It first appears in the 2nd half of the book. In one chapter it appears on 2 of 3 pages. The next chapter it pops up on the first page. I just wish I had a dollar for every time it appears. I could at least get a Coldstone ice cream--which I would enjoy much more that this book.
But the one thing that really, really got to me was this one sentence "The Baggage Handler fixed a gaze on her (/him) with clouded blue eyes.e, a look approaching wistfulness". OK, the first time this sentence appeared, I did wonder about the "approaching wistfulness" part. The 2nd time I was thinking deju vue. The 3rd and 4th time I began to wonder about printing errors. But I don't think it was an error, I believe it is used intentionally, and I sure can't figure out why. It first appears in the 2nd half of the book. In one chapter it appears on 2 of 3 pages. The next chapter it pops up on the first page. I just wish I had a dollar for every time it appears. I could at least get a Coldstone ice cream--which I would enjoy much more that this book.
March 20, 2019
Three travellers all accidentally pick up the wrong bag at the baggage carousel of an airport, but don't realise it until they get to their destinations. David is a stressed-out businessman who needs his financial reports for a critical presentation that will decide whether or not his branch closes. Gillian needs the clothes she's packed for five stressful days with her sister's family in the lead-up to her niece's wedding. Michael needs the running spikes he's packed so that he can impress the coach who could offer him a sporting scholarship to college.
They're all sent to a strange location to have their baggage sorted, but they soon discover it won't be that easy. The mysterious baggage handler is there to help them sort out their 'real' baggage. David can't forgive his wife who cheated on him six months earlier; Gillian keeps comparing herself and her life to her 'perfect' sister and always feels she doesn't measure up; and Michael really wants to be an artist rather than following his father's dream for him to become a star athlete. Each of them has to make a choice before they can leave the strange building they find themselves in. Do they work through their baggage or do they decide to continue carrying it around with them?
This debut novel from Australian author David Rawlings has a fascinating premise. We can all relate to it in one way or another because we all carry baggage. I was fascinated by the premise, but was wondering how Rawlings would pull it off in a full novel. He does a superb job. The issues that the characters have to grapple with are very real, and most readers would find something that resonates with them. I found myself relating to two of the characters in particular, so it was also thought-provoking on a personal level.
Rawlings has an engaging, easy-to-read writing style, with some great metaphors and imagery along the way. For example, 'If flattery was art, David was Picasso'; 'Huge cranes stood tall and unmoving, a still life of steel giraffes on a dusty savannah'; 'The memory rapped lightly on the lid it had nailed down on his self-esteem many years ago'; [The mirror] was a few feet away, but it would require her to travel over emotional quicksand covered with thorns and bracken,'; 'The words jostled in his mind to find the right order, but they stayed on the starting grid'.
My only slight hesitation was that I felt it dragged a little in the middle. I wanted everyone to hurry up with their baggage so I could see what happened next. Though I guess that's the point. It takes a while to work through heavy baggage. However, it didn't slow for long. I did feel engaged the whole way and wanted to keep reading. I also liked the way that not everything turned out perfectly. There's not a quick fix to deep issues, but it's important to start somewhere.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. It was original and gave a lot of food for thought. But be warned!! If you read this book, your own baggage might peek out and demand attention. Looking forward to seeing what this author comes up with next.
They're all sent to a strange location to have their baggage sorted, but they soon discover it won't be that easy. The mysterious baggage handler is there to help them sort out their 'real' baggage. David can't forgive his wife who cheated on him six months earlier; Gillian keeps comparing herself and her life to her 'perfect' sister and always feels she doesn't measure up; and Michael really wants to be an artist rather than following his father's dream for him to become a star athlete. Each of them has to make a choice before they can leave the strange building they find themselves in. Do they work through their baggage or do they decide to continue carrying it around with them?
This debut novel from Australian author David Rawlings has a fascinating premise. We can all relate to it in one way or another because we all carry baggage. I was fascinated by the premise, but was wondering how Rawlings would pull it off in a full novel. He does a superb job. The issues that the characters have to grapple with are very real, and most readers would find something that resonates with them. I found myself relating to two of the characters in particular, so it was also thought-provoking on a personal level.
Rawlings has an engaging, easy-to-read writing style, with some great metaphors and imagery along the way. For example, 'If flattery was art, David was Picasso'; 'Huge cranes stood tall and unmoving, a still life of steel giraffes on a dusty savannah'; 'The memory rapped lightly on the lid it had nailed down on his self-esteem many years ago'; [The mirror] was a few feet away, but it would require her to travel over emotional quicksand covered with thorns and bracken,'; 'The words jostled in his mind to find the right order, but they stayed on the starting grid'.
My only slight hesitation was that I felt it dragged a little in the middle. I wanted everyone to hurry up with their baggage so I could see what happened next. Though I guess that's the point. It takes a while to work through heavy baggage. However, it didn't slow for long. I did feel engaged the whole way and wanted to keep reading. I also liked the way that not everything turned out perfectly. There's not a quick fix to deep issues, but it's important to start somewhere.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. It was original and gave a lot of food for thought. But be warned!! If you read this book, your own baggage might peek out and demand attention. Looking forward to seeing what this author comes up with next.
February 23, 2019
With an easily accessible voice and relatable characters, The Baggage Handler is fiction to enjoy while ruminating with a cup of coffee. Rawlings inspires us to inhabit the best and worst of nature as represented in characters who bring this soft parable to life with surprising dimension and depth.
Less divisive than The Shack and with a sterner faith foundation than Mitch Albom, The Baggage Handler has the light philosophical touch of Alexander McCall Smith, the intense messaging of Katie Ganshert and the symbol of thematic resonance of James L. Rubart.
The thinking person's fictional experience and definitely one to keep on the list of "What to Buy for People You Don't Know What to Buy for"
( seriously ---built in Christmas gift here).
An exciting and needed new voice in inspirational fiction.
Less divisive than The Shack and with a sterner faith foundation than Mitch Albom, The Baggage Handler has the light philosophical touch of Alexander McCall Smith, the intense messaging of Katie Ganshert and the symbol of thematic resonance of James L. Rubart.
The thinking person's fictional experience and definitely one to keep on the list of "What to Buy for People You Don't Know What to Buy for"
( seriously ---built in Christmas gift here).
An exciting and needed new voice in inspirational fiction.
