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Book Review: Tales from the Other Side by Paul Corson

Paul Corson’s “Tales from the Other Side” was designed as a companion piece to his “Reclaiming Paradise: Forming a New Worldview, Knowing God and Traveling Into Eternity.” While the books are strong enough to be independent readings, when taken together their message is elevated to the next level.

But first of all, a few words about “Regaining Paradise”. This daring book goes beyond the curtain of materiality to tackle some of the most important existential questions drawing on personal experience, science and rationality / logic, peppered with a bit of imagination. Although the spark of this intellectual and spiritual quest lies in the author’s three momentous experiences, he relies heavily on science to argue his perspective.

In “Tales from the Other Side,” Paul Corson delves into his personal life, revealing examples of when the “Other Side” leaked onto this side. These confessions and stories will allow the reader to take a more holistic view of the thought process of their spiritual journey. The book is segmented into seven magical parts, of which five are autobiographical, the next part is a rather unusual conversation (between space travelers and stargazers) and the last part consists of fictional stories that form allegories.

The autobiographical parts present a seemingly disjointed series of events drawn from different periods in Paul Corson’s life. But these pieces of the puzzle fit the general pattern of a larger plan. These simple, everyday stories with all too familiar “characters” often defy expectations and explanations. Some events will give you the creeps, others can be fun … but taken together, they accomplish two essential things: 1) they raise questions and curiosity, and 2) they draw attention to the little good deeds. In my opinion, this is the greatest achievement of the book, to make the reader reflect on spiritual matters, but also to encourage by example to do each and every good deed, no matter how trivial they may seem.

The seventh part is also of particular interest, as the two mystical allegories are strikingly different from the earlier parts of the book. The first story follows the reboot of civilization and its potential downfall. It is an eye-opening narrative about human nature and its dual potential for good and evil. The second story is a science fiction tale, revolving around a sentient planet, space travel, and telepathic communication. Paul Corson presents us with probably the two most important events in the life of this lonely planet, a first visit from space travelers, which opens a bright new chapter for her; and a second visit from a more familiar planet, which could threaten to close that chapter.

All in all, “Tales from the Other Side” is a quick and easy read that (hopefully) leaves a lasting impression. The author does not attempt to hypnotize the reader with sophisticated linguistic or aesthetic feats, but rather addresses the message in a direct and frank way. Maybe that’s why it hits harder.

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