A 220-page collection of essays on four prophets, Johnston's book is divided into a Table of Contents, Preface, Introduction, the focus on the prophets Carl Jung, J. R. R. Tolkien, Jean Gebser, and Sir Aurobindo and Mother (whom he combines), and ends with an Appendix, References, and an Index. The beginning Introduction leads the reader in examining these prophets together in their works exploring the new consciousness—the integral consciousness seen in the past by an elite and today in this complex world. Here the book examines spiritual transcendence, the mystical, the nature of the psyche, and the prophetic—the prophet being "any individual who speaks with the word of God. The prophet is an inspired seer, capable of expressing the Will of God."

While the book is written in essay form, the writing takes us back and forth through the various prophets, which makes for an interrelated work and not just separate writings. The reading explores numerous belief systems, psychological works, literary examples, and religious works encompassing both Eastern and Western thought. Also, the author focuses on the mystical number four and recounts in various ways how this number is shown throughout the works of these prophets.With the insight of his studies at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and at the Jung Institute, the writing is well-researched.

This is not a book to be read lightly, nor can one read this without pause, for it is an intelligent and provocatively thoughtful work. Because this is a highly specialized read with the reader needing to have some background on these authors as well as knowledge about various religious and spiritual beliefs, there will be a small audience, but an astute one. You may disagree with some of his premises, especially the people whom he views as prophets, but you will enter a deep reading that is invoked with love and respect for these five individuals.

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