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Finding Reason
Book by Anderson, Bryce W.
- GenresFiction
204 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2009
67 people want to read
About the author
Bryce Anderson
15 books38 followers I was raised in Missoula, MT, which is the setting of my book (Finding Reason / Body of Knowledge). I read for Entertainment, Education, and Enlightenment, basically in that order. The best books have a blend of all three, in my opinion. I think I did a pretty good job of incorporating all three into my book.
I absolutely love reading to my kids, thus my reviews cover a broad range of books. I don't think it's fair to just throw a rating on a book and call it done, so I try to put at least one line of review on all the books I rate - to justify the rating. In general, my ratings are pretty high, probably because I do my homework on the book before I start reading it - thus I go into the book expecting a 4 star read. For the most part, I stick to fiction.
My memory is pretty good, and I build my writing off of it. The most common question I get asked about Body of Knowledge is: "Is that a true story?" -- which flatters me, because I think that's what good fiction is all about. [I'll leave you to decide the answer on your own.]
I absolutely love reading to my kids, thus my reviews cover a broad range of books. I don't think it's fair to just throw a rating on a book and call it done, so I try to put at least one line of review on all the books I rate - to justify the rating. In general, my ratings are pretty high, probably because I do my homework on the book before I start reading it - thus I go into the book expecting a 4 star read. For the most part, I stick to fiction.
My memory is pretty good, and I build my writing off of it. The most common question I get asked about Body of Knowledge is: "Is that a true story?" -- which flatters me, because I think that's what good fiction is all about. [I'll leave you to decide the answer on your own.]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 26, 2009
Finding Reason - a review from Curt Harvey
Let me preface by stating that I am not a big fan of organized religion. I do believe that God exists, but not in the form that has been hammered into the heads of the spiritually needy by the self proclaimed representatives of God. I don't tithe, and I rarely pray because my God gave me free will and expects me to take care of myself in this life.
I was loaned this book by a dear and special friend of whose beliefs I know nothing. This fact is worthy of mention because I had no idea why the book came with such laudatory praise. There was mention of fiction versus non-fiction and a reference to God, but I held up a hand to indicate that any more information would be too much. I'm one of those people who doesn't even read the back of book to see what it's about, relying on author reputation and referrals from friends to develop my reading list.
The story held, no gripped, my attention from the very beginning. I wasn't far into the book and I already felt like I knew Bryce (the character). Being a software developer myself, I guess the instant affinity was inevitable, but that's a topic for another day. As I read the very short chapters I could sense that the groundwork was being laid for something, but I had no idea what it was.
As it turned out, the short chapters lent themselves quite well to the method whereby the main character, John, took over the story. John's lessons to Bryce are reminiscent of another book that we've all heard of, but collectively know little about.
The growth of the relationship between John and Bryce unfolds as naturally as it might for two best friends. The desire to trust, the healthy skepticism, even the incredulity of some startling truths, they are all there.
Near the end of the book I became aware that I could go no further unless I was prepared to finish the tale. It was late, so I reluctantly put the book aside and tried to sleep. It came, but not as quickly as I would have liked.
The next morning was Sunday and I picked up the book after taking care of everything that could distract me, prepared to go the distance. In what seemed like just a few minutes I was at the end and in those few minutes I felt as if something had changed in me. The person who loaned me the book was now closer, as I had more than once been crying vicariously through her eyes. I had a new appreciation for the God that I feel we share, but view through different eyes and with a different heart. I wept. Not tears falling onto your shirt crying, but deep, racking sobs of the most heartfelt grief that I have ever had imparted upon my heart by a book. They changed to tears of joy as I read the epilogue.
There's nothing more I can say about this tale without giving it away.
Let me preface by stating that I am not a big fan of organized religion. I do believe that God exists, but not in the form that has been hammered into the heads of the spiritually needy by the self proclaimed representatives of God. I don't tithe, and I rarely pray because my God gave me free will and expects me to take care of myself in this life.
