When I was 12 I was totally into WATERSHIP DOWN, soon after I read THE PLAGUE DOGS. Then my Mom brought SHARDIK back for me and I just couldn't get into it. 28 years later, I gave it a chance and it's amazing.
What if Jesus was a really big bear instead of a man. How would we interpret his actions? How would his followers worship? That's kinda what his book is about.
It follows a hunter in an ancient tribal society after he discovers a giant bear who has been prophesied to be the return of God to earth. Of course, the bear proceeds to kill some heretics and destroy half the village and wander towards their enemies homeland. This is interpreted as a declaration of holy war. The people heed the call. The story follows the hunter and his people as well as a few other societies as they fight for supremecy. Corruption, slavery, religion, forgiveness and loyalty are some of the themes explored. It would make an epic movie but Jesus freaks wouldn't approve......