I like to buy books in batches of 5-6 so that I always have something to read at home. And it so happened that in my last purchase there were two books suitable for mentioning here. Namely, those where themes of self-development, psychology, and philosophy are woven into the fictional plot.

Today about the book by Laurent Gounelle "God Always Travels Incognito". There are no religious references in the book, so don't be scared by the title. The novel conveys the idea that if "God" does interfere in our lives, he does so covertly, through chance meetings, events, and people, remaining unnoticed. But who the author "appointed" as God—everyone will have their own guesses.

The hero Alan makes a deal with a stranger and undertakes to complete all the tasks that the stranger gives him. Through these tasks, the author guides the reader through key themes: responsibility for one's life, fear of change, self-doubt, the habit of enduring and settling for less (including job dissatisfaction).

At times, the plot sparks interest and makes you think about some internal questions:
✔️What "tasks" have I been putting off for years because it's uncomfortable, scary, or I don't have time?
✔️In what situations do I endure, underestimate myself, pretend everything is fine?
✔️What does it mean for me in practice to "take life into my own hands" rather than wait for a mysterious savior?

In terms of literary language and depth of characters, the book is average for me. But as an entry into the topic of personal growth and a reason to think about one's behavior patterns, it's quite a working story! It's no coincidence that the author, a specialist in personality development psychology, consciously creates works that are easy and interesting to read, without moralizing or instructive facts.

If you've already read it, share what thoughts the novel prompted in you?

#to_think_about