I was loaned this book by a dear and special friend of whose beliefs I know nothing. This fact is worthy of mention because I had no idea why the book came with such laudatory praise. There was mention of fiction versus non-fiction and a reference to God, but I held up a hand to indicate that any more information would be too much. I'm one of those people who doesn't even read the back of book to see what it's about, relying on author reputation and referrals from friends to develop my reading list.
The story held, no gripped, my attention from the very beginning. I wasn't far into the book and I already felt like I knew Bryce (the character). Being a software developer myself, I guess the instant affinity was inevitable, but that's a topic for another day. As I read the very short chapters I could sense that the groundwork was being laid for something, but I had no idea what it was.
As it turned out, the short chapters lent themselves quite well to the method whereby the main character, John, took over the story. John's lessons to Bryce are reminiscent of another book that we've all heard of, but collectively know little about.
The growth of the relationship between John and Bryce unfolds as naturally as it might for two best friends. The desire to trust, the healthy skepticism, even the incredulity of some startling truths, they are all there.
Near the end of the book I became aware that I could go no further unless I was prepared to finish the tale. It was late, so I reluctantly put the book aside and tried to sleep. It came, but not as quickly as I would have liked.
The next morning was Sunday and I picked up the book after taking care of everything that could distract me, prepared to go the distance. In what seemed like just a few minutes I was at the end and in those few minutes I felt as if something had changed in me. The person who loaned me the book was now closer, as I had more than once been crying vicariously through her eyes. I had a new appreciation for the God that I feel we share, but view through different eyes and with a different heart. I wept. Not tears falling onto your shirt crying, but deep, racking sobs of the most heartfelt grief that I have ever had imparted upon my heart by a book. They changed to tears of joy as I read the epilogue.
There's nothing more I can say about this tale without giving it away.
November 30, 2021
I read this book when it was titled "Body of Knowledge" which was prior to the author landing a contract with Ridan.
--
I have no doubt that this is one of the books that will endure generations, as they say, one of the “Next Great American Novels”.
Body of Knowledge, written by Bryce W. Anderson (from here referred to as BoK), has a simple and intriguing description printed on its back. Initially, it was this cover text that pulled me in:
____________________________
An ant has two stomachs. I know this because my neighbor told me. He’s incredibly intelligent and we’ve talked every evening on his porch for—has it only been two months? He’s taught me to look at everything differently, and I’ve learned so much: the nature of time, the value of inquiry, and an understanding that even the impossible can sometimes be true. He’s become my mentor, guide and best friend. So you see, I had no other choice but to see if I could kill him.
____________________________
… Where to go from here is difficult. Virtually no other details of the story can be discussed with out spoiling aspects of the tale.
The story follows the personal interactions of two men: Bryce (named after the author) and JP. Bryce awakes one morning to find a bizarre man (JP) across the street, moving into his neighborhood. Reluctantly, Bruce crosses the road and introduces himself. What follows is one of the most intricate and detail oriented stories I have read in 10 years. But it is not the story I expected, and I think that is they key to the books greatness.
Initially, I think I was like many others, cracking the pages of BoK was to going to bring out an anxious plotline, filled with deep-seated murder plans. I expected a generic book that was carried by it’s lively characters alone. I expected to be entertained.
About a third of the way through this book, I was caught off guard. The plot was nothing like I expected. There were no intricate plans laid. The story is far from being generic. As a side effect, I was completely unable to guess how it would end. Anderson presents the book in a manner that allows you to make your own conclusions. You can absorb the story with out having to worry about being pulled or pushed onto a mold. The book is not heavy handed; you are not told how to experience it.
Nutshell view? I was not merely entertained; I was driven to devour this book. I needed to know how it ended. Now, I need someone to read it so I can talk about it. The drive to devour still exists, but is funneled into a need to discuss. This is a book club book, worthy of sitting down over coffee and biscuits and bullshitting. I have passed my copy over to my fiancé so she could read it. In the meantime, I am a knot… tied to ideas I cannot discuss. I am being tortured.
I look forward to when the pages of my copy get older, when they take on the musty cinnamon/dried leaves odor of yellowing decay. I love this smell, and it is one of the main reasons I prefer used books. I think this small change will compliment the text in a manner no review I write could. After you read it, let me know if you agree.
