Chapel Perilous: The Life & Thought Crimes of Robert Anton Wilson, is the first biography of the late countercultural novelist and underground philosopher, Robert Anton Wilson. Wilson’s Illuminatus! Trilogy (co-written with Robert Shea) is one of the most talked about underground American novels of the late 20th century. Wilson’s work and life were full of magic and strange occurrences. His ideas have been sources of inspiration for some of the most exciting writers working today. Names like Grant Morrison, Douglas Rushkoff, Alan Moore, Tom Robbins, and many others all proudly declare that Wilson was a huge influence on their work. George Carlin, arguably the greatest Stand-Up comedian of all time, even claimed Wilson as a major influence on his worldview. Simply put, Robert Anton Wilson may have quietly become the most influential American writer of our time, and hardly anyone knows it! Chapel Perilous will change that. This book will appeal to both the hardcore RAW fan, who can quote chapter and verse of any RAW book, as well as those who never heard of Robert Anton Wilson. It is a focused micro-history of Wilson’s life and times, folded into a compelling hero’s journey story line, that contemplates some of the most important aspects of human life.

Book cover of 'Chapel Perilous' about Robert Anton Wilson by Gabriel Kennedy. Forewords by Grant Morrison and Douglas Rushkoff.

KIRKUS EDITOR'S PICK — MARCH 1, 2026, VOLUME XCIV, NO.5

READ THE DIGITAL ISSUE:

https://issuu.com/kirkus-reviews/docs/march_1_2026_volume_xciv_no._5/144

Chapel Perilous: The Life & Thought Crimes of Robert Anton Wilson is a featured Editor's Pick for Indie release in the March 01, 2026 issue of Kirkus Reviews Magazine.

"Kennedy approaches his subject with thoroughness and a wry humor that Wilson would likely have appreciated..."

"An engaging, readable work detailing the life and career of a cult-favorite author."

BOING BOING, REVIEW - APRIL 10, 2025

"Gabriel Kennedy's Chapel Perilous: The Life and Thought Crimes of Robert Anton Wilson is more than a biography—it attempts a multidimensional mapping of Wilson's life, philosophy, ideas, and cultural impact, rendered in a suitably Wilsonian style...The result is intellectually satisfying while also being deeply entertaining. Newcomers will find a rich introduction; longtime fans will appreciate fresh insights into Wilson's personal hardships, creative processes, and his lasting impact." -- Gareth Branwyn

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Review: Chapel Perilous: The Life and Thought Crimes of Robert Anton Wilson - Boing Boing