Movement. A Novel
(Click
here for the web version or
email me with Novel Request in the subject line for a Word copy)
[Ed. Note: I've shortened this explanation, mostly because someone said I talk too damn much. Point taken.]
So I wrote a book. So I want people to read it. So the traditional process was driving me up the wall and I need to move on. So I decided to let go and let Web.
A word about the book. Movement started as a short story back in 1993. I decided to make it a novel at some point and basically partied away the next few years and did a good deal of research on the historical Jesus, the Dead Sea Scrolls and the settlement of Qumran. Finally, I figured going to grad school would be the surest way to force me into writing the damn thing. And it worked... to a certain extent. The version I'm making available now is a good deal different than what I turned into my thesis committee (and hopefully a good deal stronger).
The premise is this: Mary and Joseph are brought together in Qumran to produce a child that will unite the lines of King David and Aaron, the first priest. This is to be a political Messiah to reunite the 12 tribes, reclaim the throne from Herod and oust Rome. Of course, we all know that it doesn't quite end that way, but even from the start, this movement runs into serious snags. Movement is told, first and foremost by Mary, with alternating chapters narrated by characters we've heard of, but not necessarily from: Mary's mother, Joseph, the Three Wise Men, John the Baptist, Lazarus, Judas, Pontius Pilate and others.
There is no religion, mysticism or miraculous here. Only people, trying to scratch out a place for themselves.
And that's it. You might think you know the story, but don't be so sure.
That said, I figure with every subsequent Jesus-related book and movie coming out and me not getting any younger, I'd just make this available to whoever wants to read it.
So enjoy. And, as always, feedback is welcome. Especially feedback from people who actually read the book.
Ken Wheaton
February 11, 2004
