God

As part of his Enlightenment series, physician Deepak Chopra showcases the nature of God using 10 historical figures. Chopra recounts fictional stories about these important figures with clarity, fluidity, and simplicity that forefront how the depiction of God has changed throughout time. He presents his wisdom by incorporating the characteristics and belief systems of such crucial influences as Socrates and St. Paul. When Chopra's detailed thought process is heard out loud, it becomes a clearer and more powerful way to challenge one's views and beliefs. Spiritual seekers will appreciate the historical accounts and examples of change in the human consciousness of God. D.Z. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine

February 1, 2013

Few writers command as much attention in popular spirituality as the best-selling Chopra (Spiritual Solutions). This title, unusual for him, alternates fiction with reflection, examining the likes of Job, Socrates, Paul, Rumi, Anne Hutchinson, the Baal Shem Tov, and Rabindranath Tagore, scrutinizing their experiences for increasing our understanding of God. This work should be understood not as historical fiction, but as something more like allegory, and it is written with a care and vigor unusual for the often slapdash Chopra. VERDICT Using fictional narrative and the lessons of real lives as teaching tools, Chopra draws touching and intriguing conclusions; a must for Chopra's fans, and an excellent book for the general spiritual reader.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.