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by: Ben Jonjak
Publisher: 1stbooks.com, 2001
Reviewed by: Elaine Daly “Glorious Failure” is the first novel of Wisconsin author Ben Jonjak. Although he has surpassed this work with his other novels, “Glorious Failure” is an interesting and provocative read. It is the story of a young man, Walter Pan, who appears to be at war with himself and with his society. Although this theme is common enough, the effect of the work is compounded by the fact that Walter also appears to be the reincarnation of Christ. As the story progresses, it is clear that Walter, like Christ, wants nothing more than to exist and work for the benefit of his fellow man. The obstacles to this dream, however, provide a desperate and penetrating insight into our current culture. The question that is proposed by “Glorious Failure” is: If Christ came back to Earth, how would we treat him? Would we show that we had learned from the progression of time? Or would the results be essentially the same as his last visit? “Glorious Failure” is not the type of work that mires itself in religious doctrine, nor is it preachy or heavy-handed. It is simply an honest assessment of our society from a young author who is proving to be one of the most provocative working moralists. Further information about Ben Jonjak and “Glorious Failure” can be found in the interview at the following URL: http://www.pageonelit.com/interviews/BJonjak.html "Glorious Failure" is available at: amazon.com barnesandnoble.com and at a discounted price at: http://www.1stbooks.com/bookview/5635 Ben Jonjak is available for comments and questions at: gloriousfailure@yahoo.com |
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