Buy this book!
Author’s website: http://www.bryce-anderson.com
--
xpost RawBlurb.com
--
I have no doubt that this is one of the books that will endure generations, as they say, one of the “Next Great American Novels”.
Body of Knowledge, written by Bryce W. Anderson (from here referred to as BoK), has a simple and intriguing description printed on its back. Initially, it was this cover text that pulled me in:
____________________________
An ant has two stomachs. I know this because my neighbor told me. He’s incredibly intelligent and we’ve talked every evening on his porch for—has it only been two months? He’s taught me to look at everything differently, and I’ve learned so much: the nature of time, the value of inquiry, and an understanding that even the impossible can sometimes be true. He’s become my mentor, guide and best friend. So you see, I had no other choice but to see if I could kill him.
____________________________
… Where to go from here is difficult. Virtually no other details of the story can be discussed with out spoiling aspects of the tale.
The story follows the personal interactions of two men: Bryce (named after the author) and JP. Bryce awakes one morning to find a bizarre man (JP) across the street, moving into his neighborhood. Reluctantly, Bruce crosses the road and introduces himself. What follows is one of the most intricate and detail oriented stories I have read in 10 years. But it is not the story I expected, and I think that is they key to the books greatness.
Initially, I think I was like many others, cracking the pages of BoK was to going to bring out an anxious plotline, filled with deep-seated murder plans. I expected a generic book that was carried by it’s lively characters alone. I expected to be entertained.
About a third of the way through this book, I was caught off guard. The plot was nothing like I expected. There were no intricate plans laid. The story is far from being generic. As a side effect, I was completely unable to guess how it would end. Anderson presents the book in a manner that allows you to make your own conclusions. You can absorb the story with out having to worry about being pulled or pushed onto a mold. The book is not heavy handed; you are not told how to experience it.
Nutshell view? I was not merely entertained; I was driven to devour this book. I needed to know how it ended. Now, I need someone to read it so I can talk about it. The drive to devour still exists, but is funneled into a need to discuss. This is a book club book, worthy of sitting down over coffee and biscuits and bullshitting. I have passed my copy over to my fiancé so she could read it. In the meantime, I am a knot… tied to ideas I cannot discuss. I am being tortured.
I look forward to when the pages of my copy get older, when they take on the musty cinnamon/dried leaves odor of yellowing decay. I love this smell, and it is one of the main reasons I prefer used books. I think this small change will compliment the text in a manner no review I write could. After you read it, let me know if you agree.
Buy this book!
Author’s website: http://www.bryce-anderson.com
--
xpost RawBlurb.com
January 16, 2010
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
As many of the other reviews have stated, this book is intriguing, mysterious and captures you attention within the first few pages. Although I appreciated the quick, easy reading I found that I greatly enjoyed the first half of the book much more than the latter. Half way through the book I got bogged down and turned off by the historical biblical accounts that were being described and explained. However, this is just my personality, as I have always been automatically turned off when delving too deep into the accuracies and details of historical accounts/dates/places in the Bible. With a non-subjective perspective, for those that are attracted to this subject, the author does do a magnificent job in detailing and tying together these accounts with ease and excitement.
I was hoping to be as excited and in awe of this book as some of the reviews that I read. Don't get me wrong-- it is beautifully written, and a pleasure to read. I just didn't have the "aha" reaction I was anticipating. Perhaps it is because I am already a Christian that finds the existence and "proof" of God in other ways. The beautiful simplicity, yet complexity, of the conception and birth of a child amazes me. The fact that every person in this world does not look like another and has no other fingerprint pattern of another amazes me. The infinite number of species that remained unnamed in the world puts me in awe. The size of mountains and terrain and just the fact that there is such a thing as clouds and blue and sunsets and thunderstorms in the sky still mesmerizes me each day. It doesn't take much to see the proof of the existence of our Lord, and yet it's mind boggling at the same time. I guess I just don't have a mind that goes forward in setting out to prove these "mind-boggles". I just have faith in the existence, and find beauty in the mystery. In all truthfulness, it is one of the things I look forward to understanding in our eternal reward.
