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Free the Beagle - A Journey to Destinae (02) by Williams, Roy H [Paperback (2002)]
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
March 20, 2008
Kind of an odd coincidence that I read this book literally right after I finished Pilgrim's Progress since they are written in such similar styles. I think that is a good thing because it prompts some important comparisons. Besides the obvious length and ease of language differences, I would say that the essence or purpose of both books are completely at odds. While both books are clearly meant to enlighten, The Pilgrim's Progress seeks to inform and engage readers of a very specific worldview. There are no alternative interpretations or any kind of demand to utilize the lessons from the book in any domain other than one's faith (and the one true faith at that).
William's book, on the other hand, is a self-proclaimed "Rubik's cube" of literature. His entire purpose seems to be to develop a symbolic puzzle that can be used by any person from any background to further his or her own worldview. His "commentary" at the end of the book makes this goal perfectly clear. The story really is cleverly developed, entertaining, thought provoking, and I believe Williams was successful in his stated goal, but I still didn't care for the book. For me, in trying to reach everyone, you end up reaching no one. I think this book represents relativism at its best. Lots of sound life principles (which can have practical benefits), but no real Truth (with a capital T) behind them. Although the book is thought provoking, if I want to think about ultimate meaning and the nature of life I'd much prefer to read books like Scott Adam's "God's Debris" or Daniel Quinn's "Ishmael", which at least proclaim some kind of truth (even if I disagree with it) rather than being everything to everyone.
William's book, on the other hand, is a self-proclaimed "Rubik's cube" of literature. His entire purpose seems to be to develop a symbolic puzzle that can be used by any person from any background to further his or her own worldview. His "commentary" at the end of the book makes this goal perfectly clear. The story really is cleverly developed, entertaining, thought provoking, and I believe Williams was successful in his stated goal, but I still didn't care for the book. For me, in trying to reach everyone, you end up reaching no one. I think this book represents relativism at its best. Lots of sound life principles (which can have practical benefits), but no real Truth (with a capital T) behind them. Although the book is thought provoking, if I want to think about ultimate meaning and the nature of life I'd much prefer to read books like Scott Adam's "God's Debris" or Daniel Quinn's "Ishmael", which at least proclaim some kind of truth (even if I disagree with it) rather than being everything to everyone.
November 23, 2014
I picked this book up in a second hand book shop and only realized I didn't get the the CD when I started reading the book so my review might not be accurate.
I was a bit confused reading it initially but once I read the transcript I read it again and got quite a lot out of it.
It is described as a business book but I feel it is more a self help book to get you focused on your own goals again.
Please can someone tell me what I missed by not having the CD?
I was a bit confused reading it initially but once I read the transcript I read it again and got quite a lot out of it.
It is described as a business book but I feel it is more a self help book to get you focused on your own goals again.
Please can someone tell me what I missed by not having the CD?
December 20, 2007
It reminds me a bit of "Pilgrim's Progress"... only better (but then, I only read the first half of PP, so I may be biased). It's a sweet little story and I really enjoyed it.
The two sequels (Beagles of Destinae and Beagles Visit the Seven Sisters are somewhat repetitive, but still enjoyable.
The two sequels (Beagles of Destinae and Beagles Visit the Seven Sisters are somewhat repetitive, but still enjoyable.
May 5, 2008
I learned that you can write a book that's like a Rubik's Cube.
Actually, it's a good little book with a great discussion at the end about the different interpretations. My friend works for the author and really enjoys his job.
Actually, it's a good little book with a great discussion at the end about the different interpretations. My friend works for the author and really enjoys his job.
December 13, 2009
A compact parable, this book is engorged and dripping with meaning, particularly for entrepreneurs, aspiring leaders, and the mission-driven.
Reading it made me feel giddy and invincible.
Reading it made me feel giddy and invincible.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews