TOP GOD Book Review

by Doug Shear

A Divine Comedy of Epic Proportions

Shear’s “Top God” is an outrageously creative voyage that ventures to explore the intricate realms of spirituality, religion, and the human condition while offering insightful analysis and a good dose of humor. It is uncommon to come across a novel that so deftly combines fantasy, theology, and humor, but Shear does it.

This book was such a fun read. And the pictures and images inside really complete the whole package. It’s available in paperback, hardcover, and Kindle edition but I love my paperback version because I can hold it in my hand and also flip through all the full-color images. Keep this in mind when looking at the prices too – it’s not cheap to print a high quality physical book like this so the prices are really great when you consider that.

Now, let’s dive into the story.

Apocalypse?

The protagonist of “Top God” is a reggae artist who, in spite of all the obstacles, turns into the improbable hero assigned to save the end of the world. He receives a trumpet from Angel Israfel, telling him to call upon the Harbingers of Doom, and this sets up an unparalleled showdown between supernatural creatures from different faiths. The execution of the concept is what really sets this book apart, while the notion alone will draw you in.

The plot is disorganized in the most delightful way. As these gods battle, the followers of these gods turn against each other, trying to establish their own divinity as the supreme Top God. The Gog and Magog Vlog, a deft and hilarious touch that gives a contemporary spin to an age-old struggle, narrates the events while the globe waits in anticipation. This story is thought-provoking and fascinating because of the collision of the sacred and profane, the past and the present.

A Fresh Take on Religion

Shear is nothing short of a master at bringing humor to such a serious subject. In literature, religion is sometimes approached with reverence or conflict; nevertheless, “Top God” offers a sarcastic yet respectful examination of faith, taking a different approach. Though it does so in a way that feels inclusive rather than offensive, the book isn’t afraid to make fun of the peculiarities of religious practices and beliefs. Shear strikes a careful balance throughout to keep the book approachable for a broad readership.

Another standout feature of “Top God” is the original graphic artwork. The odd and amazing graphics, which draw inspiration from numerous religions, give the story a deeper level of complexity. In addition to being complimentary, these images are essential to the story and improve the reading experience by giving the turmoil that is happening a strange backdrop. The 3D artwork renderings in “Top God” are quite amazing if you enjoy reading books with a lot of visual elements.

Not for the Faint of Heart

“Top God” deviates from the norm in religious fiction. It defies conventional storylines with audacity, irreverence, and fearlessness. And honest, this is why I loved it so much!

This book is meant for those who are seeking something fresh and unique that defies easy categorization into a single category. This book is for you if you’re sick of formulaic storylines and are willing to embrace a hallucinogenic, equal-opportunity satire.

It’s important to remember, though, that “Top God” is not for the easily offended. The subject matter is occasionally contentious, the humor is incisive, and the satire is piercing. That is, nevertheless, an unforgettable book for anyone who can stomach its chutzpah.

A Must-Read for the Brave

Few authors can pull off a novel that is both laugh-out-loud amusing and deadly serious at the same time. The book presents a novel, thought-provoking, and entertaining viewpoint on faith. “Top God” is a must-read regardless of your preference for satire, fantasy, or religious literature.

With so many formulaic stories out there, this one is a shining example of creativity. This work is deserving of great acclaim because it dares to be distinctive. If the concept is correct, buying this book will not only make it a fantastic read, but it will also contribute to averting the end of the world. How’s that for value addition?

Final Thoughts

“Top God” is a wild and enjoyable trip across all major world religions, illuminating the diverse ways in which people relate to the divine. It’s a thought-provoking, entertaining, and ultimately memorable novel. Strongly suggested for readers willing to take a literary risk.