There I was, poking around one of my favorite YouTube channels, when I saw this video. “Hmm,” I said to myself, “Full audiobook? That implies the existence of a non-audiobook of same.” So I went to Amazon and, behold, there it was.
So, what is The Fall of Alla Xul? Well, it’s presented as a translation of ancient Sumerian tablets recounting the epic quest of Atun-Shei to topple the evil Emperor Alla Xul. The preface includes a whole summary of how the tablets were found, and various scholarly interpretations of them. These interpretations are referenced throughout the book in footnotes as well.
Except… well, you know, my favorite short story of all time is The Repairer of Reputations. I’m a big fan of stories where all is not what it seems. There are layers to this story, and half the fun is in seeing how many different elements have been woven together to make this narrative enjoyable.
Oh, and the titular fall of Alla Xul? Well, that particular scene evoked something else for me, something not out of Sumerian legend at all. But I don’t want to say what it was. Read it yourself, and see if it conjures up any memories for you. I think it’s a clever reference to… something. But then again, it may be just the universal tropes of Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey.
All in all, this is a very fun, fast read that will be particularly entertaining for anyone who enjoys scholarly takes on ancient legends, stories-within-stories, and generally weird, esoteric tales. I recommend it. I also recommend checking out that YouTube channel linked above, particularly if you’re into history and/or film.
Well, I’m intrigued for sure!
Thanks! It’s an interesting read, for sure. 🙂
Well, as I definitely enjoy “scholarly takes on ancient legends, stories-within-stories, and generally weird, esoteric tales”, I’m off to get this! The YT channel looks fun, shall give it a look-see too 😊 Thanks!
I’ll be curious to hear what you think! 🙂
This one looks interesting. I already enjoyed your suggestion of “Ocean Echoes”, and this one might be up my alley.
I think you might like it. And I’m really glad you enjoyed “Ocean Echoes.” 🙂
Oh, BTW, if you do happen to check out the author’s YouTube channel… just be forewarned he’s a big Civil War buff. And while I enjoy his videos, he has certain biases, as I guess every historian does.
What I’m really saying is, I think you might not want to watch his video about Gen. Sherman…
Well now I have to check this out at least lol. I love hot takes on the Civil War.
😀 I think you’ll find it interesting.
Lol, probably nooooooot
-grin- you’ve definitely piqued my interest. Will be checking this one out. 🙂
I hope you like it! 🙂
lol – it is going on my TBR, Berthold. 4th in line. 🙂
What an interesting review. Intriguing without giving anything away. Thanks for sharing your recommendation. 🙂
You’re welcome. 🙂