Book Reviews

God Has a Dream: A Vision of Hope for Our Time by Desmond Tutu with Douglas Abrams, Doubleday, New York, 2004; ISBN 0385477848, 144 pages, hardback, $16.95.

"Dear Child of God, I write these words because we all experience sadness, we all come at times to despair, and we all lose hope that the suffering in our lives and in our world will ever end. I want to share with you my faith and my understanding that this suffering can be transformed and redeemed." In simple language, illustrated with events from his life and the struggle against Apartheid, the author presents his vision of the possibilities which can be brought about when we "see with the eyes of the heart" and take responsibility for bringing about a world of peace and justice through our individual decisions and actions.

Much of the material appears scattered throughout No Future without Forgiveness, his longer 1999 book on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, but as reworked here stands as a "cumulative expression" of the lifework of this Nobel Peace Prize winner. The greatness of the man shines through. Presented in Christian language, but with universal appeal, the book emphasizes the fact of brotherhood -- that we are all children of one spiritual source -- and the necessity of acting with love, compassion, forgiveness, and patience to bring about a better future for all. -- Sarah B. Dougherty


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