When a man who claims to be from outer space is brought into the Manhattan Institute, the mental ward seems to be just the place for him. However this patient is unlike anyone psychiatrist Dr. Gene Brewer has had under his care before. Calling himself ‘prot’, he has no traceable background but says that he is an inhabitant of the planet K-PAX, a perfect world without wars, government or religion, and where every being coexists in harmony. Setting a departure date – August 17th at 3.31am – on which he plans to return home on a beam of light, ‘prot’ keeps us guessing right up until the end.
Dive into the thought-provoking and captivating world of Gene Brewer's *K-PAX*, a modern science fiction classic that will leave you questioning reality. This New Edition paperback invites you into the intriguing story of 'prot,' a patient at the Manhattan Institute who claims to be an extraterrestrial traveler from the idyllic planet K-PAX. Dr. Gene Brewer, the skeptical psychiatrist tasked with treating 'prot,' finds himself increasingly challenged by his patient's unwavering conviction and detailed descriptions of K-PAX, a world free from the conflicts and complexities of Earth. 'Prot' paints a vivid picture of a utopian society without war, government, or religious strife, where beings live in perfect harmony. As 'prot' interacts with other patients in the mental ward, he begins to have a profound and positive impact on their lives, offering them a glimpse of hope and a different perspective on their own struggles. His insights are so profound and his demeanor so serene that even Dr. Brewer begins to doubt his initial diagnosis. The central mystery revolves around 'prot's' announced departure date - August 17th at 3:31 am - when he claims he will return to K-PAX on a beam of light. As the date approaches, the anticipation and intrigue escalate. Will 'prot' actually leave? Is he a delusional patient or a genuine extraterrestrial? Or perhaps, is he something else entirely? *K-PAX* is more than just a science fiction novel; it's an exploration of sanity, belief, and the power of hope. It delves into the nature of reality, challenging readers to consider alternative perspectives and the limitations of human perception. Gene Brewer masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very end, blending elements of adventure, thriller, and philosophical inquiry. This edition from Bloomsbury, published in 1996, offers readers a chance to experience this compelling story in its original paperback format. Whether you're a long-time fan of the book or a new reader discovering this fascinating tale for the first time, *K-PAX* promises a journey that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Get your copy today and prepare to question everything you thought you knew.