Sean Whalen is a former professional basketball coach, born and raised in suburban Washington, DC. His Catholic school experience, and a fascination with the history of religion, led him to study history and philosophy at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In Conspiracy of Faith, Whalen explores Jesus as a man who fakes his death and resurrection.

 

During his fifteen years as a basketball coach, Whalen has had success at the high school, college and professional level. He also spent four years coaching at Howard University. Just as Jesus had to discern the strengths and weaknesses of his disciples, coaching has given Whalen a unique perspective on how to get a group to come together regardless of race, religion or creed. The diversity of relationships from all walks of life has given Whalen insight into how differences can be a positive force when trying to answer key questions about the human condition.

 

Coaching gave Whalen a chance to see the world and engrain himself in different cultures.  He lived in Algiers, Algeria for three years as the head basketball coach of the Algerian National Team, and travelled extensively throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. While living in Algeria, he was immersed in the Islamic world, gaining greater perspective of the Arab culture and the Muslim faith. Spending significant time in multiple countries, from Ivory Coast to China, Whalen was able to gain distinct views on faith, religion and the historical Jesus’ place across multiple disciplines.

 

Conspiracy of Faith is Sean Whalen’s debut novel.