Before I moved out to San Francisco, I typically read trashy romance and chick-lit style books. Then I moved out here and realized those kind of books aren't necessarily deemed "cool" enough to read out in public. Keep in mind that I read when I ride the bus to/from work and this was also pre-Kindle so all books are displayed loud and proud. Because I didn't really want to display my bodice-ripping book cover on the bus and feel the weight of people silently judging me (and I know they were bc I was silently judging them for their book choices) I switched up what kind of books I was reading.
So as soon as I got settled in the city I found a used bookstore. For some reason I really remember everything about walking into this bookstore for the first time, it was rainy and foggy, reeked of incense, and the guy behind the counter was an old man with tie-dyed hair. AND THE BOOKS WERE AMAZING. It was the perfect mix of girly books, thrillers, "smart" books, historical fiction, travel books, self-help, etc. They had enough of a selection where I didn't feel overwhelmed or that I was seeing the same thing over and over.
(SIDE NOTE: The guy who worked here was so pleasant. He always remembered me and asked how I was doing and how I was getting used to the city. I think that's what kept me going back. The book store closed down about a year ago and now I have to go to an equally wonderful place that is waaaay far away if I want my used bookstore fix.)
Anyways, it was here I found my favorite book of all time...and subsequently, one of my favorite authors - who is actually based out of the Bay Area.
Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal by Christopher Moore
This is the story of Jesus as told by the 13th disciple, Biff. (Please don't think that this mocks the story of Jesus, because it absolutely does not.) Biff is Jesus' best friend from childhood and is rude, crude, and says everything that you imagine Jesus would have said, but was too polite not to. Biff tells us the story of Jesus, or as he called him "Josh." More specifically, his story fills in the 30 year gap that the Gospels does not cover...what Jesus was like as he grew up. I think of it as a light-hearted coming of age story for Jesus. The result is very funny, clever, and original book. Whenever anyone asks me for a book recommendation, this is always one of my tops.
Rank: A+++
I too really enjoyed this book, it is rare to read a book that makes me laugh out loud. In no way is it disrespectful and everyone should have Biff as a best friend.
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