A Journey into the Seventh Dimension: My Thoughts on The Door by Lorilyn Roberts
I was initially drawn to Seventh Dimension – The Door for a simple reason: the idea of a door leading to a secret garden sparked my imagination like a long-forgotten childhood dream. As I opened the pages of this intriguing first book in the series by Lorilyn Roberts, I didn’t just embark on a fantasy adventure; I embarked on a deeply personal journey alongside the protagonist, Shale Snyder.
The story dives right into the tumultuous life of Shale, a young girl burdened by insecurities and a school life plagued by bullying. The opening scene captures her essence perfectly: she’s grappling with a curse and a harsh reality that makes her feel isolated. Shale’s growth throughout the narrative is both heartwarming and relatable, resonating with anyone who has felt lost or unseen in their struggles. When an unexpected friendship forms with a stray dog named Much-Afraid, it signals the beginning of her transformative adventure—a choice made from vulnerability that leads her into the mythical Seventh Dimension.
Roberts beautifully intertwines contemporary issues like bullying and self-doubt with a retelling of Jesus’ life through Shale’s experiences in ancient Jerusalem. This dynamic fusion of history, fantasy, and spirituality adds depth to the story, making it more than just a coming-of-age tale. It’s a narrative that encourages walking by faith, an important theme for its intended young adult audience. One moment that struck a chord with me is when Shale reflects on her own worth amidst her hardships, a sentiment beautifully echoed in the author’s quote, “Time is an illusion until God’s appointed time.” This thought resonates beyond the pages, offering comfort in times of uncertainty.
Roberts’s writing style is approachable and warm, making it easy to lose track of time while flipping pages. The pacing ebbs and flows with Shale’s emotional journey—each moment weighted with significance, drawing readers into a world where talking animals serve as wise companions rather than mere fantastical characters. I found Shale’s conversations with Baruch the donkey particularly soulful; their exchanges reveal insights about love, acceptance, and the importance of finding joy even against the backdrop of bitterness.
The characters are richly developed, with each playing a unique role in shaping Shale’s journey. I absolutely adored the companions she meets, especially Lowly the pig and Cherios the rabbit, whose delightful quirks added humor and levity. Through them, we explore concepts of forgiveness and resilience, which beautifully resonate with both young readers and adults alike.
To anyone struggling with feelings of unworthiness, or for those simply seeking a captivating story that gently educates while entertaining, Seventh Dimension – The Door is a wonderful choice. This book serves as a reminder that our journeys may not always be straightforward, but they are essential in discovering who we are meant to be.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a magical escape combined with meaningful life lessons, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into Shale’s world. Whether you’re a young adult or simply young at heart, Lorilyn Roberts invites us all to reflect, to question our own realities, and to ultimately believe in the extraordinary. Happy reading!