The God Box

Barry B. Longyear

Save:

Find on Amazon

unique concept of a god box

humorous writing style

fantastical journey

engaging first person narrative

thought provoking

characters with charm and cunning

energetic pacing

exploration of addiction

rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes

emotional depth

standalone fantasy novel

multiple realities

vivid fantasy genre

The God Box by Barry B. Longyear is a unique and original fantasy novel that follows the protagonist, Korvas, a likable rug merchant on a quest that is more about the journey to the heart than a physical adventure. The story is filled with elements of adventure, humor, and thought-provoking themes, revolving around the concept of the god box, where one can ask for what they need and give away what they don't want. The narrative style, presented in first person by Korvas himself, is engaging, funny, and deeply touching, making the book a refreshing and vivid read in the fantasy genre.

Characters:

Korvas is a central character with a mix of charm and cunning, supported by a cast that adds depth to the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is humorous and engaging, presented through the first-person narrative, combining levity with deeper themes of addiction and inner growth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around Korvas, a rug merchant on a fantastical journey shaped by a unique inheritance and the central concept of a God Box, depicting both adventure and emotional depth.

Setting:

The setting features a rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes, contributing to the story's fantastical elements and adventurous spirit.

Pacing:

The pacing is energetic and engaging, though it can become confusing at times due to multiple realities and complex storylines.

My story does not start very long ago. I was then, as you see me now, a handsome figure of a man. From inclination, rather than necessity, I was always interested in the possibility of learning more e...

Notes:

The God Box is a fantasy novel by Barry B. Longyear.

The main character, Korvas, is a rug merchant and a former crooked seller.

The story is filled with adventure, humor, and emotional depth.

It features the concept of a 'god box' which helps with coping with fear and emotional pain.

Readers have found the god box idea to be a useful tool for managing stress.

The book is shorter than many other modern fantasy novels, making it more accessible.

The narrative is told in the first person by Korvas, creating an engaging experience.

The story involves themes of addiction and recovery, influenced by Longyear's own struggles.

The book combines elements of humor and profundity, making it a unique read.

It was hard to find for a time but is now back in print, although only in paperback.

Several readers note the book's casual attitude towards sex as somewhat troubling.

The book has a whimsical, intricate plot that involves alternate realities and a pantheon of gods.

It encourages readers to reflect on the difference between what we want and what we truly need.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of addiction and emotional distress, which may be sensitive topics for some readers.

From The Publisher:

In the in the exotic city of Iskandar, a somewhat dishonest carpet merchant in the bazaar named Korvas, on the run from the King's Guard for selling phony flying carpets, inherits a strange little box in the shape of a cask with four drawers. The magic in this box is that it will always give Korvas anything he needs, which is not necessarily what he wants, although at times the box will give him what he wants just to show him he didn't need it, which information is what he needed at the time. A strange, humorous and lusty, and at times profound spiritual journey.

Ratings (2)

Loved It (1)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (11):

Read It (2)
Want To Read (6)
Not Interested (3)

What can you read after
The God Box?

See the list (100 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.