I was sent an email a month or two ago from John Shore about reading and reviewing his book I’m Ok - You’re Not. Not being one who ever gets approached about reading and writing reviews and not being one to turn his nose up to a free book I jumped at the chance.

What I know about Shore only comes from his book. And what seems clear to me is he is greatly concerned about how believers live toward those who are far from God and he tries to communicate that in a very laid back and humorous fashion. Both of these are evidenced in the style and tone of his writing, which is extremely informal and unorthodox at times, almost as if he were talking to the reader instead of writing a book.

But more important than tone is what Shore actually says. And it is clear his desire is for believers to live out both aspects of the Great Commandment - love God AND love others. And so the book travels a path leading the reader to a place of positive engagement with those far from God, actually coming to the place of loving those who are different than us.

It seems clear that Shores own background has a lot to do with his unique perspective on this issue. Growing up in a flawed home with parents who both, at one time or other, jettisoned their responsibility toward the family and then (apparently) becoming a Christ follower late in life, Shore knows what it looks like and feels like to be one of the “others.” This comes through in his sensitivity to the issues those far from God experience and the prophetic insensitivity he displays for those who claim to be part of the club - which seems an appropriate description for how Shore sees most of Christianity.

One of the most interesting parts of the book was the end of every chapter had a section called, “Ouch” which was filled with real comments from people about Christians and Christianity. Shore took out adds on Craig’s List asking people to reply to him with their assessment of Christians and he the responses he received are extremely illuminating. (I thought this was a really creative idea.)

For the most part the book was worth the time, being encouraged to love as Jesus loved is always important to hear. At times the style of the writing was hard for me to take in and while this is merely personal preference, the informality was an annoyance at times.

If you’re looking for a creative take on relating to those far from God, from a guy who clearly desires to see the Christian community do just that, then I’m Ok - You’re Not might be a book to pick up.