Martin Sodoma
Martin Sodoma, born in 1979, lives in Prague. He is a university teacher and writer of popular science articles, animated poetry, and media texts. His life was significantly influenced by his membership in Jehovah’s Witnesses, especially his service at the organization’s Prague headquarters and later in congregations in the Cheb region. He eventually broke away from this faith. The tragic fate of a close friend inspired him to write „Jehovah’s Witness,“ his first novel. Martin Sodoma is a fictional character, created by two authors united by friendship and similar life experiences.
Jehovah’s Witness
March 2024, 416 pages
A personal, civil story about leaving a religious community, offering surprising insider insights
Ota, the 20-year-old son of one of the leading Jehovah’s Witnesses in Bohemia, travels to Aš to strengthen the faith of the local congregation. Initially, he successfully navigates the congregation’s peculiar environment, persuades non-believers, and wanders the borderland wilderness. However, he is increasingly haunted by years of repressed doubts and remorse stemming from once rejecting his best friend, who was excommunicated from the organization. This time-lapse novel, based on real experiences, is set in the 2000s.
“A deeply human story that feels authentic, avoids action-packed scenes and hysterical twists, and doesn’t overdo it. A brilliantly crafted novel!”
–Kosmas