The Big Domino in the Sky: And Other Atheistic Tales [Paperback]

Michael Martin (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1996

Demonstrating that important, well-reasoned positions don't have to be presented in dry, philosophical prose, this collection is the only defense of atheism written in the form of engaging short stories that will arouse, provoke, and inspire. This book contains works of science fiction, historical fiction, and fantasy. Open-minded readers will find the tales entertaining and enlightening. Martin's unforgettable cast of characters includes the unique: A Catholic detective-priest, an android professor, a fideistic Harvard student, polytheistic aliens, and the more familiar: con men, a sadistic Marine Corps drill instructor, and Satan.

Product Details

• Paperback: 244 pages
• Publisher: Prometheus Books (December 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1573921114
• ISBN-13: 978-1573921114
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,260,989 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars A commendable attempt at popularising the case for atheism, September 1, 1998

By 

DEAN STRETTON (Australia) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Big Domino in the Sky: And Other Atheistic Tales (Paperback)

Martin's book essentially consists of large slabs of text copied from his _Atheism: A Philosophical Justification_, and pasted (as dialogue) into simple short stories. I suppose this is not, in itself, objectionable. Indeed, given that some of the stories are quite interesting even besides their philosophical content, Martin has surely succeeded in presenting the case for atheism in a way that uninitiated lay readers will find very palatable. However, those who have already read _Atheism_ have utterly no reason to buy _The Big Domino in the Sky_. The philosophical content is not new: the arguments were presented more thoroughly and systematically in _Atheism_. The fictional element is, of course, new; but Martin is a philosopher, not a writer, and the book is hardly worth buying for its fictional content alone. As such, _The Big Domino in the Sky_ would make an excellent _introduction_ to atheism -- but beyond this, its usefulness very quickly reaches a plateau.

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Atheism made easy, September 29, 2004

By 

Lee Tasey (Lincoln, NE) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Big Domino in the Sky: And Other Atheistic Tales (Paperback)

Looking for a book to summarize arguements for atheism? This is the place. Prof. Martin's book 'The Big Domino in the Sky' is loaded with stories, both funny and sad, that challenge theistic belief. There's no easier book to read than this one. Those looking for a more in-depth study of atheistic arguements should consult 'Atheism: A Philosophical Justification', also by Martin. However, if you're pressed for time, this is your book.

Also recommended: How to Lose Your Faith in Divinity School

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars I loved it, but that's me., April 29, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Big Domino in the Sky: And Other Atheistic Tales (Paperback)

Michael Martin's collection of short stories is unique, there can be no doubt. I cannot name another popular fictional book that is inspired by the same subject matter - atheism. There are probably other books that do have an atheistic theme, but Martin attempts to make a case for non belief through entertaining short stories that ranged from absolutely touching to incredibly clever. Unfortunately, one may be forced to think a great deal while reading, and a dogmatic orientation will render this book impossible to read. That's their problem. For those who do not mind a challenge, in a number of ways, try this rational alternative to CS Lewis. THIS will make sense.