The Ball and the Cross

'The modern world is not evil; in some ways the modern world is far too good. It is full of wild and wasted virtues.' Serialised in 1905, The Ball and the Cross is a fascinating and nuanced exploration of the spiritual and rationalist world views. Evan Maclan, a devout Catholic, and James Turnball, a fiery atheist, agree to duel after a heated argument over religion. But every time the two men attempt to put an end to things, the authorities interfere – duelling, after all, is forbidden. In order to evade the law, the two men travel across England only to be confronted with a series of absurd events that challenge each of their beliefs and values. The result is an entertaining and sympathetically written account of an unlikely friendship that stands the test of time. Inspired by Chesterton's many debates with his good friend, George Bernard Shaw, The Ball and the Cross is a thoughtful and engaging narrative that champions conviction in a sceptical world. This audiobook edition is engagingly read by Roger May. Gilbert Keith Chesterton (1874 – 1936) was an English novelist, philosopher, journalist and critic. A Christian apologist, he is famed for creating the fictional priest-detective Father Brown. His writing was also renowned for his sense of humour: known as 'the prince of paradox', Chesterton often turned common sayings upside down. Admired by several of his literary contemporaries, Chesterton's work is still widely read today.