Genesis by Bernard Beckett
I attended the book launch for this book, and the whole idea seemed fascinating at the time. I quickly got it added to my ‘work’ reading list and even managed an immediate deadline for completion. And I am glat that I did.
This is the most unusual scifi book that I have read in a very long time. It is written for kids, but it is certainly not written down. I spent the whole time reading this book wishing that I remembered more of my Philosophy 101 course from my university days. I understood the story alright, but I think the whole book was could be read at a whole different level. It turns out I was right.
Anyway, the plot… The book opens in the distant future. The action takes place during a doctoral interview. How unusual is that? This young student has made her specialty the life of one of the founders of their new society. He was a young man of independence who had great skill in solving problems creatively. The story moves back and forth between the interview and the events of Adam’s life as retold by this student. Does this sound boring? Be honest.
Beckett’s artistry is in keeping this story riveting. Very quickly we like this young student and are cheering for her success. She claims to have made new discoveries, and found new interpretations, and we are with her all the way. She has to succeed. And every reader will want to be like Adam, proud and independent with the strength and determination to do what he believes is right, regardless of others. If that’s not enough, let me assure you that there is a twist at the end that caught me.
As soon as I had finished, I handed the book on to the philosophy teacher. Her enthusiasm convinced me that Beckett really had added many more complex layers that I, and many readers, will simply miss. Might I suggest that you keep a copy of Philosophy for Beginners at hand as you read this book. You will truly enjoy the story even more.
