The Power of Story

Stories Have Remarkable Power

An Eye-opening Classic

Have you read “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”? Over the years I have heard criticisms of the story and in turn did not read it. However, I recently picked up a copy at Barnes & Noble. Wow! What a powerful story and relevant for today with the separation of children from their families at the border. During the days of slave trading children were taken from their mother’s arms and sold, never to be seen again. Even a wife or husband might be sold “down the river,” as they say—families ripped apart generally without any element of empathy on the part of the seller or the buyer.

The power of story is in its intellectual and emotional appeal to our senses. Reading “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” you feel the terror, pain, and bewilderment of the child as well as the heart-wrenching agony of the mother. Harriet Beecher Stowe takes you into their minds and dresses you with their raw emotions and you are faced with the utter depravity of the entire slave culture.

Also, I was somewhat indifferent in my attitude toward the situation at the border, paying it little attention. In reading Uncle Tom’s Cabin my eyes were opened to the immorality of the policy of separating families. But they are illegals! Yes, so we would punish the children for the sins of the parents? In Deuteronomy 24:16-17 (NKJV) we read, “Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor shall the children be put to death for their fathers; a person shall be put to death for his own sin. Regarding that issue, my attitude has changed from somewhat indifferent to empathetic. The power of story!

Is Reading Fiction Mere Escapism?

People have said to me at times, “I don’t read fiction. It is mere escapism with no real value.” They want something that will educate or a “true” story that will inspire. Granted, some fiction is little more than escapism. On the other hand, fiction can indeed educate and inspire. I can pretty much guarantee that reading “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” will both educate and inspire you.

When I write a story one goal is to entertain. On the other hand, I also endeavor to make the reader think, and in so doing to educate to him or her to one degree or another. Furthermore, while entertaining I also purpose to inspire.

Free E-books for Kindle

“The Requiting” (1st in the Framer of Times series) and “The Droll Child” are free at Amazon June 23rd through June 27th. Do take advantage of this promo designed to introduce you to my books! (use Amazon link in next section)

Your Comments Are Valued

I would love to have you read my stories and give me your feedback. My books are available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

What are your thoughts relative to the power of story? Please share them with me in the comment box.