Isis Aquarian

I've been on sort of a cult binge, and this particular book really stood out. For one thing, it comes with a CD, so you can check out the psychedelic stylings of the Source musicians and listen in on a morning speech delivered by Father Yod himself. It also comes with recipes, including a really amazing-sounding cheesecake. So top marks for packaging. I also really enjoyed the way the story was put together - lots of photos, lots of personal narratives from various group members, and even some seriously dissenting viewpoints from former members. It felt really well-rounded and fair, even though the author is clearly still really into the Source thing herself. And the story itself is fascinating - how Jim Baker, a former bank robber who killed two men with his bare hands, became transformed into 'Father Yod', a health food, tantric sex, and yoga guru with a large and devoted following. Even more fascinating is Baker's apparent sincerity throughout. What a trip.… (altro)

...though I will explain myself here on the whole “Jesus Freak cult” comments and how, while they were flippant, they are apt and not necessarily insults, the reason I found this book fascinating is that as a person who is, for the most part, utterly faithless, I found myself deeply interested in the people created a life as Father Yod’s acolytes. As I read, I felt a strange feeling that I can only assume is akin to longing, a sense that my faithlessness costs me dearly, though ultimately there is not a damn thing I can do about it. I will, however, be brutally honest that I did not listen to the CD that comes with the book. Largely, the music Ya Ho Wa 13 created, as well as the voices of Father Yod’s followers, didn’t interest me that much, but the fact is, this is a very pretty, interactive book, with tons of pictures of intensely attractive people from the early 70s. Those looking for a very immersive experience will find much to love in this book. As I was writing this discussion, Mr. Oddbooks picked up the book and began flipping through it and remarked that it was one of those books that is as much art as it is a conveyance of words and information. Read my entire review here: http://ireadoddbooks.com/the-source-by-isis-and-electricity-aquarian/… (altro)