My old roommate gave this to me to read. She said she reread it every year, and after reading it in all of 2 days, I can see why. I was laughing and crying and wishing that it were a true story. Coming from someone who has no use for any religion, let alone Christianity, this book would bring me get me to church in a heartbeat. I hear people speaking about how they love Jesus, well if Ilona were my savior, I could honestly say I would love her just as much. This was positively a wonderful book that I recommend to everyone.
The BIBLE as it should be!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
The most charming book you're ever likely to read. I found myself laughing out loud, yet crying in spots. I love Ilona. I want her as my savior...that would get this ex-Catholic back to church. It's the sort of book you almost wish you hadn't read yet, so you can discover it all over again, and re-experience the joy of reading it for the first time. Find this book! Savor it! I mean, really, the world savior as a Replacements fan. Can it get any better than that?
Hindsight is 20/20
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
I received this book as a gift many moons ago, when I lived in New Haven. It is one of my absolute favorites. Hopefully some day soon I can purchase copies to share with others. If only I had known then...... Patiently waiting for the movie.
Theology, Satire, and Likeable Characters: A Good Combo
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
THE SECOND GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD ever told reflects the religious sensibilities of its author and of a lot of Americans, and I found it to resound well with my own moral framework. At the same time, it is a well-written, amusing satire of American society's reaction to celebrity, one that has a certain timelessness to it; I was surprised to discover when it was originally published, for it has the feel of being set in the present; the timelessness is the sign of a good author.
Second Greatest... Shoots High, Hits Mark
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
In Bechard's first book (as well as in the similar follow-up, Balls), he turns our understanding of gender politics upside-down. By placing women in positions previously unfamilar to us and them, he has created an often funny (and sad) look at the world we live in. Ilona, the daughter of God, is the most refreshing character in recent fiction memory; only the most jaded person would not root for her. This breezy satire never fails to make the reader laugh, think and, more importantly, feel. Although difficult to locate because of its "out of stock indefinitely" status, this is one book that is well worth the extra effort to find. Bravo, Mr. Bechard. I impatiently await your next novel.
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