Jacob's Cauldron

Apocalyptic literature is nothing new, but it has been sadly neglected in American literature. Recently, whether prompted by religious feelings, turn-of-the-millennia dread, and/or the Holy Spirit itself, we've been pleased to see a (comparative) resurgence of this ancient tradition. The closest we had to it for generations was the rise (and fall?) of science fiction, where it took a turn into dystopia and called itself cyberpunk for awhile. And of course, anything Kirbyesque in comics.Enough of that. This is no essay; this is a review of an apocalyptic series which has only begun to find its audience. We've only seen the first two (I want more!): Ephraim's Seed and Jacob's Cauldron. As in a popular (and sensationalistic) Protestant series' milieu, there is a wicked one world government (with the deliciously punstered name of United World Economic Order, or UWEN), an underground movement, and betrayals. There is mysticism, evil, good, and all the blends of good, evil, and apathy inherent in humans. And there is the strong running premise that humans remain a vital part of this scenario. God may be in charge, but he involves Ben, Peg, Alex, Moira, and all their buddies in the decision-making processes, enlightenment, and actual procedure. (I can't believe I wrote that sentence! Doesn't it read like an annual performance review?) In one respect, this brings more tension to the novels; any one of the characters can change, be hurt, or die - there is no feeling that any of the characters are safe.The difference between the two series really points out an interesting difference between Protestantism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The popular (lots of explosions) series, after initial intense despair at being "left behind," becomes a story about retribution. Pam Blackwell's Millennial Series, amidst a series of Fugitive-like escapes, is mainly about building and growing. Building and growing is much nicer and certainly more Christian - but explosions and action sequences will always sell better.Therefore, I strongly urge all Christians (LDS or otherwise) to buy, read, and support Pam Blackwell's series. Not only is this the best researched "future history" scenario I have ever read, not only will it give good counsel for those who find themselves living in the future -- it is entirely applicable to our troubles of today. Buy copies for yourself and give copies to friends, neighbors, and relatives. I desperately want this to be a best-seller.Because I can't wait to find out what happens next!

I enjoyed this book as well as Pam Blackwell's first offering Ephriam's Seed. I just wish it had not been such a long wait between the books. She continues the storyline begun in the first book and one comes to understand the people involved better. It gave me a lot to think about like what my reactions to such events would be. I can't wait for the next book.