Introduction to Religion in a Fantasy Narrative

A Way to “Get Through” to Students

A fantasy story about religion; a great way to introduce students to religious studies. Wiley's Discovery – A Fantasy Search for God (author: Ernest Lane, MD; Creek Publishing, September, 2007), is valuable in the introductory phase of courses in religious studies, philosophy of religion, and psychology of religion.

In a dream world of one who, when awake, faces possible news of impending death, Wiley is concerned about the meaning of his life. The reader follows him in this fantasy dream as he explores the nature of religion. The narrative covers many points of view about God and the meaning of existence. It is worthwhile to consider Wiley's Discovery for your introductory religion class.

In this book the text and graphics are geared for easy-to-read accessibility by young adults. Away from customary home surroundings, college age students often begin to question their core beliefs. Wonder about questions such as the meaning of life and the existence of God: these are concerns of many at that age—and for some at any age.

The presentation of various religious outlooks in a fantasy makes available ready insight into a number of points of view. Also, since the material is accessible in a story, it is geared to promote active student engagement, setting the tone for increased involvement in subsequent study.

The scope of material covered in Wiley's Discovery is impressive. As examples, in one passage three different views of God are presented in short skits by one actor. God is seen as avenging and violent, as a source for benevolence and salvation, and as a mystery. In another section a pantheistic God of religious naturalism is portrayed and also a naturalistic view that does not include God.

Another part presents a fantasy character who uses abstract words that point to the ineffability of God:

Praying Mantis: God is the Absolute.

Wiley: The Absolute? The Absolute what? What do you mean?

Praying Mantis: If you have to ask, it must seem strange to you.

Wiley: Right. I don’t know why you call God the Absolute.

Praying Mantis: It’s quite clear. First let me say that the Absolute is an impressive word. It sounds powerful. I’ll give you another word that can be used. The Absolute means the Ultimate—that which is the source of all meaning. You cannot know the Absolute beyond that. It means something vague and important and unknowable. It is a mystery. Belief in God, the Absolute, involves a sense of mystery.

The value of Wiley's Discovery is expressed in the foreword by Michael Cavanaugh, Past President of the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science: “I think you will soon agree with me that the story you are about to read is delightful, scientifically accurate, and easily communicates some ideas that are just flat hard to get across in a meaningful way.”

About the Author:

Since childhood, Dr. Ernest Lane has had exposure to a mix of religions and philosophies. His interest in the meaning of and existence of God and
fundamental values was stimulated through his upbringing. He has devoted much of his time into researching this topic since his retirement from medical practice. His third book, Wiley's Discovery, takes his wide-ranging background and places it into a fantasy setting that explores many of the paths that spiritual seekers of all types can explore and find valuable. His website, www.wileysdiscovery.com, gives further information and sources by which to obtain this book (Wiley's Discovery, Creek Publishing, $14.95, 144 pages).

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