God, NO!

Try reading a book attempting to convince you that the Ten Commandments are ridiculous as you fly to Abu Dhabi on Easter Day.  I guess, wrong book to have in one’s bag for a trip lasting twelve hours.  Enter the world of Penn Jillette’s God, NO!  Jillette uses arguments of how the Bible actually doesn’t preach the commandment, “treat others as you would treat yourself”, for example, “If God told you to kill your child, would you do it.  If your answer is no, in my booklet you’re an atheist.  There is no doubt in your mind.  Love and morality are more important to you than faith.  If your answer is yes, please reconsider”.  Jillette goes through each commandment and attempts to demonstrate that each one is flawed in their own way.  He actually makes solid points on how ‘humanism’ is the way to go.  He weaves in stories of his trajectory as a magician and reality star throughout the book, providing his followers a view of how he developed his own thinking and strength as a man.  He also has no problem in “tempting” religious people to come to a new belief.  For instance, he shares the story of a devout orthodox man who decided to contact Jillette and ask him to be there when he breaks being kosher for the first time.  Jillette revels in the experience of watching he man eat his first bacon burger, among other foods against the religion.  Besides living a rather hedonistic life, Jillette is a dedicated son, husband, and father.  He illustrates the traits of being a good human being to others whom he loves.  For fans of Jillette, you are introduced to a serious and thought-provoking guy who wants to convert and overthrow religious followers…. Of all God following people, he doesn’t discriminate.  While the stories and arguments are palatable, his inconsistent action makes me wonder is he serving his truth, or trying to make a buck selling a book that demonizes those who use faith as a way to live a better life.  A quick read, so isn’t a hug investment in time should you not enjoy the argument.