Fiction Review

The Songs of Galileo: Book 1: Voice of God
by M. T. Jones
ISBN-10: 1598001949
Review by Heather Froeschl

In these days of religious and cultural intolerance the world might benefit from some guidance. What is the answer to world peace? Angel Waters is about to tell us. Angel is the lead singer in a contemporary Christian band and he is going to spread the word. But it isn't what you might think. Angel's message is about tolerance for other religions, doing unto others as you would have them do unto you, banishing prejudices and loving one another. The band he is with isn't all that thrilled, and they become downright irrational when Angel reveals that God communicates with him - making him God's newest messenger.
Angel is brought up in a fundamentalist Christian foster home. He has no clue what other religions offer and is not even allowed to listen to rock music. But when his high school music teacher sees in him a raw talent for singing, he discovers a whole new world. Creating a garage band is the first step, being recruited by a bigger band and going on tour is the second. Along the way, Angel finds peace of mind in Tae Kwon Do, love in his high school sweetheart, and a maturity beyond his years. But when God starts communicating with him, instilling knowledge and messages He wants revealed, things get a little wild for Angel. Will he be able to continue to reach the masses through his songs?

The religious Right do not want to hear that God is speaking to a teenaged boy...especially one of mixed race. Fundamentalists go crazy with accusations and even his own band thinks he is schizophrenic instead of blessed. Is the world ready to learn that traditional beliefs are mostly wrong? Are we ready to listen to the latest messages from God?

Author M.T. Jones offers a novel idea...tolerance for differences. Spoken through the mouth of Angel Waters, there are some wonderful points made in this book. Of course not everyone will think they are wonderful and some readers will react the same way that some of the minor characters in the book do. In today's crazy world, words of guidance in the way of tolerance are just what we all need. Sheryl Crow, with her new song "Letters to God," seems to think so too. "Voice of God," Book 1 in The Songs of Galileo trilogy is a strong message in fictional form. Well written and full of plot and passion, it is sure to become a hit. This could easily become a movie - although a controversial one. Personally, I would love to see it. I look forward to the next installments of Angel's life.