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ISBN Tektime

Price $17.68 (USD) Paperback, $9.99 Kindle edition

Author interview

Maxson’s intriguing latest novel offers a satirical take on religion and politics, taking readers on a group of barnyard animals’ journey to freedom. The story begins with a group of animals on an Israeli farm, including Julius the witty and irreligious parrot and Mel the mule who leads them towards faith. After being bought by American evangelical ministers, the animals are taken to Kansas for constant church sermons and circus scenes. But their tolerance has limits. Will they find the courage to revolt against their oppressive environment? Maxson uses Julius’s story as a vehicle for exploring deeper themes such as freedom of expression and the dangers of religious extremism. By satirizing the entanglement of religion and politics, he compels readers to ponder on the consequences of this alliance and the rise of white Christian nationalism. Through subtle exaggerations and ironic twists, the story uncovers the absurdities and contradictions surrounding American evangelicalism and its impact on society. The novel’s satirical lens mirrors human tendencies, highlighting our propensity to uncritically follow and obey authority.  It serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that even in our contemporary society, we remain vulnerable to embracing inflexible ideologies and traditions.

A masterful blend of humor, social critique, and imaginative storytelling that offers a nuanced examination of faith’s role in politics and warns against the perils of extremist ideologies.

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