The Book of Heaven: An Anthology of Writings from Ancient to Modern Times Book

As old as time, the promise of heaven continues to enchant our spirits and define our lives on Earth. It is also the source of inspiration for many of the world's greatest poems and writings. Thankfully, editor Carol Zaleski and husband Philip Zaleski (editor of Parabola magazine and The Best Spiritual Writing series) realised the potential for this sweeping and beautiful anthology. Drawing from ancient myths, classic poems, everyday prayers, and even some high comedy, this collection manages to straddle the balance between reverence and irreverence. For example, reverence seeps from the stunning "Iroquois Mother's Lament" recorded in the 19th century as she speaks over the body of her son, promising a reunion in the home of their maker. Irreverence comes in tasteful waves, such as an excerpt from Mark Twain's Captain Stormfield's Visit to Heaven, where the frustrated captain has difficulty mastering his blasted wings.Despite the variety of voices, traditions and time periods represented (a Hans Christian Anderson fairy-tale stands beside a passage from South India's "Bhagavata Puraba") the anthology hangs together, mostly due to the editors' thoughtful introductions and organisation. Naturally, readers will come to this book with high expectations. Yet, like its subject matter, The Book of Heaven delivers all that it promises. --Gail HudsonRead More