Considering that Lost is one of the most mysterious shows ever to hit the airwaves, it's no surprise that there are numerous books devoted to analyzing the series and answering some of the questions it presents.  The latest author to tackle this Herculean task is Marc Oromaner, whose new book The Myth of Lost: Solving the Mysteries and Understanding the Wisdom is now in bookstores everywhere.  In addition to presenting a detailed theory that could solve every unanswered question, Oromaner seeks to enlighten readers about how the wisdom of Lost can improve their everyday lives.  The book can be a bit hokey and new agey at times, but overall it's a compelling read that will help viewers pass the time until the series returns.

The first few chapters of the book compare the myths of Lost to those found in other pop culture touchstones, including Star Wars, The Matrix and Heroes.  These opening pages nearly forced me to set the book aside for good, as Oromaner rambles on for too long about how God and religion tie into these works of fiction.  I'm amazed I made it past the chapter that ends with the author recommending the film Lady in the Water, followed by his claim that M. Night Shyamalan is the "leading modern-day shaman of America."  I wonder if he still feels that way after seeing The Happening?

After a shaky start, The Myth of Lost becomes a truly compelling read.  Oromaner presents his three favorite theories about how the show's many mysteries could be resolved, then chooses the one he truly believes viewers will be seeing in 2010.  I won't spoil the author's theory here (hint: watch Total Recall), but he does make a very strong case for his ideas.  Oromaner spends over 100 pages connecting the dots and explaining how every piece of the Lost puzzle could fit into his proposed resolution.  It's fascinating to read, and certainly more interesting than the final few chapters that dive back into the spiritual issues.

My one complaint about The Myth of Lost, aside from the hokey self-help aspects, is that it may be rendered completely obsolete once the show wraps up in a few years.  The majority of the book is dedicated to Oromaner's theories regarding the end of the series, and while they're intriguing at the moment, they may seem preposterous come 2011.  This isn't a book that will stand the test of time, but it is a very well thought out, fascinating read for fans of the show.  I've pondered numerous ways the Lost producers could end the series, but rarely has anyone presented an argument as detailed as the one found in The Myth of Lost.


- Don Williams, BuddyTV Staff Writer
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