Vietnam veteran Michael Jernigan heard the blast from his apartment. The next day the headlines screamed, "Accidental blast Uncovers Local Islamic Terror Cell." Jernigan was filling in for a faculty member on maternity leave. The college students began asking questions concerning the terrorist. One student asked the profound question, "Why do they want to kill us?" Dr. Jernigan is a follower of Jesus Christ but does not call himself a Christian. He determines to spend the next few weeks discussing religions stickiest questions. The students felt comfortable with him and readily discussed their beliefs. He shared his story with them. During his stint in Vietnam, he was given the opportunity to live with the Cardamom and study with Master Map Nuth. Nuth shared "The Five Crossings" with him. What he learned reshaped his life.

I try to be open-minded when I review a book, but I struggled with skepticism as I opened the cover of Five Sacred Crossings. My skepticism soon turned to eagerness. I swiftly turned the pages eager to learn more.

Jesus Christ taught in the form of parables. Hazen has cleverly incorporated the same strategy. Through the dialogue between Jerigan and class members, all becomes clear. I can picture Jesus' disciples discussing his teachings in quite the same manner. The discussion of the Prodigal Son particularly touched me and was paramount to this story. This book contains so many truths; "There is a God and that he is deeply personal" is just one. This is not a preachy text; it is a story of compassion, emotion, and passion. I was reminded of the scripture, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" John 15:13.

The plot is well developed and built to a crescendo. I became engrossed in the story as well as the subtle teachings. I will never look at the story of the prodigal son again without remembering this book. The characters were real; and seemed to play out the drama on the pages. While I read this book from a Christian background and perspective, other religions will also enjoy it and find it informative and touching. I recommend this book to all people regardless of faith.