Godless by Pete Hautman Fiction, religion, agnosticism,
imagination, family and peer
relationships

A teenage boy who is "coming-of-age" through his own doubts of his parents' catholic traditions; a typical theme, to say the least. But Pete Hautman brilliantly spins this teenage theme by substituting Catholicism with Chutengodianism - founded by the great Kahunaness himself, Jason, who is the same, "typical" coming-of-age teenager. This novel, as narrated by Jason, immerses the reader into the free, wild, and imaginative mind of teenagers who are searching for answers while looking for a good time. Jason decides to form his own religion after getting punched in the face by the school bully/future High Priest of the Chutengodians, and staring up into the sky only to meet the brilliance and majesty of the the town's water tower. With his nerd and insecure friend Shin, Jason sets out to form a new religion by worshiping the water tower, recruiting members, and making commandments. Outrageous practices and meetings are held, which Jason sees handles well until they find themselves on top of the water tower. Further tension arises when Jason's differing members' opinions begin to create tension and sects. With these problems, Jason learns responsibility and the freedom that believers in a true god enjoy as the worship and live happily with faith.

This book reminded me a little of Running Loose because of the teenage boy who does some crazy things in the name of doubting and rebellion. But instead of sports, its religion. A girl complicates the life of Jason, but he still continues running his mouth in his home, at the teenage-catholic meetings, and with other adults. This novel depicted so well a teenage boy's life as he looks for truth, which he does not believe comes from his parents catholic traditions. Interestingly, the novel plays with Jason's dad, mostly, who also seems to "come-of-age" as he finally allows Jason to worship however pleases him, seeing that Jason is an independent and genuine boy looking for something that he has not yet found. I would recommend this book to any 6th grader and above teenager. Funny and great read!