Rating 8/10.
A delivery man hands over a package, only to be asked “Did you deliver the package, or did the package deliver you?” And this sets the tone for the remainder of the book.
To be clear, the book does not provide instructions for a thought experiment, but rather the dialogue between the two men sets the reader on a thought provoking journey, about (amongst other things) God, the universe, free will and probability.
SPOILER ALERT!!
The men discuss a chain of topics, each generally linked to the previous, and (ultimately) culminating in the idea that what we think of God, is actually probability. (I know it’s not explained well here, that’s why I recommend reading the book, which actually puts the idea of it across really well.)
I found it hard to argue the case against whilst reading along. Not that it’s a particularly strong argument, more that my objections were always covered as the dialogue went on.
The wise man portrayed in the book also has some things to say about the differences between men and women – ideas that I don’t find myself agreeing with – namely that men and women value different things.
It became clear early on that the book is aimed at those who have a perception of God as being omnipotent and omnipresent. Towards the end of the book, the wise man discusses karma, and proffers briefs ideas on how best to live your life – which is ironic given what he says about free will.
After the dialogue between the two men ceases, the book becomes more story-like and this brief story is told through the eyes of the delivery man, and depicts how roles can become cyclical.
It’s a powerful book, despite its 132 page brevity. I was completely entertained by the mind-bending discussion and I would definitely read it again – though some of the ideas will now always stay with me.
BookBlogbyCari 