| Non-Fiction 42: The Answer to Life, the Universe, And Everything Mol Smith OnView Books 2007 ISBN: 978-0-9557137-0-5 Soft cover 178 pages 42: The Answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything is author Mol Smith's bold response to questions about the purpose for human existence, the creation of the earth, birth and death, and a number of other puzzling issues that people strive to understand. Smith's responses to these questions are unconventional and may present as disturbing to some and affirmative to others. The foundation of this text is the evaluation of two formidable ideologies in society: religion and science. Smith picks apart religious belief, suggesting it is a way for humans to fulfill the need to know their purpose through the use of fantasy: images and beliefs that cannot be proven. The author's beliefs appear to fall more on the scientific side in his discussions of the big bang and quantum theories. But he also considers other theories on the development of life on earth, such as the idea that humans are the result of an alien experiment. 42 is essentially the personal thoughts of one man based on his extensive reading and life experiences. Smith refers to work from philosophers and scientists, but most of his beliefs contrast with currently accepted thought. For example, the author states that "Machine-human hybrid awareness will supersede human-only awareness" and "…the reason for everything being is for the joy of it being-like a song (42)." The book is a challenging read. Smith incorporates traditional beliefs, accepted scientific fact, his own deductive reasoning, and anecdotal stories. It may take readers more than one turn with the book to get the point of 42 as the author intends for it to be received. 42: The Answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything may be difficult for those with firm ideas about the purpose of life either on the religious or scientific side. But for those seeking alternative answers and a chance to see if their own unconventional theories are shared, this book offers possibilities. Melissa Levine For Independent Professional Book Reviewers www.bookreviewers.org |