Review by raikyuu -- That Place of Knowledge

[raikyuu]

[Following is a volunteer review of "That Place of Knowledge" by Philip Alan Shalka.]

---

3 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Do you feel the world shutting you down just because you think differently? How would you want to have a conversation with one of history’s smartest thinkers?

That Place of Knowledge is a short autobiographical fiction that follows the adventures of Philip and his autism assistance dog, Sabre. The story is told in the perspective of Sabre who accompanies Philip anywhere he goes, whether be that in a pool or at an ancient Greek city. The book is written by Philip Alan Shalka. He describes himself: “I am autistic. I am non-verbal but I am very smart.”

One sunny afternoon, Philip, being too occupied with his thoughts, decides to jump into the pool. Sabre follows him until they reach a trap door underneath the pool. The trap door leads them to a hidden ancient Greek city, where they meet the wise Aristotle himself. The story moves through the conversations of Philip and Aristotle inside that place of knowledge. The conversations include topics such as thinking differently, differentiating the types of knowledge, and being happy.

Mr. Shalka does a good job at sharing his experience with autism. Even though he acknowledges that he thinks differently, he perceives this to be a unique aspect of his character. In the book, I like how his character develops from a “nobody-understands-me” archetype to one that is open-minded and considerate to others.

The dog’s personification in the book resembles that of a loyal human friend who follows Philip anywhere he goes. Unfortunately, the dog is simply used as a narrator who doesn’t contribute anything other than to tell the story from the sidelines. This makes Sabre in the story easily forgettable and replaceable. Nevertheless, the author adds Sabre in the story because the author really has a dog named Sabre in real life.

For a short book, the author presents an interesting view about knowledge. This can be summarized from what Aristotle (in the book) said: “What I mean is when you learn about one thing you are actually learning different kinds of knowledge.” The book clearly shows the author’s enthusiasm not just in Mathematics and Science, but also for different areas such as Politics and Philosophy. The ideas presented in the book are encouraging for intellectually enthusiastic children.

From the looks of it, the book is written as a reflection of the author’s dreams and frustrations. Philip continually contrasts the ancient Greek city to that of the real world; the former represents the author’s sanctuary (both physical and emotional), and the latter that of the author’s troubles. This style communicates clearly not just the author’s feelings, but also the feelings of those who feel that they are different, whether they are autistic or not.

Overall, That Place of Knowledge is a relatable and encouraging book that is written clearly and concisely. The book doesn’t work well as a story, but it has a lot of potential to be a motivational text. I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars. I can recommend this book to anyone who feels alone with their different way of thinking.

******
That Place of Knowledge
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Like raikyuu's review? Post a comment saying so!

[testing123456]

Great review! I do agree that Sabre didn't do anything in the book, but he's still memorable to me

[Ayosinmi]

Once again Rakiyuu, you have done an amazing job with the book. I am very interested in reading the book, hopefully, I will get the time to. Well done. I have a new review out, searching for paradise, please check it out and let me know what you think. Thanks

[raikyuu]

Once again Rakiyuu, you have done an amazing job with the book. I am very interested in reading the book, hopefully, I will get the time to. Well done. I have a new review out, searching for paradise, please check it out and let me know what you think. Thanks

Thank you, Ayosinmi. I'll be sure t9 check it later.