
I was about to pass on this book, but I noticed all the beautiful artwork it contained and though to myself, “why not give it a try . . . at the very least it has a bunch of great art?!”
First, I need to mention that the layout and design of the physical book is gorgeous. The cover design, the folded interior flaps, the thickness of the pages, the texture of the pages, the layout of the text, the abundant artwork, the chapter headings and even the page numbers all contribute to making this book one of the most aesthetically pleasing titles I’ve ever held in my hands.
Next, I have to confess that although I am not particularly fond of the genre, The Last Tower was an enjoyable and engaging read. Using the Genesis story of the “Tower of Babel” as a metaphor for a united humanity’s lust for power, the friends engage in a thought-exercise about a variety of topics (in reference to the possibility of a dubious single-world government) including fiscal irresponsibility, resources, power, control, human nature, God, Truth, and business.
The book dips into conspiracy theory from time to time, but then pulls right out of it again. I don’t think at its heart The Last Tower is a book foretelling of an immanent New World Order, but rather a book that challenges our single-minded, self-important, self-serving worldview. In fact, the epilogue of the book consists of a series of questions, each printed on its own page with corresponding illustration, which are very poignant questions about life, God and the human condition.
The Last Tower is not without its drawbacks. As already mentioned the narrative structure is only a façade for the ideas. (Fortunately the book is a short read and I finished it in two sittings). Additionally, some of the conspiratorial content tends to overshadow the larger questions of family and community.
The book, however, is a solid read for individuals looking to explore some of the big, global questions that we are often too afraid to ask . . . or perhaps never think to ask.
Rating: 4/5 Stars (I really liked it)
The Last Tower is written by Brian Oxley and is illustrated by Tim Ladwig and Chris Koelle (epilogue). It is published by OxVision Books. Find it here on Amazon.