You do not read a good satirical book on the human condition that often. Pesti Angeli: A Story of the Neanderthals is one such novel. Michael Thomas Griswold looks at events from biblical times to the present, viewed from an upside-down perspective. Picture a world where humans are referred to as Curs while Neanderthals are the Angels. In this concept alone, you will begin to get an idea of what Griswold is trying to convey. Judging from the way we are managing the planet, we act like mongrels and our Neanderthal ancestors have surpassed us because of their intelligence, and they have ascended into higher, divine forces. The story begins on Adam’s eleventh birthday when Curs existed to plague Adam’s people. Over the course of evolution, we then learn that the Angels of the world’s five religions have somehow tamed the Curs, but wars, slavery, and starvation still persist. Prominent historical figures make their appearances in this story, where in the end good must prevail at the cost of ending certain roles on Earth.

Wit as a component of Pesti Angeli is what makes it an effective satire. The story runs the gamut of biblical references known to many of us, and what Michael Thomas Griswold is giving is exposure and criticism of our foolishness and corruption. With his use of irony, exaggeration, and ridicule, Griswold’s writing is bouncy and devilishly clever and can hopefully enlighten readers and convert them into followers of his work. The plot is grounded in a concept that you will have no problems understanding, and it might even remind you of classics like Gulliver’s Travels and Going Postal. This narrative delivers entertainment and commentary value.

Pesti Angeli: A Story of the Neanderthals by Michael Thomas Griswold is much more than a historical fiction novel on the bookshelves. Opening in 112,014 BCE in Central Africa, we meet our hero. Adam is 11 years old and not old enough to go hunting like the other men of his village. As the son of the village chief, he is supposed to uphold the traditions of his people. He thought the biggest threat to his people was the Curs, but he was wrong. There is a bigger threat waiting to happen, something that none of his people ever anticipated. Somehow, they have singled Adam out. Little does he know, he is the beginning of a bigger picture that will unfold slowly. Generations will play their part in this fight against right and wrong. Only the Gods can help them, but what if the Gods don’t have the answers?

Divided into four parts and with an epilogue to conclude the story, Pesti Angeli is an intricate novel that holds the attention of readers until the end. Each of the four parts has central characters and Michael Thomas Griswold shows how Neanderthals and humans evolved. He brings some well-known names into the story, from Churchill to Satan. The author writes about the history of human growth and evolution over the years. The story spans centuries and the author did a great job of doing justice to each era and century. There is deceit, lies, and evil and then there is good and innocence too. Pesti Angeli is a worthy story, something that you will enjoy reading. The ending gave me a sense of fulfillment!