Customer Reviews

The Testament of Theophilus: A Novel of Christ and Caesar

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Have you ever read a book so good that for weeks afterward you rummage around looking for something to equal it? A book so good that it forces you to crossword puzzles when you're done, because there just isn't anything worthy enough for your eyes? This is one of those books, and, frankly, I never suspected the "Mouse That Roared" man had it in him. Theophilus is a world-weary, "modern" character living in ancient Rome. (One starts to suspect that other historical icons were really much more like us than we believe.) He reacts to rumors of Christ's resurrection with an X-Files-ish mix of skepticism and hope. Think religion isn't relevant anymore? Think again

I once had a long and pleasant conversation with Leonard Wibberley. We were trapped together in the attic of a Southern Californa public library. He was a worldly-wise, wise and very kind man a year or two away from his death. I did not read The Testament to Theophilus until long after it was too late for me to tell Leonard how good it is. This book takes the reader through the Gospels at the side of a canny and very reluctant Christian. As with Mel's movie, the horror and the drama of the Passion are there. The messages of love and redemption, however, are also amply and intelligently explored. This book deserves a wide readership. I hope you'll spread the word.

Robert Walton