I Am the Messenger

Just finished a really good book, I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak.  The book is a “pick-me-up” – “I can make a difference if I pay attention to the world and others” kind of book.  The main character, Ed Kennedy, and his three friends are in a bank during a robbery.  When his friend’s car is needed as the get-away car, Ed moves into action and helps stop the robber.  What happens next to this “non-descript, going no-where” fast young man is the beginning of a new adventure as he begins to receive some notoriety for his heroics at the bank heist.  A few days after the trail of the robber, Ed starts to receive communications from an unknown person, and receives a playing card, one of four aces that will come during the story.  The ace of diamonds comes first and lists three addresses.  Ed is unsure what the cryptic message means but he eventually decides to visit the homes and then the real meaning of life for Ed begins to happen.  Ed learns from the various homes (and what is happening in the lives of those who live there) what it is he needs to do by watching what is happening.  He helps a young girl gain confidence in her desire to run faster at her track meets, assists a bullied young boy to be loved by his brother, and helps a battered wife by driving away the husband who rapes her.  The next two “aces” have different clues but all lead him to three more people/families to assist and finally the last card, the ace of hearts has him respond to the lives of three close friends, helping them face their inner struggles.  Through all of this Ed learns he isn’t ordinary, in fact he is extraordinary by acting on the calling he mysteriously receives.  The unknown sender brings the book full circle.  This is a nice story that will bring some moments of joy and maybe a brief tear to your eyes.  I really liked it and love when there is a message that is accessible for all.  Great characters and a gripping story-line.  While it certainly has the feel of a religious storyline, the author never moves in that direction.  It is a quick read and worth dreaming along and watching Ed realize when you think you are the messenger, you in fact are the message!  Nice!