The God Box

The types of sci-fi/fantasy that I like generally don't focus too much in the details of technology or magic, but rather use it as a tool for explaining some more complex concept. This is one of those books. Masterfully written, it is a complex thinking-person's book that I'm very glad to see back in print!

One of my favorite fantasy books of all time. Good for a read two or three times a year. Really makes you think about how you approach your life. The main character is a devious but good-hearted merchant, swept into a progressively more dangerous exploits by an unassuming little box - the god box.Charming, smart and convoluted. And out-of-print. I loaned my copy to someone who hasn't seen fit to return it. (and if I remember who, I'll pummel their pointy head - I want it BACK!)

Barry Longyear can be serious or funny and in this wonderful fantasy book he is both. The trials and tribulations of the main character, Korvas, as he deals with every fantasy contrivance from magicians to godesses to monsters to armies had me laughing and crying. Through it all Korvas is master of the God Box, which gives him everything he needs, whether or not it is something he wants.I loved this book and I reread it every so often. Hidden in the narrative are endless truths about real life in this non-fantasy world. A similar book, although much darker and violent, might be Longyear's Infinity Hold. Otherwise, I have never read anything like it.

A really nice, intricate tale that reminds its readers of the miracles that happen all around them but they never acknowledge. What you most need is not necessarily what you most want.