Introduction to Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Yann Martel Bio Born in Spain in 1963 to Canadian parents who were pursuing graduate studies Parents joined foreign services and he grew up in Costa Rica, France, Spain, Mexico, and Canada

Bio cont’d Obtained philosophy degree from Trent University First book was a collection of short stories His second, a novel Neither successful In 2002 he won the Man Booker Prize for fiction for Life of Pi

Booker Prize The Booker Prize rewards the best novel of the year written by a citizen of the Commonwealth or Republic of Ireland Prestigious award Life of Pi is “the most popular Booker Prize winner ever”

According to one of the judges: “In Life of Pi we have chosen an audacious book in which inventiveness explores belief. It is, as the author says, a novel which makes you believe in God or ask yourself why you don’t.”

Plagiarism Debate Accusations of plagiarism – claimed close resemblance to Max and the Cats by Moacyr Scliar Quickly cleared of charges Similarities superficial In author’s note, “as for the spark of life, I owe it to Mr. Moacyr Scliar” (x).

Film Golden Globe for Best Original Score 11 Oscar nominations including: Best Picture Director – Ang Lee Music Won for Best Achievement in Directing Best Achievement in Cinematography Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Score Best Achievement in Visual Effects "Life of Pi" Official Trailer 2 - YouTube

Focus Your Reading Narration and italics Role of Religion Storytelling and its connection to religion Nature of truth Binaries Fact and Fiction Religion and Science Imagination and Reason