Still, I can see Bryce Anderson's craving to have a clearer depiction and understanding of the meaning of life. Overall, this is great book, especially if you are one who thinks in puzzles and mysteries, connecting ideas together, longing to understand more, and discovering biblical history that intertwines. And even if you're not, Bryce Anderson's book is still one worth picking up and pondering over. It does leave you thinking about it after it's put down.
As many of the other reviews have stated, this book is intriguing, mysterious and captures you attention within the first few pages. Although I appreciated the quick, easy reading I found that I greatly enjoyed the first half of the book much more than the latter. Half way through the book I got bogged down and turned off by the historical biblical accounts that were being described and explained. However, this is just my personality, as I have always been automatically turned off when delving too deep into the accuracies and details of historical accounts/dates/places in the Bible. With a non-subjective perspective, for those that are attracted to this subject, the author does do a magnificent job in detailing and tying together these accounts with ease and excitement.
I was hoping to be as excited and in awe of this book as some of the reviews that I read. Don't get me wrong-- it is beautifully written, and a pleasure to read. I just didn't have the "aha" reaction I was anticipating. Perhaps it is because I am already a Christian that finds the existence and "proof" of God in other ways. The beautiful simplicity, yet complexity, of the conception and birth of a child amazes me. The fact that every person in this world does not look like another and has no other fingerprint pattern of another amazes me. The infinite number of species that remained unnamed in the world puts me in awe. The size of mountains and terrain and just the fact that there is such a thing as clouds and blue and sunsets and thunderstorms in the sky still mesmerizes me each day. It doesn't take much to see the proof of the existence of our Lord, and yet it's mind boggling at the same time. I guess I just don't have a mind that goes forward in setting out to prove these "mind-boggles". I just have faith in the existence, and find beauty in the mystery. In all truthfulness, it is one of the things I look forward to understanding in our eternal reward.
Still, I can see Bryce Anderson's craving to have a clearer depiction and understanding of the meaning of life. Overall, this is great book, especially if you are one who thinks in puzzles and mysteries, connecting ideas together, longing to understand more, and discovering biblical history that intertwines. And even if you're not, Bryce Anderson's book is still one worth picking up and pondering over. It does leave you thinking about it after it's put down.
October 25, 2009
I came across this book from a fellow friend on GoodReads. The blurb on the back of the book was intriguing and I read a few pages from a Kindle download and I wanted to find out more.
The book tells the story of Bryce and JP who spend their evenings on JP's porch discussing everything from Dr. Seuss to the existence of God and one's own mortality.
The book is a short easy read written in a straight forward prose that does not interfere with the reader being swept away by the intellectual ponderings of these two new found friends.
The short chapters keep the pages turning in rapid succession as you are curious as to what subject they'll approach next. The introductory quotes at the top of each chapter are insightful, thought provoking, and poignant.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoyed The Shack or The Alchemist, or even people that just like to learn little facts and look at things from a different angle.
-- Robin The Crown Conspiracy | Avempartha | Nyphron Rising (Oct 2009)
The book tells the story of Bryce and JP who spend their evenings on JP's porch discussing everything from Dr. Seuss to the existence of God and one's own mortality.
The book is a short easy read written in a straight forward prose that does not interfere with the reader being swept away by the intellectual ponderings of these two new found friends.
The short chapters keep the pages turning in rapid succession as you are curious as to what subject they'll approach next. The introductory quotes at the top of each chapter are insightful, thought provoking, and poignant.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoyed The Shack or The Alchemist, or even people that just like to learn little facts and look at things from a different angle.
-- Robin The Crown Conspiracy | Avempartha | Nyphron Rising (Oct 2009)
January 25, 2010
Finding Reason a book that stays with you long after you finish turning the last page. I'm still walking around in a haze.(in a good way)
While the writing is straight forward, and easy to understand it is a book with deep meaning. There are 'layers' of information, and emotion written into each chapter. It is written in a way that made me reflect on my own life, information I've gathered over the years, and a desire to study more.
