Sample Book Review

Dr. Ernest Lane’s newest book, Wiley’s Discovery – A Fantasy Search for God (Creek Publishing, September, 2007) departs from many books of this genre in surprising and intellectually stimulating ways. Along the way he provides readers the opportunity to assess their own beliefs and ways of making judgments and decisions in their lives.

Dr Lane presents a thesis that self-righteousness for some is excessive and may be at the root of much of the world’s extremist viewpoints. Lane's approach to the subject is refreshing as he introduces a fantasy narrative to make his points. This dream world softens the reader’s access to the material. Instead of being confrontational and combative, the fantasy world provides a safe and interesting place to explore complex ideas.

Wiley’s Discovery extols the value of wonder and thankfulness for existence in the world while examining the dangers of excessive self-righteousness and moral certainty. It is his interweaving of concepts and ideas that provides the thought-provoking basis for his fantasy characters and, therefore, the reader’s ability to think through troubling issues like the meaning of life, the existence of God and the basis for religious doctrines.

This book has a place on the bookshelf of every seeker of truth and wisdom in life.