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Summary: A Different Version of the Afterlife
Review: This is the first book by Dr. Peck that I have read, although I have heard of his other books. This is a work of fiction, of Dr. Peck's "imaginary" version of what he thinks the afterlife could be like. I find it hard to objective for the review of this book, as I have read so many books on NDE's and OBE's, that when I finished reading this book, it paled in comparison to the other books that I have read. Dr. Peck's story revolves around Dr. Daniel Turpin, a psychiatrist, who lies dying from lung cancer with his two children around him. Daniel is able to feel himself leave his body and knows that he has died. While in "heaven" Daniel encounters other spirits, some in purgatory and some in hell. The allegorical "hell" was quite amusing for those souls depicted living in the bottom of trash can, working for Amalgamated Systems!! Daniel is also able to go back to earth to "check-up" on his children and to visit his former residence that he once shared with his beloved wife. Greeters help Daniel with his adjustment to the afterlife and he learns that he cannot interfere with earthly doings, yet he does have freedom of choice. We experience Daniel's partial review of his life and his thirst to serve God. The Greeters inform Daniel that there are many committees in heaven, if he so wishes to serve. As Daniel comes to terms with the afterlife and his comfort level takes him out of his paradigm, he becomes adventurous and wants to see and experience more. Even though this is a novel, with all of the information in print and in video of true experiences of the afterlife, this story seemed almost "clinical" to me. It was a very simple story, not at all colorful, and at times boring. Also, when Dr. Peck described Daniel meeting his wife and another son, those meetings, to me, were portrayed as cold, and not at all loving or warm. This lack of love and warmth really bothered me. Dr. Peck's allegorical view was very different, yet he does leave the reader thinking and asking questions. I think also, that readers have to keep in mind that this is a work of fiction. Dr. Peck does portray love and compassion in the afterlife, with Greeters and others who do assist those souls who are having a hard time adjusting. The patience and love do shine through from those assisting. This is one of those books where one will either really like it or they won't. It is not a terrible book, just very different with a lack of warmth.
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