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challenging
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
The story reimagines the Philippines as a highly developed nation. In here, the main character, publishing zillionaire Danny Livingstone drove to his death. Now supposedly in heaven, he is to return to earth for a specific mission.
When it comes to the writing, I found the book readable. The first third focuses on character introductions, and kept me turning the pages. There’s plenty of humor and satire as the story explores humanity’s conditions, motivations, and flaws.
I also thought the world-building was creatively executed. For me, it doesn’t fit neatly into traditional speculative fiction. More of a combination of fantasy, contemporary elements, and magical realism. The depiction of heaven, its inhabitants, the omniscient Lord, and the familiar names who come to life with their antics and advice for Danny—these are mostly entertaining. The distinct points of view, including those of a female poet, a novelist/national hero and a world-famous playwright, made the voices varied and entertaining, with their antics and biases based on their respective historical contexts.
I must also say two major things that affected my impressions of this book. First is with regard to the mature themes. There was excessive reference to sex and sexual thoughts- with one insufferable character getting to my nerves all the time. If this is satire, well it doesn’t sound satirical enough and I didn’t see the point of including that much. Such excess overshadows the substance of the characters, which at the end seemed somewhat shallow.
I wish that the attention given to such repetitive themes was instead poured into the plot- to deliver a clear message about where the book stands amidst the more important themes of societal development, technological advancement, culture and art, gender, life purpose, among others.
Reading this was quite an experience. It’s not everyday that I read a book as chaotic as this and it is part of my resolve to read diverse books. Literary readers and students could have a field day analyzing its themes, style, and structure. Anyone can even dive deeper into the poems and information presented in the interchapters.
So Heaven serves as an ode to books and reading. Book lovers will appreciate the many references to the significance of literature in our lives.
I am looking forward to dissect this book more through our #AkdangPinoy buddy read. I find it refreshing to read from a literary critic and a professor emeritus of literature, no less.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Addiction, Suicidal thoughts