February 9, 2019
The Baggage Handler started well, but it didn't deliver.
David Rawlings is good at describing inner turmoil, and I was engaged as each character's situation was revealed. After a luggage mix-up, the three characters travel to Baggage Handling, where each enters a waiting room tailored to his/her personal weakness. Each is asked to deal with unwanted baggage and confront a true image of himself/herself in order to be released from the Twilight Zone-type center.
That's when the story lost momentum. The Baggage Handler had a quick-fix counseling session with each character full of trite advice. Years of broken thinking and broken relationships were supposed to be undone with "let it go," "respect yourself," "you're good enough as you are."
I think Rawlings did a good job of describing "baggage" many of us carry. But the resolutions were too simple for my taste. There was a supernatural quality to the Baggage Handler and the place. Perhaps that was supposed to represent a supernatural intervention, like God, that would be necessary to reach hard and broken hearts. It wasn't satisfying to me, however.
I was given access to an advance copy of this book for my honest review through #netgalley
David Rawlings is good at describing inner turmoil, and I was engaged as each character's situation was revealed. After a luggage mix-up, the three characters travel to Baggage Handling, where each enters a waiting room tailored to his/her personal weakness. Each is asked to deal with unwanted baggage and confront a true image of himself/herself in order to be released from the Twilight Zone-type center.
That's when the story lost momentum. The Baggage Handler had a quick-fix counseling session with each character full of trite advice. Years of broken thinking and broken relationships were supposed to be undone with "let it go," "respect yourself," "you're good enough as you are."
I think Rawlings did a good job of describing "baggage" many of us carry. But the resolutions were too simple for my taste. There was a supernatural quality to the Baggage Handler and the place. Perhaps that was supposed to represent a supernatural intervention, like God, that would be necessary to reach hard and broken hearts. It wasn't satisfying to me, however.
I was given access to an advance copy of this book for my honest review through #netgalley
March 31, 2019
Easy-to-read inspirational story about three very different people who accidentally pick up the wrong baggage at the airport. It’s the kind of fiction anyone can read and the message is fairly simple - are you carrying baggage (yours or other people’s) that negativity impacts your future?
March 3, 2019
What a wonderful reading experience! Reminiscent of James L. Rubart's books, The Baggage Handler is very insightful and contemplative, but also quite entertaining.
It addresses the question: how do we handle the baggage we carry around in our lives? Through three different characters' eyes, the reader gets to see how the things we choose to hang onto and lug around in our lives--whether intentionally or unintentionally--affects us and what the consequences might be of letting it go and continuing to hang on.
This is a fast-paced read, but it begs to be discussed and thought about long after completion. I look forward to additional books by this talented writer in the future.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
It addresses the question: how do we handle the baggage we carry around in our lives? Through three different characters' eyes, the reader gets to see how the things we choose to hang onto and lug around in our lives--whether intentionally or unintentionally--affects us and what the consequences might be of letting it go and continuing to hang on.
This is a fast-paced read, but it begs to be discussed and thought about long after completion. I look forward to additional books by this talented writer in the future.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
March 20, 2019
I enjoyed reading The Baggage Handler and read it quickly, within twenty-four hours, because I couldn't put the book down. We're introduced to three characters who are struggling with major issues that are negatively impacting their lives.
I travel regularly for work, and I usually travel light with carry on luggage to avoid being delayed at the baggage carousels. I could relate to the characters at the start of the story, and the time pressures they were experiencing during their journey.
The story was fun and easy to read. I loved the powerful allegory message underpinning the story. The Baggage Handler is a character you'll want to meet. I recommend this book to readers who are open to being challenged on how to deal with the emotional baggage in their life.
I travel regularly for work, and I usually travel light with carry on luggage to avoid being delayed at the baggage carousels. I could relate to the characters at the start of the story, and the time pressures they were experiencing during their journey.
The story was fun and easy to read. I loved the powerful allegory message underpinning the story. The Baggage Handler is a character you'll want to meet. I recommend this book to readers who are open to being challenged on how to deal with the emotional baggage in their life.
December 7, 2019
3.5 stars
"Who are you? . . . I'm the Baggage Handler. Now let me show you the way out."
Curiously, three different travellers find themselves holding the wrong suitcases, stuck in situations that have receding deadlines, and forced to wade through unneccesary protocols. When finally faced with the Baggage Handler and his nearly imperceptible urgency, they find that not only have the contents of their suitcases become weighted down, but that they must make a decision about what to do with the added weight.
What a perceptive little story! The author cleverly compares life's self imposed burdens to items in a piece of luggage that cause its carriers to stumble and often fall, under the weight of misconception, unforgiveness, and lack of confidence.
" . . .you don't need to carry this baggage. You have a choice."
"Who are you? . . . I'm the Baggage Handler. Now let me show you the way out."
Curiously, three different travellers find themselves holding the wrong suitcases, stuck in situations that have receding deadlines, and forced to wade through unneccesary protocols. When finally faced with the Baggage Handler and his nearly imperceptible urgency, they find that not only have the contents of their suitcases become weighted down, but that they must make a decision about what to do with the added weight.
What a perceptive little story! The author cleverly compares life's self imposed burdens to items in a piece of luggage that cause its carriers to stumble and often fall, under the weight of misconception, unforgiveness, and lack of confidence.
" . . .you don't need to carry this baggage. You have a choice."
April 5, 2019
Three people from different walks of life, all dealing with difficult situations, pick up the wrong suitcase at the airport. When they call baggage services they are directed to a mysterious building with long empty hallways. There they are met by a figure who calls himself The Baggage Handler. He knows things about them. Things he shouldn't know. He wants to help them deal with their baggage, but will each of them be willing to listen?
This was a great character-driven exploration of some of the things that hold us back in life. It is thought-provoking as well as entertaining. Rawlings' characters drew me in and made me feel for them.
The conclusion of the book leaves the reader with a variety of emotions. A great story for readers who like to delve into characters and themes.
This was a great character-driven exploration of some of the things that hold us back in life. It is thought-provoking as well as entertaining. Rawlings' characters drew me in and made me feel for them.
The conclusion of the book leaves the reader with a variety of emotions. A great story for readers who like to delve into characters and themes.
April 12, 2019
The Baggage Handler, a novel, by David Rawlings is excellently written, complex and thought provoking.
It's about everyday life and how we deal with it and the 'key' to managing your life ~ it may be easier than you think.