It's so hard to review this book without giving too much away. It is a profound, moving, "inspired" piece of literature. I usually devour books, and rarely re-read books once I've finished. I couldn't read this book quickly, I wanted to read every word, to soak it all in. I found myself re-reading chapters as soon as I had finished them... so I wouldn't miss anything. This is a book that I will most certainly re-read countless times. I'm sure my copy will end up dog-eared and highlighted with a ton of sticky notes throughout.
This is truly one of the best books I've ever read. I usually figure out the ending to books about a quarter way through most books... this book had 3 very good 'twists' that had me reeling. One of the best things about Finding Reason is that when I finished it I thought, "wow, didn't see a lot of that coming."
Finding Reason is an amazing book. I hope to read more from this author.
While the writing is straight forward, and easy to understand it is a book with deep meaning. There are 'layers' of information, and emotion written into each chapter. It is written in a way that made me reflect on my own life, information I've gathered over the years, and a desire to study more.
It's so hard to review this book without giving too much away. It is a profound, moving, "inspired" piece of literature. I usually devour books, and rarely re-read books once I've finished. I couldn't read this book quickly, I wanted to read every word, to soak it all in. I found myself re-reading chapters as soon as I had finished them... so I wouldn't miss anything. This is a book that I will most certainly re-read countless times. I'm sure my copy will end up dog-eared and highlighted with a ton of sticky notes throughout.
This is truly one of the best books I've ever read. I usually figure out the ending to books about a quarter way through most books... this book had 3 very good 'twists' that had me reeling. One of the best things about Finding Reason is that when I finished it I thought, "wow, didn't see a lot of that coming."
Finding Reason is an amazing book. I hope to read more from this author.
January 11, 2010
It was destiny, predetermined, it was in someones future that they could not yet recall yet, that this book was brought to me. It kept showing up all over on my recommendations, I finally marked "to read" and BAM! email from the author. Since then, I have been able to get to know the author from a distance, I have helped broaden his reader base, and I have been enlightened from a small book.
This book is VERY thought provoking. It is a book you won't put down. Both my husband and I read it in two sittings. And it has spawned many conversations in my house already. It has also enhanced my prayer life by drastically altering my conversation topics with God. I have even felt like going out and buying a patch for my right eye and start collecting wood.
It is inspiring to the mind. Get this book, read it and spread it. I love it that it is already on the best books of all time list here. I believe that this book will continue to blossom with time.
Thank you Bryce for reaching out to your readers. Giving us all a bit of insight into you and sharing your wonderfully made mind with all of us
This book is VERY thought provoking. It is a book you won't put down. Both my husband and I read it in two sittings. And it has spawned many conversations in my house already. It has also enhanced my prayer life by drastically altering my conversation topics with God. I have even felt like going out and buying a patch for my right eye and start collecting wood.
It is inspiring to the mind. Get this book, read it and spread it. I love it that it is already on the best books of all time list here. I believe that this book will continue to blossom with time.
Thank you Bryce for reaching out to your readers. Giving us all a bit of insight into you and sharing your wonderfully made mind with all of us
January 19, 2010
Evidently a small publishing house has picked up Bryce Anderson's FANTASTIC Body of Knowledge and given it a facelift and new title. Not sure I like the new title but I AM SURE I loved what was written between the covers. I've copied my review from BoK below. Good Luck Bryce and hopefully we'll be reading more of you soon!
Completely and utterly fascinating from page 1 to the the final cover! Highly recommend for all readers seeking to improve their thinking skills and boost their intelligence quotient. My only criticism came on page 145 in the single line that the main character utters,
"...we must each decide on our own definition of what 'truth' is, and where it comes from."
Truth is eternal and is not subjective only in that each individual gets to choose what truth they keep in their own personal "body of knowledge". Whether you choose to believe or not does not make Truth any less truthful.
And while Mr. Anderson may have had an interesting neighbor, I wonder how interesting our lives would be to have Mr. Anderson living next door!
WELL DONE!!
