How to Succeed in Heaven Without Really Dying

Adam McDaniel

Life isn’t the only thing that’s a bitch…

When Micah Cohen was five years old, he lost his parents to a horrible accident. He was convinced he would have died himself had it not been for his guardian angel - in the form of a little girl he never saw again.

Now, over twenty years later, Micah is living in the frenzy of Manhattan. With Christmas right around the corner and no one to share it with – add a thankless job, no close family or friends – Micah believes that his life has become too hard, his existence too inconsequential. Sadly, he decides to end it all...but the attempt fails ridiculously..

That’s just when Coltan pops up in the middle of his living room. Possessing supernatural powers and a sadistic sense of humor, this “agent for the afterlife” has come to collect Micah’s soul. But one, small technicality prevents Coltan from carrying out his mission: Micah isn’t dead yet.

Rejuvenated by his new lease on life, Micah’s determined to set things right. One good thing comes in Christine, a young homeless woman he befriends.

Yet Micah soon discovers that his days are numbered, for death itself is hunting him down. And it is his guardian angel - Christine - who will decide his soul’s fate when the time comes.

How to Succeed in Heaven Without Really Dying involves many lofty issues: love, forgiveness, friendship, and sacrifice. But make no mistake - it’s a comedy... and one not for the faint of heart.

Review by Nigel (190103) Rating (8/10)

Review by Nigel
When I was first given this book to read and review I was a little sceptical, as the title doesn’t quite slide off the tongue. I needn’t have worried however, as this turned out to be a little gem of a story.

The book starts with our hero Micah Cohen in what can only be described as the mother of all depressions. Things aren’t going well and the only option left is to end it all. After considering various options Micah decides on asphyxiation using the oven… with hilarious results.

After the failed attempt Micah is suddenly confronted by Coltan, come to collect one soul of the recently departed. Not too happy to find a botched job he arranges another suitable time for Micah to do the deed and leaves.

Going through his daily routine awaiting the appointed hour Micah meets Christine and suddenly things aren’t looking too bad. Not wishing to give too much more away Micah learns of the joys life can offer and really doesn’t feel inclined to fulfil Coltan’s quota. As you can imagine Coltan is none too pleased and so a battle to the death ensues.

Things, however, aren’t all they seem and Micah is only a pawn in a bigger game, something he is unaware of for the rest of his life.

I enjoyed this story immensely. It is just the sort of humour I like and I personally found myself laughing out load far more than is strictly healthy. The writing style is clear and flows nicely, with the characters well fleshed out… so much so I must admit to having a slight tear in my eye near the end… but then I’m just a big softy.
Nigel (19th January 2003)