The Baggage Handler is both psychological, fact and a fictional story.
This makes the 'perfect' gift for someone.
It's beautifully presented.
I will treasure this always.
* I would highly recommend this novel to all my family and friends
It's about everyday life and how we deal with it and the 'key' to managing your life ~ it may be easier than you think.
The Baggage Handler is both psychological, fact and a fictional story.
This makes the 'perfect' gift for someone.
It's beautifully presented.
I will treasure this always.
* I would highly recommend this novel to all my family and friends
January 14, 2019
The Baggage Handler is a wonderful book that I couldn’t put down. I love a book that feels like you are watching the best movie you have ever watched and you are lost in the world the author is creating before your eyes. Weirdly, I see elements of Stephen King in David’s writings, minus the scary stuff. An excellent read that I would strongly recommend.
March 30, 2019
You’ve heard the saying a picture is worth a thousand words? Well, with David Rawlings, it takes just a small percentage of those words to paint an entire picture: “The kitchen was a spotless tribute to reflection and polish. Even the cat’s litter box was immaculate, raked like a Japanese garden.” That combination of crisp, concise storytelling and vivid description makes this the kind of story that even non-readers will want to pick up.
The other really appealing thing about this story is its apparent simplicity. Less than twelve hours pass between the first page and the last and you can literally sum up the plot as “Three people pick up the wrong suitcases at the airport and go to the baggage centre to sort it out.” Even taking into account the obvious metaphor in the words “sort it out”, it doesn’t seem like much of a plot to work with. And then you’ve got the challenge of character development. How much can you really do with a character in less than twelve hours?
None of this seems to have daunted David Rawlings, because you do get to know these characters—as much as is necessary to the story—almost without realising it. Backstory is seamlessly woven into the narrative, and the characters’ emotional states and attitudes come through loud and clear in their actions and their different narrative voices. And of course the whole point of this story is that we’re meeting these characters at a turning point in their lives, when their eyes are opened to the baggage that’s weighing them down and they’re presented with the choice to keep dragging it behind them or give it to the Baggage Handler. And giving it to the Baggage Handler is not necessarily as easy as you would think.
This book is testament to the truth that stories don’t have to be complicated to be either engaging or thought-provoking. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next offering from this author.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The other really appealing thing about this story is its apparent simplicity. Less than twelve hours pass between the first page and the last and you can literally sum up the plot as “Three people pick up the wrong suitcases at the airport and go to the baggage centre to sort it out.” Even taking into account the obvious metaphor in the words “sort it out”, it doesn’t seem like much of a plot to work with. And then you’ve got the challenge of character development. How much can you really do with a character in less than twelve hours?
None of this seems to have daunted David Rawlings, because you do get to know these characters—as much as is necessary to the story—almost without realising it. Backstory is seamlessly woven into the narrative, and the characters’ emotional states and attitudes come through loud and clear in their actions and their different narrative voices. And of course the whole point of this story is that we’re meeting these characters at a turning point in their lives, when their eyes are opened to the baggage that’s weighing them down and they’re presented with the choice to keep dragging it behind them or give it to the Baggage Handler. And giving it to the Baggage Handler is not necessarily as easy as you would think.
This book is testament to the truth that stories don’t have to be complicated to be either engaging or thought-provoking. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next offering from this author.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 23, 2019
Pull my heartstrings! I connected with all three stories, for myself, and what I know loved ones are walking through.
Dinner with a Perfect Stranger was good, but this is better! Just as direct, but in a completely different way.
I found myself looking in a mirror as I read, with more clarity and perspective. This may be because I have been deliberately dealing with my emotional baggage a little at a time over the last year. It hasn't been easy, but as a journey, I am making progress!
📌 I received an advance copy of the book from @NetGalley. This has no effect on my review, all thoughts are my own.
Dinner with a Perfect Stranger was good, but this is better! Just as direct, but in a completely different way.
I found myself looking in a mirror as I read, with more clarity and perspective. This may be because I have been deliberately dealing with my emotional baggage a little at a time over the last year. It hasn't been easy, but as a journey, I am making progress!
📌 I received an advance copy of the book from @NetGalley. This has no effect on my review, all thoughts are my own.
April 1, 2019
The Baggage Handler prompts us to explore what weighs us down. He offers for us to open our own baggage that we lug around, and think about the possibility of leaving it behind us. What David, Gillian and Michael do when their luggage has been mixed up, is an emotional nightmare that they each must face before they are free to walk away. The time has come for them to open up and see what holds them back, what stops them from going forward.
A quote I read some time ago reminds me of the invitation of The Baggage Handler to let things go. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart; and you will find rest. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11: 28 -30
This book is a beautiful reminder of those words, that it's never too late to hand over the stuff we just don't need.
June 14, 2020
„Eine Erzählung über die Kunst, unbeschwert zu leben“ – David Rawlings verpackt in diesem Buch auf knapp 170 Seiten drei Einzelschicksale und gibt ihnen durch den Gepäckträger die Möglichkeit ihre jeweilige Situation neu zu bewerten.
Gillian ist dreifache Mutter und es graut ihr vor dem Besuch bei ihrer perfekten Schwester Becky. David ist ein ehrgeiziger Geschäftsmann – er fürchtet den Verlust seines Jobs und seiner Frau. Micheal ist talentiert und erhofft sich ein Sportstipendium, obwohl sein Herz für die Kunst schlägt. Diese drei begegnen sich nicht bewusst, aber sie befinden sich alle auf demselben Flughafen. Es gibt eine Verwechslung und die Koffer werden vertauscht. Außerdem sind die Koffer vollgepackter, als ihre Besitzer glauben. Auf dem Weg, die Sache wieder grade zu biegen, werden Gillian, David und Michael vor ihre persönlichen Herausforderungen gestellt. Ein freundlicher, junger Mann – der Gepäckträger – hilft und hält ihnen den Spiegel vor.
Geschichten haben das Potenzial Wissen und Verständnis zu bringen, ohne dabei persönlich zu werden. Das ist das Wunderbare an diesem Buch. Durch die Situationen von Gillian, David und Michael hat der Lesende die Möglichkeit, seine eigene Situation auf sanfte Weise zu hinterfragen und eigene Herausforderungen in seinem Leben zu erkennen. Das Buch ist einfach geschrieben und die Handlung wird in moderatem Tempo erzählt. Abwechselnd begleitet der Lesende einen der drei Charaktere durch die Erlebnisse des Tages. In Häppchen wird so das Hauptproblem der jeweiligen Person dargestellt, mit dem sie letztendlich konfrontiert wird.