Completely and utterly fascinating from page 1 to the the final cover! Highly recommend for all readers seeking to improve their thinking skills and boost their intelligence quotient. My only criticism came on page 145 in the single line that the main character utters,
"...we must each decide on our own definition of what 'truth' is, and where it comes from."
Truth is eternal and is not subjective only in that each individual gets to choose what truth they keep in their own personal "body of knowledge". Whether you choose to believe or not does not make Truth any less truthful.
And while Mr. Anderson may have had an interesting neighbor, I wonder how interesting our lives would be to have Mr. Anderson living next door!
WELL DONE!!
January 10, 2010
** spoiler alert ** Wow, this was a real page turner! I read it in one sitting on a work night which I don't believe I've ever done. The premise was quite interesting, and while I'm not someone who has much (if any) faith in the validity of the Bible I now have an urge to dust mine off just to read the New Testament again.
The character JP was spot-on, behaving very much like I would expect a near-immortal disciple of Jesus to if he were still walking the earth. The narrator did a pretty good job of honing in on the questions many of us would want to ask JP if given the opportunity. My only complaint is that JP had to leave too soon... I was left wanting more of him!
This was a thought-provoking read as promised. It took me back to a "Philosophy of Religion" course that I enjoyed in college. It's not often that a novel has that kind of impact on me. I'll keep my fingers crossed for a book series in the future chronicling all the adventures of JP!
The character JP was spot-on, behaving very much like I would expect a near-immortal disciple of Jesus to if he were still walking the earth. The narrator did a pretty good job of honing in on the questions many of us would want to ask JP if given the opportunity. My only complaint is that JP had to leave too soon... I was left wanting more of him!
This was a thought-provoking read as promised. It took me back to a "Philosophy of Religion" course that I enjoyed in college. It's not often that a novel has that kind of impact on me. I'll keep my fingers crossed for a book series in the future chronicling all the adventures of JP!
January 13, 2010
I do love a book that has a memorable ending and this one definitely does. The author wrote the perfect set-up for a sequel and I'll be interested to hear more about J.P.
Mysteries are not my first choice of genre, but this one is of a different ilk and not easily defined. It may be a challenge finding this book since it's been picked up by a different publisher and the new title for the book is Finding Reason. The original title was Body of Knowledge.
Not only was the ending perfect, so was the excerpt that enticed me to read it:
Mysteries are not my first choice of genre, but this one is of a different ilk and not easily defined. It may be a challenge finding this book since it's been picked up by a different publisher and the new title for the book is Finding Reason. The original title was Body of Knowledge.
Not only was the ending perfect, so was the excerpt that enticed me to read it:
He knew everything. Is it possible to ask someone who knows everything too many questions? But I did ask a lot of questions, and there were always answers. And I liked the answers. They fit. They were logical. They placed everything in perspective and made me see the picture as a whole. I thought you might find it interesting why I thought the only logical thing I could do was kill him.
February 9, 2010
I loved this book. Wait, I LOVED this book. Still not conveying it: I LOVED THIS BOOK.
Having said that, this book is not for everyone. If you have read Danielewski's House of Leaves, or watched "What The @#*! do We Know?", chances are you will enjoy this book as well. Though Body of Knowledge is more reader friendly than House of Leaves and more religious than "What The @#*! do We Know?". It is a very thought provoking book through a series of conversations been the author and his mysterious neighbor ranging from ants, death, Christ, and the afterlife.
This is not a book to read for the action, there is none. Or even the characters, Bryce is an an "everyman" and whether JP is or is not who he claims to be is of no real importance either. It is the conversations and debate that occur because of his possible identity that is the point of Finding Reason (Previously published as Body of Knowledge).
Having said that, this book is not for everyone. If you have read Danielewski's House of Leaves, or watched "What The @#*! do We Know?", chances are you will enjoy this book as well. Though Body of Knowledge is more reader friendly than House of Leaves and more religious than "What The @#*! do We Know?". It is a very thought provoking book through a series of conversations been the author and his mysterious neighbor ranging from ants, death, Christ, and the afterlife.
