Review by Wyland -- Of Zots and Xoodles

[Wyland]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Of Zots and Xoodles" by Zarqnon the Embarrassed.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Since time immemorial, man has mooted many different theories on the origins of our universe. Now, many years later, things, like the Big Bang theory, you may have assumed to be true might be false, thanks to a revelation advanced by Zarqnon the Embarrassed in his book Of Zots and Xoodles. Of utmost importance, though, is that if this cosmic event has been shrouded in mystery ever since, it’s not the “creator” to blame but the incredulity of the numerous witnesses who had been invited to the event to help proclaim it.

Apart from the witnesses (the “committee” or the “crowd”) and the “creator,” Theodil, we have other players, like the “child” and the “Internuncio.” It appears the “child” gets Theodil’s juices flowing while the “Internuncio” does nothing but announce to the “crowd” what has been created, even though the “crowd” is in attendance the whole time! Before time, space, and matter, I got to learn how Theodil conceptualized the first simple life forms before progressing into more complex ones (Xoodles).

All in all, Theodil emerges as a character who is patient and long-suffering whilst dealing with the dissenting voices. He avoids destruction as it proves nothing in itself; instead, he realizes that that which opposes “is necessary for the balance.” As the narrative unravels, it dawned on me that the “crowd’s” dissension is not limited or focused on anything in particular. Sadly, unlike the “child,” due to the hardness of the heart, the “crowd” will never understand the ways of the “creator.” Moreover, it amused me to discern who the “crowd” is.

So, in a derisive tone, Zarqnon exposes the foolhardiness of the “crowd.” While the “creator” is demonstrating his technique, for example, some of them (unknowingly?) face the wrong direction; not to mention, they are already distracted even before the show begins. Nevertheless, this doesn’t stop them from expressing a strong opinion on anything touching on creation.

As it was, Zarqnon’s writing is inventive and with a cryptic message, and it can easily be dismissed as illogical. Far from the truth, however, Zargnon’s writing is engrossing because it engages the mind logically. As was the case with me, it may take more than one reading to understand what he’s driving at. Luckily, this is easily doable as the book is short.

As I finish, there’s absolutely nothing I disliked about this book: it’s well-edited and the subject is stimulating and contemporary. As a result, I rate it 4 out of 4 stars.

At only 47 pages long, this is one of the best philosophical books I have ever read. I recommend it to those who want a book to stimulate their intellectual muscles and help them in some soul searching.

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Of Zots and Xoodles
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[Tomah]

I've been interested in this book for a while, but for the life of me I couldn't grasp what was going on. Maybe it does take several readings to fully understand. Thanks for the review, it makes me eager to try this one out again sometime!

[Wyland]

I've been interested in this book for a while, but for the life of me I couldn't grasp what was going on. Maybe it does take several readings to fully understand. Thanks for the review, it makes me eager to try this one out again sometime!

The author really is the master of the absurd, but the message is there for those who seek. Thanks for your wonderful comments!

[Anon_Reviewer]

This book would definitely have my mind working overtime, which I wouldn't mind right now. That it was superbly edited is a plus. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Great review!

[Reynaa]

I read Zots and Xoodles, as well and had a hard time grasping it. The physical manipulations of the elements he creates was confusing for me when trying to picture the setting of the book.
You wrote a really comprehensive description of the book, nice review!

[Rayasaurus]

I’ve thought about reading this one so many times, but haven’t picked it up just yet. It seems really complicated, but I’m sure I could understand it after a read or two. Thank you for the review!

[Nerea]

I've been hesitant to select this book for review because I'm afraid it might have some distorting theories about the origin of the universe. But your review gives me a reason to consider the book. Thanks

[Falconcrest]

This sounds like a very interesting book and am willing to give it a go. I was wondering what it was all about, thanks for clarifying it all Wyland. Fantastic review.

[Kanda_theGreat]

I'm also transfixed about the different creation theories, but I love reading from different sources and try to reason with those sources.
I think I'll pick this one.
Great review.

[Julius_]

I've read and reviewed this book. I like the creativity in his proposal on the origin of the universe. Thanks for the review.

[Wyland]

This book would definitely have my mind working overtime, which I wouldn't mind right now. That it was superbly edited is a plus. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Great review!

Thanks for your kind comments!

[Wyland]

I read Zots and Xoodles, as well and had a hard time grasping it. The physical manipulations of the elements he creates was confusing for me when trying to picture the setting of the book.
You wrote a really comprehensive description of the book, nice review!

Thanks for your kind comments!

[Wyland]

I’ve thought about reading this one so many times, but haven’t picked it up just yet. It seems really complicated, but I’m sure I could understand it after a read or two. Thank you for the review!

Thanks for your kind comments!

[Wyland]

I've been hesitant to select this book for review because I'm afraid it might have some distorting theories about the origin of the universe. But your review gives me a reason to consider the book. Thanks

Thanks for the kind comments!

[Wyland]

This sounds like a very interesting book and am willing to give it a go. I was wondering what it was all about, thanks for clarifying it all Wyland. Fantastic review.

Thanks for the kind comments Falconcrest!