The Devil's Notebook

If you ignore the obvious religious implications according to Anton Szandor LaVey the founder of the Church of Satan; Satanism is just another philosophy which you can choose to either agree with or disagree with. If you approach this book with an open mind there are some well-reasoned and interesting ideas to be found amongst the pseudo mystical babble and his many rants at the stupidity of the world. At times it is incredibly funny especially when LaVey so accurately points out the hypocrisy which exists in our society and his opinion of television and health food stores is absolutely priceless! Other subjects which he writes about tend to be a little bit more bizarre especially his Trapezoid theory and his fascination with mannequins (bargain basement human androids) towards the end of the book is completely and outrageously bonkers. Nevertheless it suggested to me that LaVey didn’t really like real people very much unless they were worthy of his company which does hint at a narcissistic personality. LaVey writes very eloquently but sometimes his essays descend into negativity and his sense of frustration with the masses is noticeable. I don’t agree with everything in this book and I am certainly not a Satanist but there were many things he said which I found myself agreeing with. All in all it was a very compelling read mired a little by a hefty amount of cynicism but I don’t regret my purchase at all.

i liked this book as it gives you the real truth about Satanism, the author is a real nice guy, and very true in his opinions, i wish i had met him. I reccomend you read this first you will understand the rest of his books, if you dont like it you haven't wasted any money, but if you do like it, buy all the others

If you approach this book with no prejudice and simple curiosity for the wisdom and knowledge in this book then your bound to gain lots of it I read this book like five times and I still learn more than the last time it’s allowed me to see Satanism in a different light although I haven’t converted and don’t plan too even those that think satanism is inherently bad should read this book it helps anyone!

Great read and great value for money!

A fascinating collection of essays from LaVey. Whilst not everything here carries the significance of LaVey's major works, there is enough to make the book worth reading for the student of the left-hand path, psychology or those interested in LaVeyan Satanism.

Interesting read can't say I am converted but makes some fair points and I know alot of people that are satanic and don't even know who la vey is l.

Brought it for the mrs. She’s a bit strange but it kept her quiet

I really enjoyed this book. Laveys writing style is second to none, in my opinion, and he writes with such wit and humor. This is a must read for anybody who has enjoyed his other work.

Para las personas que nos gustan estos temas paranormales y religiosos está muy bien, todo de buena calidad

Me gusta el humor y el punto de vista oscuro que usa Anton Szandor LaVey. Una crítica a la mediocridad que rompe los esquemas típicos de lo que la percepción de lo que las masas consideran una buena persona. Entretenido y que lleva a la reflexión. Por lo mismo, mentes cerradas o sin criterio podrán ponerse el saco y sentirse ofendidas ;)

This is the first collection of LaVey's short essays, ranging on a broad range of topics and makes an excellent companion to his later book, "Satan Speaks!" Like the later book this earlier book gives LaVey's opinions of everything from society, politics, religion, history, science, philosophy, metaphysics, technology. LaVey was certainly a well read guy. And in reading his works, you might find yourself saying, "Hey, that's right! I've seen that myself." or, "I never thought of it that way before!" Here is a guy that has the guts to come out and call a spade a spade. And like "Satan Speaks!" this earlier book will make you roll with laughter. His essay "Hatha Toilet Seat Meditation," makes a good read, especially while in the bathroom! The other good one for reading while in the john is the essay about Fernando DePlancy (what a weird guy -- but hey, it takes all kinds!) They will tickle your funny bone. LaVey also discusses his and others' peculiar fetishes and interests and also about his experiences as a carny. This book will make you wonder, ponder, upset you, frighten you, and make you laugh. But it is not a boring read.

This book is pretty worthless. LaVey almost always seems to loose his point midway through his essays, or to not have one at all. Plus he thinks ecology is not a worthy pursuit, which is the wrongest one person could ever be.

Some good insights and ramblings, but sometimes the language can be a bit exclusive to Church of Satan followers