The first half was brilliantly set up and well written. Loved the suspense, the fearful tension, the unease and uncertainty. The child behaves like a child. Stakes are constantly raised. However... The literal Biblical scenes in the second half felt quite heavyhanded. The discrediting of native lore to show Christianity’s power + the use of a white savior narrative did not sit well with me.
A wonderful tale that starts in one beautifully described place and then takes you on an unexpected journey full of thought-provoking entertainment. Another one of his winners!
I found Chayatocha gripping from beginning to end. It is an extremely well-paced book and a fast read—little time is spent waiting for things to happen. I think what I enjoyed most about it was the element of surprise involved. I was never sure where the story was going to go next. At times it is a horror thriller with settings and tension equal to the best in the genre. Other times it is historical fiction with descriptive and well thought out scenes. Still other times it is an action piece. But ultimately Chayatocha carries a powerful Christian message in a unique and entertaining way. After reading this and Ice, I consider myself a Shane Johnson fan.