Jesus, Judas and Mordy Ben Ruben
Backgrond material for talk given 2004-12-14 by Dick Gross
Jesus and Judas - media show pony and backroom organiser ... when Mordecai Ben Ruben first meets them, he has them pegged. He also sees, but cannot make them see, that they are playing with fire.
When Mordy encounters Jesus of Nazareth and his followers attempting to stage a triumphal entry into Jerusalem in Passover week, he sees a bunch of rural hicks carried away by their own publicity with no real idea of the dangers they are courting. And what do you do when your wife and your best friend get caught up in this weird, suicidal religious cult?
In this thought-provoking first novel, Dick Gross introduces eye-witness Mordy, Temple priest and dove seller, and offers us a very modern, sceptical and at times scatological perspective on the events surrounding the first Easter in Jerusalem, and on the way history is made and told.
"This is a humorous book which has profound things to say about meaning and existence."
Danielle Kemp, SBS Radio
The Author
Dick Gross has had a varied and distinguished career as a public interest lawyer, media commentator, local government leader and author.
He is also well known as the organiser of bizarre media stunts on issues ranging from consumer credit and debt issues to dog poo.
Dick is currently working on the next instalment of Mordy's trials and adventures, titled St Paul, St Peter and Mordy Ben Ruben: Three Good Jewish Boys in a Flap Over Foreskins.
For detailed information see the Author page.
"Dick Gross’ Jesus, Judas and Mordy Ben Ruben is a bit like meeting him. On the surface, the book is inordinately entertaining, profoundly shocking and full of energy and passion. Beneath the surface, however, there's more scholarship, wisdom and dense argument than the frivolous can deal with or the devout can cope with... Gross’ novel is a warning against irrationality and a chance for a decent belly laugh."
Ralph Mclean Buzz Channel 31 Melbourne
