Review: Harmonious story that meshes with a hidden melody
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 25, 2014
This is the third Akley book I’ve read this month and it’s my favorite. “The Psalmist” is the fictionalized story of a blues musician told in 33 chapters that are broken up into five separate books that “correlate to the book of Psalms and its relation to the Pentateuch.” And much like a musician, the story (much like Akley’s other stories) seems to flow along in time to a hidden melody that once you catch the cadence of his writing, gives this story that extra dimension as it takes on the role of harmony.While I will readily applaud his efforts to blend journal entries with narration, there were times when the story broke from its role (as harmony) and I had to re-read sections to make sure I understood what was being said. And for me that detracted from the story, but in reading all three of these works now, I’ve gained an appreciation for his writing.Much like Akley’s other books, these are not simple or quick reads. These are books that should be read with intent. Take your time and don’t blow through them. You won’t regret it and you may learn something in the process. “And I saw I suddenly understood. Heaven and Hell offer the same circumstances same conditions. The difference is in the way people treat each other.”