Writing a realistic account of Jesus' life proves a basis for a profound skepticism regarding a moral account of God. Saramago pursues Jesus' promised suffering with an eye toward God's justification and finds his answer in a God wanting to expand his reign. This proves too much even for the devil. Overall, this is an interesting, captivating book that raises deep questions regarding morality, religion, belief and nature. One of the books that one carries in one's mind for decades.