Ich würde sagen, das Buch ist auch für wenig Lesende gut bekömmlich, da es sich fix durchlesen lässt und ganz unkompliziert auch nebenbei geschmökert werden kann. Mich hat es an Werke wie „Das Café am Rande der Welt“ oder „Der Alchimist“ erinnert. Weiterhin positiv anzumerken ist, dass David Rawlings am Ende des Buchs „FRAGEN ZUM WEITERDENKEN“ formuliert hat. Diese beziehen sich auf die Kapitel im Buch und können einzeln oder im Gespräch mit anderen erörtert und interpretiert werden und regen zu spannenden Diskussionen an. Ich bin begeistert und möchte es definitiv Anderen ausleihen, um möglichst vielen Menschen die Möglichkeit zu geben, ihr eigenes Gepäck zu erkennen, um es auszupacken und danach erleichterter zu sein.
Beim Lesen markierte ich mir einigen Zitate, die ich ausschlaggebend für das Buch fand.
SPOILER
Zitate:
Der Gepäckträger seufzte traurig. „Weil es schwer ist, sich um sein Gepäck zu kümmern. Es kostet Kraft und manchmal muss man seinen Stolz hinunterschlucken. Und manche Leute haben sich so daran gewöhnt, dass sie davon überzeugt sind, nicht mehr ohne es leben zu können. Andere sagen, sie brauchen Zeit, um sich darum zu kümmern, aber diese Zeit kommt nie. Der häufigste Grund ist allerdings, dass es einfacher erscheint, das Gepäck weiter mit sich herumzuschleppen, trotz der Last.“
„Ich habe so viel gelesen, gesehen, gehört, gefühlt, erlebt. Ich habe schon mit so vielen Menschen in ihrer Situation gesprochen und sie alle haben eines gemeinsam: Sie klammern sich an die Verbitterung, weil sie glauben, damit die andere Person zu bestrafen. Aber schlussendlich sind sie derjenige, der den Preis bezahlt.“
David ließ den Kopf hängen.
Michael starrte auf den Fußboden.
„Wenn Dads Gepäck Raum in meinem Leben einnimmt, warum trage ich es dann?“
„Das ist eine sehr gute Frage, die nur schwer zu beantworten ist. Zum Teil liegt es daran, dass du gar nicht gemerkt hast, wie es dir zugeschoben worden ist. Weißt du, das Problem ist nicht, dass du Gepäck hast. Jeder von uns hat welches. Das Problem ist, dass es dich daran hindert voranzukommen. Wenn sich dir eine Chance bietet, hast du nie die Möglichkeit, schnell zu reagieren, weil du dieses Gewicht mitschleifst.“
Dem Gepäckträger lief eine Träne über die Wange. „Du bist es sehr wohl wert. Es hat seinen Grund, dass du auf dieser Welt bist! Deine spezielle Kombination aus Talenten, Fähigkeiten und persönlichen Eigenschaften ist kein Zufall. Die ständigen Vergleiche gehen allesamt an dem vorbei, was dich ausmacht. Du solltest nicht jemand anders sein. Du bist Gillian.“ Er stand auf. „Verstehst du das nicht? Das ist dein Problem! Weil du so schlecht von dir denkst, siehst du die anderen als besser an., als sie sind. Damit rechtfertigst du deine Sicht auf sie.“ Er sah sie eindringlich an. „Dabei ist sie falsch“, fügte er leise hinzu.
„Aber Becky ist doch sowas wie Superwoman …“
„Sie will, dass du so denkst, aber ich habe schon so viele Leute gesehen, die den Umhang nicht deshalb tragen, weil sie damit fliegen können, sondern weil sie damit wie ein Held aussehen.“
Michael winkte ab. „Das ist doch Erbsenzählerei.“
Der Gepäckträger lehnte sich vor, stützte sich auf den Ellenbogen ab und legte die Fingerspitzen aneinander. „Oh nein, es ist weit mehr. Das ist genau der Punkt, bei dem es immer zu Missverständnissen kommt. Wenn du mir dein Gepäck gibst, dann ist das ein willentlicher Akt. Du reichst es mir und dann kommt der wichtigste Teil: Du musst es loslassen.“
Gillian ist dreifache Mutter und es graut ihr vor dem Besuch bei ihrer perfekten Schwester Becky. David ist ein ehrgeiziger Geschäftsmann – er fürchtet den Verlust seines Jobs und seiner Frau. Micheal ist talentiert und erhofft sich ein Sportstipendium, obwohl sein Herz für die Kunst schlägt. Diese drei begegnen sich nicht bewusst, aber sie befinden sich alle auf demselben Flughafen. Es gibt eine Verwechslung und die Koffer werden vertauscht. Außerdem sind die Koffer vollgepackter, als ihre Besitzer glauben. Auf dem Weg, die Sache wieder grade zu biegen, werden Gillian, David und Michael vor ihre persönlichen Herausforderungen gestellt. Ein freundlicher, junger Mann – der Gepäckträger – hilft und hält ihnen den Spiegel vor.
Geschichten haben das Potenzial Wissen und Verständnis zu bringen, ohne dabei persönlich zu werden. Das ist das Wunderbare an diesem Buch. Durch die Situationen von Gillian, David und Michael hat der Lesende die Möglichkeit, seine eigene Situation auf sanfte Weise zu hinterfragen und eigene Herausforderungen in seinem Leben zu erkennen. Das Buch ist einfach geschrieben und die Handlung wird in moderatem Tempo erzählt. Abwechselnd begleitet der Lesende einen der drei Charaktere durch die Erlebnisse des Tages. In Häppchen wird so das Hauptproblem der jeweiligen Person dargestellt, mit dem sie letztendlich konfrontiert wird.