This is not a book to read for the action, there is none. Or even the characters, Bryce is an an "everyman" and whether JP is or is not who he claims to be is of no real importance either. It is the conversations and debate that occur because of his possible identity that is the point of Finding Reason (Previously published as Body of Knowledge).
March 11, 2010
This is really quite a success story for Bryce in that he started with a few hand assembled copies. I originally read this when it was a self pubbed book titled "Body of Knowledge". I like the new title better.
It is not the type of book I gravitate toward when I choose my reading and I actually thought, based on the title (Body of Knowledge) that it would be something similar to Natalie Angier's "The Canon" which was awe inspiring.
I've done a sort of speed reading of "Finding Reason" and it seems like a better version (than Body of Knowledge) to get hold of. And you should. It is a nicely assembled story that is inspiring in its own way.
You can get more reviews about this book, along with my own, by checking out "Body of Knowledge". It is basically the same book, this one's just...tidier.
It is not the type of book I gravitate toward when I choose my reading and I actually thought, based on the title (Body of Knowledge) that it would be something similar to Natalie Angier's "The Canon" which was awe inspiring.
I've done a sort of speed reading of "Finding Reason" and it seems like a better version (than Body of Knowledge) to get hold of. And you should. It is a nicely assembled story that is inspiring in its own way.
You can get more reviews about this book, along with my own, by checking out "Body of Knowledge". It is basically the same book, this one's just...tidier.
January 13, 2010
In reading Bryce Anderson's "Body of Knowledge" I was trying to determine if it was an autobiography with fictional overtones, a complete work of fiction made to seem more real by using the author's name and biographical background, or intended as a non-fiction work. At the end, I'm still not certain. It is an entertaining and enjoyable read as we accompany Mr. Anderson as he grows to know and love his new and mysterious neighbor, JP. The logical and methodical approach to determining JP's veracity regarding his true identity creates a compelling means to the puzzles solution. The reader needs to keep an open mind in order to stay involved. And, ultimately, if the story is to be believed, a huge leap of faith.
January 21, 2010
Bryce Anderson is moving up in the world. A new publisher has re-vamped his great book Body of Knowledge, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and given it a new title and cover while keeping the amazing content. Here is the review of this great book but with the original title:
Body of Knowledge is quite an enjoyable literary work. It’s charming, witty, and thought-provoking. It is a story of faith, friendship, journeys, and self discovery. Bryce Anderson is open and honest as he reveals what I’m sure is very personal thoughts and ideas discovered through years of pondering. His book contains light, truth, and inspiration that most literary works lack today. I highly recommend it as an addition to your personal library.
Body of Knowledge is quite an enjoyable literary work. It’s charming, witty, and thought-provoking. It is a story of faith, friendship, journeys, and self discovery. Bryce Anderson is open and honest as he reveals what I’m sure is very personal thoughts and ideas discovered through years of pondering. His book contains light, truth, and inspiration that most literary works lack today. I highly recommend it as an addition to your personal library.
January 10, 2010
This book is not what I expected at all. I really enjoyed it. I bought the book from the author and it was worth every penny. This book brought out the intellectual side of me that I forget to use at times and it was very inspirational with humor too. It really helped me to view life and time in a new light. I would recommend everyone to read this book. I am curious what religion the author is??? Either way, I loved this book.
Bryce, I wanted to say, well done. When you finish another book I will most definitely read it. I enjoyed this thoroughly. I am happy to add it to my bookshelf and I am SO glad that I own it.
Bryce, I wanted to say, well done. When you finish another book I will most definitely read it. I enjoyed this thoroughly. I am happy to add it to my bookshelf and I am SO glad that I own it.
January 15, 2010
I received a signed copy of this book from Bryce a week or so ago, and having just finished the lengthy works of Dumas, I wanted to tackle it.
Here's a small sign of how much I'm enjoying it: I got on the train at Penn station for my train ride home, and 40 minutes later, I was halfway through the book and almost missed my stop...
I don't think I've read something I've enjoyed this much in a while. I can't wait to finish it on the train ride home today. I'm definitely hoping to see something more from this author.
