Publisher: Cohort Press
ISBN: 0-9777196-0-X
Commencing in the pristine Garden of Eden, then moving quickly to the tragic event of Original Sin and its consequences for subsequent human history, Pastore’s tale explores cosmological, theological and anthropological questions that have puzzled humankind since the beginning of time.
and my parents and I could follow
or not follow our whims and all things were provided . . .
life in the Valley required a routine
and tasks needed to be performed. . . .
I realized that I had control over my own life
but with that control came duty (p. 56).
When the adult Traveler falls in love, he gains this insight into relationships:
not because God wanted to be loved above all others,
but because God did not want me to lose my self, my soul,
which was his greatest gift, for love of another.
Such love is not love, but obsession.
And in obsession we surrender our free will (p. 139).
Upon discovering ancient dinosaur bones, Traveler and his son reach this conclusion regarding evolution:
to the world or be forever lost (pp. 160-161).
Alone in Eden is beautifully written. Traveler’s voice and tone are perfectly suited for his character and Pastore’s lush descriptions pull the reader fully into the scene. The story is well-paced and it never loses momentum. My one criticism is that Traveler is too far removed from much of the action. He witnesses much evil, yet always manages to avoid engaging in conflict himself. Traveler is wise, patient and sympathetic, yet somehow aloof. Nevertheless, he does successfully draw and hold the reader in the story.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys spiritual fantasy. If you like the works of C.S. Lewis, you’ll probably enjoy Alone in Eden.
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