Max Simon Ehrlich’s “The Reincarnation Of Peter Proud” is more than just a story; it’s a fascinating artifact of the early 1970s, a period where the echoes of the “trippy” 60s were still resonating, giving rise to the burgeoning New Age movement. This book serves as a compelling snapshot of that era, capturing its unique zeitgeist and sensibilities, even if its primary aim seems to be that of a supernatural thriller. For readers interested in delving into a time capsule of cultural curiosity blended with suspense, “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” offers a unique experience.
A Window into the 1970s: Naivete and the Supernatural
The 1970s were marked by a particular “naivete of possibility,” as the original reviewer aptly puts it. Concepts like reincarnation, while ancient, gained renewed traction within the rising New Age movement. Following the atomic age and lunar landings, there was a palpable sense that the universe held far more mysteries than previously imagined. This era saw a surge in “Supernatural Materialism,” a term humorously coined to describe the trend of soberly examining fringe ideas through a materialistic lens in books, movies, and even political philosophies.
“The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” fits perfectly into this mold, alongside other 70s supernatural thrillers and horror films that explored the fringes of science and the paranormal. Think of titles like The Dead Zone, The Fury, Exorcist II, and moving into the 80s, Firestarter, The Entity, and Poltergeist. These works often featured characters on the fringes of established science, lending a veneer of pseudo-legitimacy to their explorations of the supernatural. Coupled with the mainstream success of supernatural horror like Rosemary’s Baby, The Exorcist, and The Omen, “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” arrived at an opportune moment, becoming a bestseller by tapping into this cultural nerve.
Pre-Internet Investigation: A Nostalgic Journey
One of the most captivating aspects of “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud,” particularly for contemporary readers, is its depiction of pre-internet investigation. In a world saturated with instant information, the book offers a nostalgic glimpse into a time when research required tangible effort and direct human interaction. The protagonist, Peter Proud, embarks on his quest to unravel the mysteries of his recurring dreams in a world devoid of search engines and social media.
Imagine Peter having to physically call a TV station on a landline after spotting something relevant on television! The necessity of meeting a producer in person, wristwatch and wall-mounted telephone in tow, highlights the stark contrast to our current information landscape. This element of the narrative adds a layer of historical intrigue, showcasing a world where patience and physical presence were paramount to uncovering information.
A “Twilight Zone” Episode in Book Form: Strengths and Weaknesses
While “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” successfully captures the 70s zeitgeist and offers an engaging pre-internet investigative thread, it does have its shortcomings. As noted in the original review, the book leans more towards being a supernatural thriller in aspiration than in execution. The exploration of reincarnation and spirituality remains somewhat superficial, lacking depth. Furthermore, the main character, Peter Proud, can feel somewhat detached, lacking strong personal interests or aspirations beyond his quest to understand his dreams. The plot progression is also rather slow-paced, with a noticeable lack of peril until the final act.
Despite these criticisms, “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” remains an enjoyable read, especially for those interested in a light supernatural thriller with a strong sense of time and place. It functions effectively as a “Twilight Zone” episode in book form, offering intriguing twists and turns without delving too deeply into complex themes or character development. For readers seeking a quick and entertaining journey back to the 1970s supernatural landscape, “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” is worth exploring.
In conclusion, while not a literary masterpiece, “The Reincarnation of Peter Proud” by Max Simon Ehrlich earns a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. Its value lies in its ability to transport readers back to the 1970s, offering a glimpse into the era’s fascination with the supernatural and the nascent New Age movement, all wrapped within a digestible and entertaining thriller narrative.