Ich würde sagen, das Buch ist auch für wenig Lesende gut bekömmlich, da es sich fix durchlesen lässt und ganz unkompliziert auch nebenbei geschmökert werden kann. Mich hat es an Werke wie „Das Café am Rande der Welt“ oder „Der Alchimist“ erinnert. Weiterhin positiv anzumerken ist, dass David Rawlings am Ende des Buchs „FRAGEN ZUM WEITERDENKEN“ formuliert hat. Diese beziehen sich auf die Kapitel im Buch und können einzeln oder im Gespräch mit anderen erörtert und interpretiert werden und regen zu spannenden Diskussionen an. Ich bin begeistert und möchte es definitiv Anderen ausleihen, um möglichst vielen Menschen die Möglichkeit zu geben, ihr eigenes Gepäck zu erkennen, um es auszupacken und danach erleichterter zu sein.
Beim Lesen markierte ich mir einigen Zitate, die ich ausschlaggebend für das Buch fand.
SPOILER
Zitate:
Der Gepäckträger seufzte traurig. „Weil es schwer ist, sich um sein Gepäck zu kümmern. Es kostet Kraft und manchmal muss man seinen Stolz hinunterschlucken. Und manche Leute haben sich so daran gewöhnt, dass sie davon überzeugt sind, nicht mehr ohne es leben zu können. Andere sagen, sie brauchen Zeit, um sich darum zu kümmern, aber diese Zeit kommt nie. Der häufigste Grund ist allerdings, dass es einfacher erscheint, das Gepäck weiter mit sich herumzuschleppen, trotz der Last.“
„Ich habe so viel gelesen, gesehen, gehört, gefühlt, erlebt. Ich habe schon mit so vielen Menschen in ihrer Situation gesprochen und sie alle haben eines gemeinsam: Sie klammern sich an die Verbitterung, weil sie glauben, damit die andere Person zu bestrafen. Aber schlussendlich sind sie derjenige, der den Preis bezahlt.“
David ließ den Kopf hängen.
Michael starrte auf den Fußboden.
„Wenn Dads Gepäck Raum in meinem Leben einnimmt, warum trage ich es dann?“
„Das ist eine sehr gute Frage, die nur schwer zu beantworten ist. Zum Teil liegt es daran, dass du gar nicht gemerkt hast, wie es dir zugeschoben worden ist. Weißt du, das Problem ist nicht, dass du Gepäck hast. Jeder von uns hat welches. Das Problem ist, dass es dich daran hindert voranzukommen. Wenn sich dir eine Chance bietet, hast du nie die Möglichkeit, schnell zu reagieren, weil du dieses Gewicht mitschleifst.“
Dem Gepäckträger lief eine Träne über die Wange. „Du bist es sehr wohl wert. Es hat seinen Grund, dass du auf dieser Welt bist! Deine spezielle Kombination aus Talenten, Fähigkeiten und persönlichen Eigenschaften ist kein Zufall. Die ständigen Vergleiche gehen allesamt an dem vorbei, was dich ausmacht. Du solltest nicht jemand anders sein. Du bist Gillian.“ Er stand auf. „Verstehst du das nicht? Das ist dein Problem! Weil du so schlecht von dir denkst, siehst du die anderen als besser an., als sie sind. Damit rechtfertigst du deine Sicht auf sie.“ Er sah sie eindringlich an. „Dabei ist sie falsch“, fügte er leise hinzu.
„Aber Becky ist doch sowas wie Superwoman …“
„Sie will, dass du so denkst, aber ich habe schon so viele Leute gesehen, die den Umhang nicht deshalb tragen, weil sie damit fliegen können, sondern weil sie damit wie ein Held aussehen.“
Michael winkte ab. „Das ist doch Erbsenzählerei.“
Der Gepäckträger lehnte sich vor, stützte sich auf den Ellenbogen ab und legte die Fingerspitzen aneinander. „Oh nein, es ist weit mehr. Das ist genau der Punkt, bei dem es immer zu Missverständnissen kommt. Wenn du mir dein Gepäck gibst, dann ist das ein willentlicher Akt. Du reichst es mir und dann kommt der wichtigste Teil: Du musst es loslassen.“
August 3, 2019
You know those office gift exchanges at Christmas? Where you're not quite sure what to get someone you don't know very well? This book would be the perfect gift. The whimsical story goes deep in a way that speaks gently to Christians and non-Christians alike. We all have baggage that needs to be handled :)
Recommended for anyone who loves a good story. This is quick, entertaining read that knocks down walls and builds bridges.
Recommended for anyone who loves a good story. This is quick, entertaining read that knocks down walls and builds bridges.
March 17, 2019
“I am the Baggage Handler. Do you need some help with your baggage?” three troubled individuals are asked in David Rawlings’s novel, The Baggage Handler.
~ What ~
This two-hundred-and-forty-page small hardbound targets those interested in an allegory about dealing with one’s baggage – the kind that you carry around with you unknowingly as it alters, changes, and disrupts your life. Using the slang word heck and darn, topics of adultery may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes a note from the author, discussion questions, acknowledgments, and advertisements.
In this current day allegory, three different characters’ lives are challenged when their similar-looking luggage is erroneously switched at the airport. While young Michael wants to break away from his father’s proposed footsteps, Gillian wishes for a perfect life like her sister’s, and David’s deep-rooted anger obstructs forgiveness, they all encounter the Baggage Handler, the one person who can help them eliminate their unwanted, unneeded, and damaging baggage. As each deal with their issues differently, they must make the choice of getting rid of their burdens or continue to carry their emotional load.
~ Why ~
Since we all carry some sort of baggage with us throughout our lives, this is an eye-opening book that may stop one in their tracks to circumspectly examine their own lives and consider what baggage they carry. I enjoyed the diversity of the three characters and how they approached or refuted their flawed personalities. The common problems of pleasing others instead of oneself, envy by comparison, and hurtful bitterness show how pride plays an important part in holding on to the past. The story is well-written and gripping.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like modern day parables with a supernatural twist of a being who can help lighten life’s load will not appreciate this book. Without mentioning God or Jesus, the reader is left to guess the role of the Baggage Handler is only to help a person get rid of their baggage and not be the only One who can save them. There is no eternal plan of salvation, only choices offered to rid themselves of not standing up for who they are, hating themselves, or holding grudges.
~ Wish ~
I did indeed enjoy this read, but my conscience knawed at its lack of mentioning Jesus is the only Way, Truth, Life, and the propitiation for sin and our ever-present faults. How much better the book would have been if it included praying to the Almighty for forgiveness, realizing God’s incredible love for us, and accepting others as He has us.