Edit: Wow...I've recommended this book to everyone. An amazing first novel, and a great story.
Here's a small sign of how much I'm enjoying it: I got on the train at Penn station for my train ride home, and 40 minutes later, I was halfway through the book and almost missed my stop...
I don't think I've read something I've enjoyed this much in a while. I can't wait to finish it on the train ride home today. I'm definitely hoping to see something more from this author.
Edit: Wow...I've recommended this book to everyone. An amazing first novel, and a great story.
September 13, 2010
I had a hard time rating this book. I really loved the idea of the book, the storyline was excellent, and the back cover description is absolutly perfect. However, the author didn't really give much credit to the intelligence of his readers. He spelled out a lot of things that the reader could have easily assumed/deduced for themselves. Which was kind of ironic given the story about being good teachers. On a technical note, its not the best written story, but I felt that the story made me think.
January 10, 2010
This book was nothing like what I thought it would be, which made it better. It's a book to read slowly and mull over not one to just devour and throw back on the shelf. One could read it numerous times and still get something new from it every time. I think anyone who likes something new and unexpected would enjoy it and I plan to read it again and share it with others. It was enlightening.
January 16, 2010
This was a surprise to me. Although I can't really put into words what I was expecting, I just know I wasn't expecting to go where the book went. While there are religious tones to it they are there to expand your knowledge and make you think about what you know and what you thought you knew.
I really did enjoy the book immensely even though it isn't my genre, which is one of the reasons I enjoy goodreads so much.
I really did enjoy the book immensely even though it isn't my genre, which is one of the reasons I enjoy goodreads so much.
January 15, 2010
This is a fascinating book that will have you thinking about many things on many different levels. It leads you to a self-examination of your life and priorities, taking cues from biblical references. Thought provoking and entertaining, it is hard to put down... you just want to see where it is going.
January 30, 2010
WOW! What an amazing book! Great job Bryce Anderson! This book will stimulate your mind with deep questions of life and eternity. Yet it is an easy to read, don't want to put it down book! I would definitely recommend this book to everyone! If you loved The Shack, you will love this book! If you did not read The Shack, read this book! Finding Reason should be on a Best Sellers list!
January 6, 2010
I finished the book a couple of days ago, and yet I feel as if I just put it down. This book stirred emotion and thought like no other has done in the past. It may be a quick read, but it will have a lasting impression.
September 17, 2010
'Do you believe what you believe?' This question comes to mind when reading this book. It's incredibly thought provoking from a non-judgmental standpoint. I loved it!
January 10, 2010
wow great book, would have never thought of the plot plus i love thatbyrce put so much of himseel into it not just his name. it seemed so real. 10 out of 5 stars(i said it right)
January 15, 2010
Not what I was expecting....it was refreshing to read a book so unpredictable.
February 19, 2010
Having read the first book, I knew what to expect in this version, and it didn't dissapoint, I would recommend both versions.
April 21, 2010
The book formerly known as Body of Knowledge...
February 17, 2010
This book made me think and also entertained me. Definitely a good read!
November 7, 2024
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. Left me feeling goosebumps, which is always evidence of Spirit moving through my body. I won’t share what it is about because it’s important that the ah ha moments be individual to the reader. During this time where we struggle in what we can believe is true, I feel like it is the perfect book at the perfect time. With a copyright of 2018, I feel like it was a book before it’s time and this Divinely Inspired. Read it! You will be glad you did!
January 10, 2010
This is a republication of Bryce's "Body of Knowledge".
I really enjoyed this book - it is hard to discuss the plot without revealing too much of the book at once. If you like Daniel Quinn, then you will like this book - it's a mental journey, a thought experiment, and a discussion starter.
I really enjoyed this book - it is hard to discuss the plot without revealing too much of the book at once. If you like Daniel Quinn, then you will like this book - it's a mental journey, a thought experiment, and a discussion starter.
January 15, 2010
Previously titled Body of Knowledge. An easy-to-read philosophical tome. Would definitely recommend.
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