This week I read my second modern classic, Alas, Babylon, by Pat Frank. This was also my first apocalyptic book I have read, besides the Bible. It is definitely my first apocalyptic fiction book, and..... I LOVED IT!
My main working book list is from the DeMille's at a Thomas Jefferson Education. When using a book list, I always spend a lot of time trying to figure out WHY? a book got on a certain list. Since TJEd is about leadership education, I think I figured it out! The central character, Randy, transforms as a leader in his community, home and corner of Florida that just happened to be able to avoid all the H-bombs and radiation that destroyed the bulk of America. We observe him wrestling with his worldview along with just trying to survive without electricity, running water, gas, or the need for money. When all is stripped bare, we observe how man is. The humanism is pervasive in this book, without any reliance on God or faith in His plan, but I love the mental gymnastics that come from stretching your brain in this way. I would say the biggest hole in this book is that no one wrestles with the problem of pain.
However, I highly recommend Alas, Babylon.
For 10 points, leave a comment and tell me where the title comes from (I know the answer).
Heather
This challenge sounds like a good one. I look forward to hearing about all of the books that you read. As for me, I could read 52 school books in 52 weeks at this stage, but finding the time to read 52 books for pleasure of my choosing would be hard to do.
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