~ Want ~
If you are dealing with baggage of your own such as self-doubt, self-loathing, and self-pity, this tale of learning respect, finding inner beauty, and letting go is heartwarming, but it may not explain the True Baggage Handler who died on the cross for you.
Thanks to Book Look Bloggers for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
~ What ~
This two-hundred-and-forty-page small hardbound targets those interested in an allegory about dealing with one’s baggage – the kind that you carry around with you unknowingly as it alters, changes, and disrupts your life. Using the slang word heck and darn, topics of adultery may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes a note from the author, discussion questions, acknowledgments, and advertisements.
In this current day allegory, three different characters’ lives are challenged when their similar-looking luggage is erroneously switched at the airport. While young Michael wants to break away from his father’s proposed footsteps, Gillian wishes for a perfect life like her sister’s, and David’s deep-rooted anger obstructs forgiveness, they all encounter the Baggage Handler, the one person who can help them eliminate their unwanted, unneeded, and damaging baggage. As each deal with their issues differently, they must make the choice of getting rid of their burdens or continue to carry their emotional load.
~ Why ~
Since we all carry some sort of baggage with us throughout our lives, this is an eye-opening book that may stop one in their tracks to circumspectly examine their own lives and consider what baggage they carry. I enjoyed the diversity of the three characters and how they approached or refuted their flawed personalities. The common problems of pleasing others instead of oneself, envy by comparison, and hurtful bitterness show how pride plays an important part in holding on to the past. The story is well-written and gripping.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like modern day parables with a supernatural twist of a being who can help lighten life’s load will not appreciate this book. Without mentioning God or Jesus, the reader is left to guess the role of the Baggage Handler is only to help a person get rid of their baggage and not be the only One who can save them. There is no eternal plan of salvation, only choices offered to rid themselves of not standing up for who they are, hating themselves, or holding grudges.
~ Wish ~
I did indeed enjoy this read, but my conscience knawed at its lack of mentioning Jesus is the only Way, Truth, Life, and the propitiation for sin and our ever-present faults. How much better the book would have been if it included praying to the Almighty for forgiveness, realizing God’s incredible love for us, and accepting others as He has us.
~ Want ~
If you are dealing with baggage of your own such as self-doubt, self-loathing, and self-pity, this tale of learning respect, finding inner beauty, and letting go is heartwarming, but it may not explain the True Baggage Handler who died on the cross for you.
Thanks to Book Look Bloggers for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
April 2, 2019
Coming into this book, I had really high expectations. Whenever I’m about to read a book published by Thomas Nelson, I know I’m in for a real treat because all the Thomas Nelson books I’ve read before I have rated 4.5+ stars.
However, I was… quite disappointed by The Baggage Handler, and I actually ended up DNFing it. I have never been one for multiple POVs (points of view), but I thought I’d try this book out anyway. From the start, the personalities of the different characters confused me (not to mention that ebook I was given wasn’t formatted the best which contributed to the confusion) and I spent quite a lot of the beginning forcing myself to stop reading, switch POVs, and continue reading (which makes for a rather unpleasant reading experience XD).
I also didn’t really enjoy the writing style. It was a bit too laidback and slow-paced for me. After reading up to around the midpoint of the book, I decided to stop because I wasn’t invested in the characters at all and just wasn’t enjoying the book.
Overall, I didn’t love it! However, I do know that a lot of people do enjoy multiple POVs and a slower paced writing style, so I would go for it if you’re one of those people, and I think you’d enjoy! It just wasn’t for me. 2 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
However, I was… quite disappointed by The Baggage Handler, and I actually ended up DNFing it. I have never been one for multiple POVs (points of view), but I thought I’d try this book out anyway. From the start, the personalities of the different characters confused me (not to mention that ebook I was given wasn’t formatted the best which contributed to the confusion) and I spent quite a lot of the beginning forcing myself to stop reading, switch POVs, and continue reading (which makes for a rather unpleasant reading experience XD).
I also didn’t really enjoy the writing style. It was a bit too laidback and slow-paced for me. After reading up to around the midpoint of the book, I decided to stop because I wasn’t invested in the characters at all and just wasn’t enjoying the book.
Overall, I didn’t love it! However, I do know that a lot of people do enjoy multiple POVs and a slower paced writing style, so I would go for it if you’re one of those people, and I think you’d enjoy! It just wasn’t for me. 2 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2018
A very quick read, that once I started I was finished in one setting.
You will soon feel like you have stepped into another dimension, a bit like the twilight Zone.
I could see this book quickly continuing with sequels, there are lots of hurting people out there.
Will the three chosen individuals here have life changes? Surprises are seen as we continue with the stories, and we wonder what is going to happen, and as with real life, not always as we hope.
This one is going to make you think, could this, be you?
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
You will soon feel like you have stepped into another dimension, a bit like the twilight Zone.
I could see this book quickly continuing with sequels, there are lots of hurting people out there.
Will the three chosen individuals here have life changes? Surprises are seen as we continue with the stories, and we wonder what is going to happen, and as with real life, not always as we hope.
This one is going to make you think, could this, be you?
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
March 3, 2019
I received my goodreads giveaway yesterday, read this book last night and have already shared it with a friend this morning because I enjoyed it so much. This book is a quick, delightful, thought prevoking story, along the same lines of Mitch Albom's books. I highly recommend spending the afternoon or evening with this book!
February 12, 2021
David Rawlings has written a speculative novel, dealing with emotional baggage. However, the term, “emotional baggage” isn’t used in the story. Rather Rawlings creates three scenarios where people are carrying emotional baggage that is detrimental to their daily decision making. Through the story, they are encouraged to deal with their “baggage” and live free of the issues that are holding them back in their career or relationships.
The story begins with three fictional people arriving at an airport and shortly after they arrive, they discover they have picked up the wrong luggage from the baggage carousel. To get their luggage, they must travel to the airport’s baggage depot and engage in a series of conversations with the baggage handler. The baggage handler is like a counsellor who helps them discover for themselves why they are allowing past issues in their lives to define them. I was pleased the baggage handler explained that these conversations were the beginning of a process. Dealing with emotional baggage is rarely a quick or easy process.
The three character’s backgrounds are all believable and relatable and intertwine in a well thought out manner. The story finishes in a satisfying, but not perfect way, leaving the reader with a sense of hope.
A good read.
