Reviews
“Steinberg’s debut novel offers a quirky, engaging backdrop for an informative exposition on Vedic philosophy and religious symbolism… A lively novel that teaches the precepts of meditation and the roots of religion.”
“To Be Enlightened by Alan J. Steinberg is one of the most compelling and in-depth introductions to meditation… It is not often that a great novel with interesting but flawed characters teaches you so much about reaching self-actualization but this superb story did just that.”
"The spiritual and philosophical blend together beautifully in this compelling novel by Dr. Alan Steinberg. His deep knowledge of Yoga, meditation, and human nature make for a page-turning read that will enlighten all readers.”
“Sci-fi meets Self-Help. Dr. Steinberg’s debut novel, To Be Enlightened, is a sexy, refreshingly male voice on one of the most leading-edge topics of our time. I didn't want to put it down. I've never felt that way about a 'spiritual' book before.”
This is a gentle yet concrete introduction to Vedic literature and its implications in the modern world for the curious mind. This book offers reassurances in its portrayal of the journey to enlightenment for the seasoned seeker of truth.
“Dr. Alan J. Steinberg’s debut novel in some ways echoes other works with similar themes, e.g., Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra, or Siddhartha by Herman Hesse. But To Be Enlightened provides a distinctive, twenty-first-century take on setting and characters, giving it a uniquely California flavor…. To Be Enlightened is sure to illuminate the unenlightened readers, expanding their understanding of eastern philosophy and religion.”
“Steinberg manages to bring together heady topics of Eastern and Western philosophy and spirituality, even science, in a breezy, easy-to-read novel. One couldn't make these extremely relevant topics—so urgent today given our dilemmas as a civilization—much more accessible. And as a bonus, we get to enjoy an entertaining and inspiring story.”
“To Be Enlightened by Alan Steinberg tracks the daily life of philosophy professor, Abe, as he navigates the demands of his marriage and career. Written from Abe’s point of view, the reader vicariously experiences Abe’s college course on Vedic philosophy, his life, and his meditations, which taken together, make his enlightenment an understandable and believable possibility. An intimate, highly intelligent, deeply thoughtful work, and an inspiring must-read for every spiritual seeker intending to fully awaken in this lifetime.”