I just read a rather thought-provoking book by Scott Adams, the author of Dilbert. There's a banner on that comic page that links to a page offering the free download of God's Debris. It's apparently a really big success story.
Why is it a good read? Precisely because it's rather controversial and thought-provoking. It's like a cross between fiction and philosophy, where ideas are presented via a simple story. I find it a very interesting read and opens up my mind to several perspectives I haven't thought of. Although some of it might sound far-fetched, but for some reason, they just seem to click and sound reasonable. Go figure.
A word of warning though, DO NOT read if you're narrow-minded and easily offended by views and ideas that do not subscribe to the norm. The story is presented as a dialogue and the discussions touch upon religion, evolution, human nature, relationships, and reality. The best way to enjoy the read is to be open and neither accept nor reject the views, but to simply ponder... and argue (if anyone wants to argue the points, I'd be happy to oblige, I like to argue ^-^).
There's apparently a sequel, called the Religion War, that was hinted at near the end of God's Debris. My curiosity is definitely piqued. Unfortunately, the price at Amazon means it'll probably cost at least RM60 around here, if the government even approves of it... Oh well.
Showing posts with label book review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book review. Show all posts
The Da Vinci Code
on Tuesday, 3 January 2006
I'm currently reading The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. I must say it's been an interesting read (finished about three-quarters). While the story is intriguing and the author is a fine writer, I believe the one main reason it's taken the world by storm (since 2003 I think) is because of the controversial views it presented of Christianity. I am quite ashamed to admit that I was actually quite taken in by the disclaimer page titled "Fact", which went on to state that "all descriptions of ...documents, and secret rituals in this novel are accurate."
After googling a bit and surfing around, I am relieved to find my doubts to be foolish notions so easily planted by a masterful storyteller. Sigh. Still alot of space my faith needs to grow into. Anyway, here are some of the debunking views and statements made by those of the faith and historians: here, here, here, here, here, and here. It was kind of a relief to find out that others had doubts too... phew...
What I was wondering about is the author's view on his story. Does he believe about the so-called facts and hard evidence (despite being rather shaky) or is this just a marketing move designed to make his books bestsellers? It certainly did propel his books to fame. Or is this even some kind of conspiracy? We'll never know I guess, but I do know this:
That disclaimer page which claims the facts being presented are true is very very bad... it will seriously mislead any who are not familiar with Christianity and drive away those who are already apathetic, ignorant, or hostile to Christianity.
To all who have read The Da Vinci Code, are reading it, or plan to read it, please bear in mind that it's fiction. Come to think of it, I must be pretty gullible or shaky in my faith to get all worked up like this.... Oh well, time for a prayer.
After googling a bit and surfing around, I am relieved to find my doubts to be foolish notions so easily planted by a masterful storyteller. Sigh. Still alot of space my faith needs to grow into. Anyway, here are some of the debunking views and statements made by those of the faith and historians: here, here, here, here, here, and here. It was kind of a relief to find out that others had doubts too... phew...
What I was wondering about is the author's view on his story. Does he believe about the so-called facts and hard evidence (despite being rather shaky) or is this just a marketing move designed to make his books bestsellers? It certainly did propel his books to fame. Or is this even some kind of conspiracy? We'll never know I guess, but I do know this:
That disclaimer page which claims the facts being presented are true is very very bad... it will seriously mislead any who are not familiar with Christianity and drive away those who are already apathetic, ignorant, or hostile to Christianity.
To all who have read The Da Vinci Code, are reading it, or plan to read it, please bear in mind that it's fiction. Come to think of it, I must be pretty gullible or shaky in my faith to get all worked up like this.... Oh well, time for a prayer.
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