John Christian

The Way to Kialo: a fictional analysis of delusion - The Kialo Trilogy John Christian

The Way to Kialo is the first book of a trilogy that deals with the subject of deconversion from harmful beliefs. Axel lives in Widdendream, a land steeped in religious rituals. He is a highly respected Advocate for the Defense of the Faith. But he has come to a point of disbelief that he can no longer hide. Once it is discovered that he is an apostate, his life undergoes major difficulties. His family disowns him. His fiancé leaves him. He is fired from his job and is stripped of all his credentials. And finally, he is evicted from his home. This is when he meets Barnabas, an older gentleman who roams throughout all the lands helping those who want to rid themselves of delusion. He tells Axel of a place, far away, called Kialo. It is a place that is run according to reason and not metaphysics or superstitions. He points out Kialo's 'everglow' to Axel, which can be seen far in the distance. Barnabas says that the only means by which to get to Kialo is by following a path called The Way. Axel leaves behind the only life he has known and does as Barnabas suggests. He follows The Way, and meets some very interesting people, including his old friend, Caleb, who is also going to Kialo. They soon meet Edwin from Pandora and later on they come across a confused individual called Rupert. Eventually, all four of them make it to Kialo. But not before they have to go through the most difficult test of their lives.