The horrific events of October 2, 2006 is a reminder of the uncertainty, brutality and harshness of the times we are living in. The tragedy drew sharp reactions worldwide. But what is remembered today is not the brutality of the crime that was perpetrated on innocent children that fateful day but the response of the people living in and around the West Nickel Mines Amish School.

In his book Forgiveness: A Legacy of the West Nickel Mines Amish School, John Ruth who is an authority on Anabaptist history deals with what he is familiar at – the Anabaptists and the teachings that are ingrained in them which brought about the benevolent act of forgiveness. Without mincing words, he says that forgiveness is sometimes a selfish act because it is more likely to benefit the person who forgives than the one receiving forgiveness.

It is a good book that will help readers understand what the Anabaptists stood for, but if exclusively viewed in the light of the tragic events of October 2, 2006 alone, one may find the issue is not adequately addressed. However, it is a book that must be devoured by any right-thinking person, irrespective of our religious beliefs. ( )