By God: The Making of a Messiah by Shashi Warrier [Paperback]

The Making of a Messiah is a satirical novel that follows Alkanza, the Prophet of a utopian island called Ghublistan, and his custodian, Tomikanza, as they embark on a journey to understand the surge in emigration from their content society. Commanded by the Prophet, Tomikanza, along with his unfaithful barber Neepane, travels to a democracy that blends religious rule with self-governance. Their journey through a republic marked by flawed policemen, bumbling spies, and corrupt politicians offers a humorous yet insightful critique of the intersection between religion and politics, exposing hypocrisy, duplicity, and the flaws within such systems. This novel is ideal for readers who enjoy humor and wit, with an underlying social critique that explores the complexities of politics, religion, and society.