Book Review: Tales from the Other Side by Paul Corson

Paul Corson’s “Tales from the Other Side” was designed as a companion piece to “Regaining Paradise: Forming a New Worldview, Knowing God, and Journeying into Eternity.” While the books are strong enough to stand as standalone readings, when taken together their message is raised to the next level.

But first of all, a few words about “Regain Paradise”. This daring book goes beyond the curtain of materiality to address some of the biggest existential questions drawing on personal experience, science, and rationality/logic, sprinkled with a little imagination. Although the spark of this intellectual and spiritual search is found in the three transcendental experiences lived by the author, he relies heavily on science to argue his perspective.

In “Tales from the Other Side,” Paul Corson delves into his personal life, revealing instances where the “Other Side” seeped into this side. These confessions and stories will allow the reader to take a more holistic view of the thought process of his spiritual journey. The book is segmented into seven magical parts, five of which are autobiographical, the next part is a rather unusual conversation (between space travelers and stargazers), and the last part consists of fictional stories that form allegories.

The autobiographical parts present a seemingly unconnected series of facts gleaned from different periods of Paul Corson’s life. But these puzzle pieces fit into the overall pattern of a larger plan. These simple, everyday stories, with all-too-familiar “characters,” often defy expectation and explanation. Some events will give you goosebumps, others can be hilarious… but taken together, they accomplish two essential things: 1) provoke questions and curiosity, and 2) draw attention to small good deeds. In my opinion, this is the greatest achievement of the book, to make the reader reflect on spiritual matters, but also to encourage by example to do any and all good deeds, no matter how trivial they may seem.

The seventh part is also of particular interest, since the two mystical allegories are markedly different from the previous parts of the book. The first story follows the restart of civilization and its possible downfall. It is a revealing narrative about human nature and its dual potential for good and evil. The second story is a science fiction tale, revolving around a sentient planet, space travel, and telepathic communication. Paul Corson introduces us to probably the two most important events in the life of this lonely planet, a first visit by space travelers, which opens a brilliant new chapter for it; and a second visit from a more familiar planet, which could threaten to close that chapter.

All in all, “Tales from the Other Side” is a quick and easy read that (hopefully) leaves a lasting mark. The author does not try to mesmerize the reader with fanciful linguistic or aesthetic feats, but rather addresses the message directly and frankly. Maybe that’s why he hits harder.