Answering the Contemplative Call: First Steps on the Mystical Path

In this book, aimed both at beginners and those hoping to steer their faith in a more contemplative direction, McColman (The Big Book of Christian Mysticism) acts as guide and companion on the journey to becoming a Christian mystic. “A mystic,” writes McColman, “is simply a man or woman in love with God, and the Church is hungry for such people.” McColman fleshes out the “spiritual journey” metaphor, using it in robust ways to describe preparing for and embarking on the mystical path. The book is divided into three parts—recognizing the call, preparing for the journey, and setting out on the adventure. Although McColman covers well-trodden ground—and perhaps overuses the word “silly” in the first part of the book—his apt choice of quotations and stories from Christian mystics (including the Desert Fathers, Julian of Norwich, and Thomas Merton) and his strong final section make the book an informative and worthwhile read. Agent: Linda Roghaar (Feb.)