Rating: 3/5 cunning retorts
Author: Richard Dawkins
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A Devil's Chaplain is an excellent collection of Dawkin's writings and provides a well-rounded illustration of his personal and professional interactions. Ranging from a eulogy for the late Douglas Adams to forwards for books and personal correspondence with his colleagues, the text provides an intriguing glimpse into some of the more interesting corners of a storied academic's body of work.
Dawkins is first and foremost a great scientific mind, but it is in his circle of colleagues and friends that I find a great deal of his personality laid bare. His interactions illustrate the reasoning behind Dawkin's rise to the forefront of personalities which define the small number of people who are trusted with leading a post-religious movement in the western world. Perhaps not to the degree of Hitchens, but certainly apparent, is Dawkin's knack for capturing and summarizing complex and nuanced ideas and presenting them in a way that is both approachable and comprehensive. I have always admired Dawkin's work, but this text creates an appreciation for the man behind that work as well.
It could be said that the collection of writings in this text are somewhat unfocused. They meander from topic to topic, so varied that they seem almost random. I think this is a reflection of the breadth of personality that defines a modern renaissance man, as Dawkins could be considered. I appreciated the book because I was already a fan, but I fear that others who are less familiar may struggle to find the interest. The book is very good, and a must read for any Dawkins fan, but I think it falls somewhat short for the average reader. A great book for the right reader, but simply an interesting read for others.