Publisher's Synopsis
In a prefatory note Mr. Kernahan says he is quite prepared to be told that this little book is neither literature nor theology. An author ought of course to be prepared for anything, but Mr. Kernahan need not be uneasy about the quality of his work. His little volume is literature, being theological only in the sense in which Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress," is theology. The author uses Biblical language to unfold dreams, of which he describes three or four. We wish he had dispensed with the little side notes, which are an intrusion in a small page some two inches wide. Regarding the motive Mr. Kernahan writes: "Some who read my booklet will join hands with me in my confession of faith. Not a few - for I fully realize that what to me is no intellectual stumbling-block may to others, differently constituted, prove an unsurmountable difficulty - will part company at the outset." But those who relish interesting and stimulating reading will go on. The best part of the book is the chapter describing the deathbed of a harlot who, as she dies, seeks consolation in Christianity. It is a well-worn subject, but Mr. Kernahan treats it in a masterly manner. It must not however be thought that the volume is realistic. It treats of dreams - vain, unsubstantial dreams. But are not some of the most delightful works in English literature composed of the same material? Mr. Kernahan has, we think, done stronger work, but we question whether he has written anything which shows his peculiar qualities better than does "The Child, the Wise Man, and the Devil." It is not meant for frivolous readers.
-London Publishers' Circular [1897]
