Notes from the Edge Times

Pinchbeck's newest is a collection of essays about the transitional period in which the world currently finds itself. Looking at environmental issues like climate change, food shortages, and natural disasters, as well as the recent economic collapse, Pinchbeck returns to themes from his last book (2012: The Return of Quetzalcoatl), focusing on the need for a new spiritual paradigm and practical structure for human civilization if we are to survive. He cites limited amounts of economic data, most of it at an anecdotal or survey level, and focuses a great deal on paranormal speculation and theories that won't convince skeptics that Pinchbeck is anything but a raving conspiracy theorist. While the author's quiet openness to being wrong is a refreshing trait in extreme believers of any stripe, it won't be enough to assure new readers that Pinchbeck has any answers (or even substantial ideas); rather, readers will likely find Pinchbeck yet another person claiming in his own way that the world is on a one-way course towards imminent self-immolation. Fans of his previous books may find this welcome and refreshing, but those unfamiliar won't find this a book of note. (Oct.)