cover image Dirk Quigby’s Guide to the Afterlife

Dirk Quigby’s Guide to the Afterlife

E.E. King, Exterminating Angel (Consortium, dist.), $15 paper (240p) ISBN 978-1-935259-08-4

This ecumenically snarky review of postlife paradises spares no religion—large (Roman Catholicism) or small (Zoroastrianism), venerable (ancient Greek) or modern (Scientology)—in its attempts to rate their various comforts and costs. Wrapped in a slight frame story about an underpaid ad writer trying to stem the flow of souls to overcrowded Hell, the individual assessments include thoughtful descriptions of each “end destination,” background information on theology, and five-star ratings of perks, food, drink, music, accommodations, and ease of entry. Even top-rated afterlives get some pointed comments: Islam’s Paradise is helpfully given three stars “(For men only),” and the Baha’i faith is summarized: “If you’re a Star Trek fan and like the Federation, this is the religion for you!” Not for the easily offended of any faith. (Oct.)