Few writers command as much attention in popular spirituality as the best-selling Chopra (Spiritual Solutions). This title, unusual for him, alternates fiction with reflection, examining the likes of Job, Socrates, Paul, Rumi, Anne Hutchinson, the Baal Shem Tov, and Rabindranath Tagore, scrutinizing their experiences for increasing our understanding of God. This work should be understood not as historical fiction, but as something more like allegory, and it is written with a care and vigor unusual for the often slapdash Chopra. VERDICT Using fictional narrative and the lessons of real lives as teaching tools, Chopra draws touching and intriguing conclusions; a must for Chopra's fans, and an excellent book for the general spiritual reader.