In this book, Stuart Duffelmeyer is a young Jewish student on the verge of graduation. He's smart, he's quiet, and he is most definitely still a virgin. It's a combination that shouts geek. Very early in the story, it becomes apparent that Stuart's friends are nothing of the kind. In fact, the Egomaniacal Eight, as he comes to call them, have plans for the soon to be grad: a plot that will embarrass and humiliate him to the core. To lure a young man into such a position of powerlessness, it will require bait—sex, of course. After all, what college-age virgin male isn't looking to lose that status?
At the idea of finally losing his, Stuart jumps on the opportunity to meet in a run-down hotel—the place where the prank is set to go down—for a rendezvous. Why over-think a possible dream come true? It's an action that will change things for the young man and his attackers forever, because he won't be leaving with his dignity intact, and neither will he be able to let it go.
Stuart later comes into the possession of a talisman with the power to unleash plagues—a gift from the Almighty—which he uses to harness the forces of nature and get the revenge he so desires. Perhaps there will be a cost, or maybe not. Either way, playing with such power—especially so carelessly—never ends well. The most accurate description I can come up with is The Seventh Sign and Willard convert to Judaism, get married, and make this baby. There are many levels of plagues, many scenarios for destructive justice, and plenty of power to get it all done.
Personally, I found it enjoyable. There are ups and downs. Some of the metaphors are amazing and some I don't get; some of the book is written well and some of it could use revision; but I could definitely imagine it being made into a movie one day. The story gets repetitive from time to time, and the hypocritical credit to faith can be overwhelming, but all in all, the story is unique, fun, and worth a read. I would recommend it to open-minded readers that enjoy religious fantasy books.
Don't forget to tell me downstairs what you think.
0 comments: