THE SATANIC VERSES BY SALMAN RUSHDIE

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True, Rushdie does tackle many complex issues in this epic novel, such as religion, relationships and race. But don't let the controversy surrounding the author and his work detract from the novel's merit. Rushdie proves himself to be a highly gifted storyteller by weaving these many elements together into a colossal, yet entertaining, story filled with engaging characters and bizarre, intertwining plotlines.

Sex? It's there, and so are comedy and tragedy. Blasphemy? Well, I didn't consider the novel blasphemous, but what do I know? I'm not a Muslim fundamentalist. What I do know is that Rushdie beautifully juxtaposes decadent modern characters and their lives (read: Indian movie actors and their families plus their European husbands, wives and lovers) with myth and religion of every sort. In fact, many characters share names with religious figures, thus Rushdie is implying that figures in the Koran were often only human and even comic.

Admittedly, I first read this book for a class. But I recommend that everyone read The Satanic Verses independently, and I myself certainly look forward to the time in which I may re-read it at my leisure. ($14)

-- Marty Beard, Editor in Chief

This item appeared in the Features section of the December 6, 1996 issue.

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