The story begins with three fictional people arriving at an airport and shortly after they arrive, they discover they have picked up the wrong luggage from the baggage carousel. To get their luggage, they must travel to the airport’s baggage depot and engage in a series of conversations with the baggage handler. The baggage handler is like a counsellor who helps them discover for themselves why they are allowing past issues in their lives to define them. I was pleased the baggage handler explained that these conversations were the beginning of a process. Dealing with emotional baggage is rarely a quick or easy process.
The three character’s backgrounds are all believable and relatable and intertwine in a well thought out manner. The story finishes in a satisfying, but not perfect way, leaving the reader with a sense of hope.
A good read.
March 5, 2019
Three people: David, Gillian and Michael all arrive at the same airport on different flights and manage to take the wrong bag from the baggage conveyor belt. All happen to need certain content from their bags almost immediately and hence are tremendously inconvenienced by the mistake. On calling the airport they are directed to the speak to a gentleman who calls himself simply, the baggage handler who asks they meet him at a specific location.
All three separately arrive at this mysterious out of the way location and are ushered into different rooms where they meet this rather unusual character, the Baggage Handler. What takes place is part-counselling session, part life coach where they each discover the only way to leave with their own luggage is to process the 'baggage' they've been carrying around with them for much of their lives.
The three characters and their 'baggage' are all relatable and make the reader question for themselves what 'baggage' we may be carrying around that is holding us back. The Baggage Handler is a curious character who was at times frustratingly annoying and other times wonderfully empathetic.
Rawlings, for a debut novelist, is a strong writer and has produced an excellent story that explores some deep spiritual and psychological issues that make the reader think. Whilst the characters are easily relatable I found myself a little ambivalent towards them. I would have liked the story to have been a little longer to give more depth to the important issues our three characters were asked to confront.
I have no hesitation in recommending The Baggage Handler and look forward to buying copies for family and friends.
I received an early advanced readers copy from the publisher via NetGalley, however, this has no impact on my review. I'm looking forward to my pre-ordered copy to arrive any day.
All three separately arrive at this mysterious out of the way location and are ushered into different rooms where they meet this rather unusual character, the Baggage Handler. What takes place is part-counselling session, part life coach where they each discover the only way to leave with their own luggage is to process the 'baggage' they've been carrying around with them for much of their lives.
The three characters and their 'baggage' are all relatable and make the reader question for themselves what 'baggage' we may be carrying around that is holding us back. The Baggage Handler is a curious character who was at times frustratingly annoying and other times wonderfully empathetic.
Rawlings, for a debut novelist, is a strong writer and has produced an excellent story that explores some deep spiritual and psychological issues that make the reader think. Whilst the characters are easily relatable I found myself a little ambivalent towards them. I would have liked the story to have been a little longer to give more depth to the important issues our three characters were asked to confront.
I have no hesitation in recommending The Baggage Handler and look forward to buying copies for family and friends.
I received an early advanced readers copy from the publisher via NetGalley, however, this has no impact on my review. I'm looking forward to my pre-ordered copy to arrive any day.
February 14, 2019
This is a short gem of a book, David Rawlings has just gained a place up there with Andy Andrews. I have read several books that resemble this style, thought provoking, eye opening and have loved every one of them. Mr. Rawlings writing is excellent, the storyline is easy to follow and wow, it packs a punch. If you wonder if you have baggage, this is a perfect example to let you know you do, and a perfect example of how you can re-think your situation and possibly work toward a happier, more fulfilled life.
I personally found the book club review questions very enlightening at the end, was a great way to mull the story over.
I highly recommend and was given an advanced copy from Thomas Nelson through Net Galley for my honest review, this one gets 5****’s. Excellent read, highly recommend.
I personally found the book club review questions very enlightening at the end, was a great way to mull the story over.
I highly recommend and was given an advanced copy from Thomas Nelson through Net Galley for my honest review, this one gets 5****’s. Excellent read, highly recommend.
April 11, 2019
It doesn’t happen often, and maybe that’s a good thing. After all, if every time you picked up a book and read half a dozen pages—if every time that happened you just knew your life would never be the same—you’d have to stop reading. Our lives can’t shift that often or drastically without causing emotional chaos.
That’s kind of where I am today—in the middle of emotional chaos.
And I kind of did it to myself.
See, I saw this book a few months back. I read the synopsis. A truer statement would be that I breathed it into my soul and I knew. This would be one of those books. You know, those ones that change your life.
The ones where it’s never the same again?
At that point, I had a decision. One could say that I had a choice. I could “check my bags” and hop on the flight to this tour—go along for the ride, as it were. Or, I could just grab onto those bags and hoof it down the road.
I chose the book. I chose the tour. And yes, I chose well.
Why You Need To Let Go of All the Baggage in Your Life
“Personal baggage.” We hear the phrase bandied about on TV talk shows, podcasts, in break rooms and at MOPS meetings. The ubiquitous words mock us in our social media-driven desire to appear to have it all together even when we, and everyone around us, knows better.
We bemoan the ridiculousness of carting around that baggage, but we still carry it. Day in. Day out. Always.
David Rawlings has taken that simple truth and woven it into a story so complex, so deep, that it had to be told through the life of a simple man offering to do what only One has ever done—handle our baggage. If we’ll let Him. If we’ll give it to Him.
So why don’t we? Why do we choose to hold onto it? Among the pages of The Baggage Handler, you see through the lives of the characters within, why we hold on, why we hold back, why we refuse to give up this unwanted, unneeded, unwelcome baggage.
We see why we should throw off our Elsa gloves, fling back our arms, and “Let it [all] go.”
And it all starts with one man—one very selfless, Divine man. Our very own Baggage Handler.
One could argue that the book is "predictable" It is. We know, from the beginning, mostly what will happen. We can guess who will listen, who will find it harder to see, what each person's actual baggage is. However, I contend that this is one of the strengths of this book. Because our focus is never taken away from the expected, the true point of the book hits home even stronger and harder than it would have if we'd been left guessing our way through. Sometimes the expected is the strongest and most beautiful of all.
Rawlings planted a seed in me—maybe one he didn’t mean to. See, he never says this in the book, but I can’t get the thought out of my head. Aside from the futility of us carrying around baggage that does us no good, there are other reasons we should turn over our own baggage to the Baggage Handler.
That “one anothering” thing. We can help others better when we’re not weighed down with our own cares. It’s hard to serve someone when your hands are full of unwanted, unneeded, burdensome stuff.
