11. Lamb

Ever wonder what Jesus was like growing up? Well, this probably isn't it. But it's a hilarious version as told by his lifelong best friend Biff. Yes, Biff (also the Hebrew word for 'a slap across the back of the head', allegedly). This story is Biff's gospel, and recounts the 25 years the inseparable pair spent together.

From a morality standpoint, Biff and Joshua (aka Jesus) have little in common. This works in Josh's favor, as he is able to learn about sin without actually committing any; Biff, on the other hand, is usually more than willing. It's through these vicarious experiences that Josh is able to relate to the underlying forces that drive sin and temptation. But despite the potentially heavy subject matter, the humor is sharp and keeps the story relatively light:

(on the topic of Kama Sutra)
Biff: "Josh are you sure it doesn't bother you talking about this stuff when you will never be allowed to do it?"
Josh: "No it's interesting. It doesn’t bother you when I talk about heaven does it?"
Biff: "Should it?"
Josh: "Look! A Seagull!"

The two spend most of their lives traveling the known world, seeking out each of the three wise men and their individual spiritual virtues, so that Josh can figure out not just how to be the messiah, but what to do with that responsibility. The combination of the Josh's sanctity and Biff's utter humanity offers a dialogue that creates a more complete picture of both the good and sinister sides of human nature.

A college friend recommended this book several years ago, and I'm now on copy #4 (I lend it out often - it doesn't always come back. C'est la vie...). I don't know anyone who has taken offense to the story or the portrayal of a funny, curious Jesus, but I suppose there's always a chance. Christopher Moore is absolutely a satirist, and though the text is littered with profanity and the occasional debauchery, there is no sense of blasphemy or real criticism of religion. Only a humorous, thought-provoking, and often touching story of two best friends with one great task.