Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah

Both Richard and Don are characterized as average American men. How does this influence the themes and philosophies of the novel?

What motivates Don to say what he knows? Why is it important for both messiahs to tell their truths and teachings?

Don uses the technology of his time to blend magic and realism. What aspects of aviation technology facilitate its comparison to the magical or divine? What are some examples of today’s technology that blur the line between magic and realism? How does this influence the way people use them?

Is Don a real person in the novel, or is he an allegory Richard creates through his desire to be enlightened? Use evidence from the text in your response.

What is the function of the Messiah’s Handbook? Why is Richard initially more engaged with the text than with his teacher? What does the final message of the handbook mean?

Don often references the law of attraction, or like attracts like, when explaining why certain people and things come into Richard’s life. Compare Don’s version of the law of attraction to The Secret (2006) by Rhonda Byrne or another work about creating happiness in one’s life. How are these theories the same, and how do they differ?

What role does foreshadowing play in creating the tone of this novel? Choose another literary device, such as voice, atmosphere, or imagery, and explain how it contributes to this tone. Use examples from the text to support your response.

Is Richard a teacher, or simply a student? What does Richard learn through the act of instruction, and how does Don benefit from Richard’s teaching?