REVIEW: BOINGBOING! MAGAZINE
BY GARETH BRANWYN - PUBLISHED APRIL 10, 2025
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A FEW EXCERPTS FROM GARETH BRANWYN'S REVIEW. . .
"Beyond biography, Chapel Perilous doubles as a practical guide to Wilson's ideas and methods. It highlights, among other things, Wilson's take on conspiracy psychology, reality tunnels ("We don't see things as they are; we see things as we are"), model agnosticism (being open to anything, skeptical of everything), and hilaritas (consciously choosing cheerfulness and courage in the face of chaos). Reading through Chapel Perilous, one can't help but be struck by how alarmingly relevant many of RAW's ideas remain, in light of today's choose-your-own digital reality tunnel, where algorithms and oligarchs program the Holodeck."
"Kennedy's narrative style often mirrors Wilson's—blending storytelling, philosophy, absurdism, and good humor. The book avoids slipping into an all-out fawning hagiography, though Kennedy is squarely on Team RAW. The result is intellectually satisfying while also being deeply entertaining. Newcomers will find a rich introduction; longtime fans will appreciate fresh insights into Wilson's personal hardships, creative processes, and his lasting impact."
"For those who admire Wilson's work—or anyone curious to meet at the unlikely crossroads of science, philosophy, conspiracy psychology, enchantment, and transhumanism—Chapel Perilous is a must-read. Kennedy has written not just a biography, but a living document that carries on Wilson's mission of challenging perception, destabilizing certainty, and inviting readers to explore the edges of reality."
AMAZON REVIEWS FOR CHAPEL PERILOUS: THE LIFE & THOUGHT CRIMES OF ROBERT ANTON WILSON
"...The ride was so compelling, I think I'll read it again and try not to weep at the end this time. Thanks Gabriel, for your poignant, humorous and didactic tale of one of the greatest thinkers of our time. Buy this book, people!"
"...It's a masterpiece. Buy it, read it, change your brain."
"...This book isn't a biography; it's an initiation! Gabriel Kennedy captures Bob's genius with remarkable clarity, making the book as entertaining as it is illuminating..."
"An absolutely spellbinding trip through the lives and ideas of Robert Anton Wilson, a book about RAW that is just as fun as reading a book by RAW..."
"This book is long rumored. It is better than expected...R A Wilson meant a lot to me growing up so I wanted this analysis of his life...I feel more connected and inspired. "
"...You do not have to be aware of Robert Anton Wilson to be enthralled, inspired, and entertained by this masterwork by Gabriel Kennedy..."