That right there is an irony of this book that I do think was deliberate. Because see. It’s a heavy topic. The weight of our baggage? That’s a heavy, heavy, topic!
But this isn’t a heavy book. As if Rawlings took Jesus’ words to heart as he crafted a Baggage Handler something like Jesus might be, he kept the burden and weight of this book easy and light. That takes some serious writing skills there, folks.
And the book doesn’t read like a book written by someone “wielding skills” like a sword. It reads like someone offering a helping hand—taking away the burden.
Again, that’s why we need to let go of the baggage in our lives.
So we can help folks along… help them find the Baggage Handler.
The Baggage Handler is recommended… well, for anyone. I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t benefit from it. Written as an allegory, it’s so subtle, that even someone antagonistic to Jesus would allow its truths to seep in.
Look, we all know I don’t like preachy books, but I do like my Bible solidly placed when it should be. So I wondered why I wasn’t bothered those Scriptures weren’t there in all of their Biblical glory. And then it hit me. Sometimes we preach the gospel with other words and through those other words, people are drawn to the Word.
That’s exactly what Rawlings did.
I almost said I didn’t recommend this book for people who want to be crushed by the weight of their baggage, but that’s ridiculous. If anything, they need it most.
Just as I knew it would, The Baggage Handler changed my life. It inspired and encouraged me, yes. But it also ripped off the old, nasty bandages that I’d allowed to sit around and poison me. It washed the wounds clean with subtle reminders of what Scripture says (without actually using the Bible, actually), and left them open so fresh air could form the necessary scabs to healing.
All I can do at this point is to say thanks. Thank you, Mr. Rawlings. Thanks for a painful, beautiful, simple, deep, light book that just topped my 2019 favorite books list.
That’s kind of where I am today—in the middle of emotional chaos.
And I kind of did it to myself.
See, I saw this book a few months back. I read the synopsis. A truer statement would be that I breathed it into my soul and I knew. This would be one of those books. You know, those ones that change your life.
The ones where it’s never the same again?
At that point, I had a decision. One could say that I had a choice. I could “check my bags” and hop on the flight to this tour—go along for the ride, as it were. Or, I could just grab onto those bags and hoof it down the road.
I chose the book. I chose the tour. And yes, I chose well.
Why You Need To Let Go of All the Baggage in Your Life
“Personal baggage.” We hear the phrase bandied about on TV talk shows, podcasts, in break rooms and at MOPS meetings. The ubiquitous words mock us in our social media-driven desire to appear to have it all together even when we, and everyone around us, knows better.
We bemoan the ridiculousness of carting around that baggage, but we still carry it. Day in. Day out. Always.
David Rawlings has taken that simple truth and woven it into a story so complex, so deep, that it had to be told through the life of a simple man offering to do what only One has ever done—handle our baggage. If we’ll let Him. If we’ll give it to Him.
So why don’t we? Why do we choose to hold onto it? Among the pages of The Baggage Handler, you see through the lives of the characters within, why we hold on, why we hold back, why we refuse to give up this unwanted, unneeded, unwelcome baggage.
We see why we should throw off our Elsa gloves, fling back our arms, and “Let it [all] go.”
And it all starts with one man—one very selfless, Divine man. Our very own Baggage Handler.
One could argue that the book is "predictable" It is. We know, from the beginning, mostly what will happen. We can guess who will listen, who will find it harder to see, what each person's actual baggage is. However, I contend that this is one of the strengths of this book. Because our focus is never taken away from the expected, the true point of the book hits home even stronger and harder than it would have if we'd been left guessing our way through. Sometimes the expected is the strongest and most beautiful of all.
Rawlings planted a seed in me—maybe one he didn’t mean to. See, he never says this in the book, but I can’t get the thought out of my head. Aside from the futility of us carrying around baggage that does us no good, there are other reasons we should turn over our own baggage to the Baggage Handler.
That “one anothering” thing. We can help others better when we’re not weighed down with our own cares. It’s hard to serve someone when your hands are full of unwanted, unneeded, burdensome stuff.
That right there is an irony of this book that I do think was deliberate. Because see. It’s a heavy topic. The weight of our baggage? That’s a heavy, heavy, topic!
But this isn’t a heavy book. As if Rawlings took Jesus’ words to heart as he crafted a Baggage Handler something like Jesus might be, he kept the burden and weight of this book easy and light. That takes some serious writing skills there, folks.
And the book doesn’t read like a book written by someone “wielding skills” like a sword. It reads like someone offering a helping hand—taking away the burden.
Again, that’s why we need to let go of the baggage in our lives.
So we can help folks along… help them find the Baggage Handler.
The Baggage Handler is recommended… well, for anyone. I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t benefit from it. Written as an allegory, it’s so subtle, that even someone antagonistic to Jesus would allow its truths to seep in.
Look, we all know I don’t like preachy books, but I do like my Bible solidly placed when it should be. So I wondered why I wasn’t bothered those Scriptures weren’t there in all of their Biblical glory. And then it hit me. Sometimes we preach the gospel with other words and through those other words, people are drawn to the Word.
That’s exactly what Rawlings did.
I almost said I didn’t recommend this book for people who want to be crushed by the weight of their baggage, but that’s ridiculous. If anything, they need it most.
Just as I knew it would, The Baggage Handler changed my life. It inspired and encouraged me, yes. But it also ripped off the old, nasty bandages that I’d allowed to sit around and poison me. It washed the wounds clean with subtle reminders of what Scripture says (without actually using the Bible, actually), and left them open so fresh air could form the necessary scabs to healing.
All I can do at this point is to say thanks. Thank you, Mr. Rawlings. Thanks for a painful, beautiful, simple, deep, light book that just topped my 2019 favorite books list.
October 22, 2019
What a thought provoking debut! I loved the way the author uses three fictional characters to draw readers to evaluate their own baggage.
November 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Some of the "baggage " resonated with me and has got me thinking what baggage I've I been carrying around unknowingly.
January 20, 2019
This is an absolute must read! Such a wonderfully thought provoking book. I love the humor that the author incorporates into the story, the characters are easy to relate to.
October 4, 2019
I so enjoyed being drawn into this book. It seemed like a slow journey at first, but then I realized what was happening, and I just keep on reading. It was a great allegory of faith and how we carry weight around without even realizing it.
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