Author:Rene Weis
In the 13th century, a group of heretics in southwest France, the Cathars, became a serious threat to the Catholic church. In several waves of repression, thousands of Cathars were killed. Yet so ardent was their faith that, early in the next century, the Cathars rose one last time. Using the breathtakingly detailed and uniquely extant documentation from this period, and drawing on his intimate knowledge of the last Cathars' tracks and hiding places, many of which survive to this day, René Weis tells the full story of this gripping historical episode.
Gould is at his brilliant best... A truly convincing performance
—— GuardianConvincingly argued and thought provoking-Gould must rank as one of the leading scientific essayists of his generation and, as ever, he is in total command of his subject matter. He steers a deft route through contentious waters, but manages to retain a humorous edge, that keeps the book both engaging and highly entertaining. Gould provides the literary magic to deliver a light-hearted read
—— Irish TimesConcise, eloquent and passionate. It is a marvellous work. Gould speaks clear, sound sense, and Rocks of Ages should be required reading not only for scientists and religious people, but for anybody who cares about the quest for meaning
—— IndependentThis marvellous extended essay should have been the real lost book of the New Testament. Gould, arguably our greatest living popular science essayist, has many joyful enthusiasms. Among them are eternity, Charles Darwin and baseball-Gould has such insatiable and infectious enthusiasm for the intellectual challenge and fascination of being a mere speck in a vast universe
—— ScotsmanRocks of Ages is easy and enjoyable to read. It contains many charming illustrations and interesting insights
—— Sunday TelegraphJust when I think he can't go any deeper, he does. With How to Know God, Deepak Chopra makes it clear: we have in our midst a spiritual genius.
—— Marianne Williamson, Author of Return to Love and Enchanted LoveThe ultimate how-to book! Brilliant!
—— Dean Ornish, M.D., Founder and President, Author of Love & Survival