Reviews

From the book jacket: An old man lives in a village on the Nangaritza River. The village is so small the dentist comes only twice a year, to pull teeth and bring books to the old man – love stories, the kind with maximum heartache. This is a story of the jungle, green hell and Eden; of the Shuar Indians, who know how to live in harmony with it; of the machines and settlers and gold prospectors and gringos who have invaded it. Nature, out of balance, becomes vengeful and violent.

My reactions:
What a beautifully written story. I couldn’t help but think of my father – the way he knew the land and respected the animals who made it their home. There is a certain amount of philosophy expressed here – respect for nature, the foolishly aggressive humans making a mess out of paradise. The old man wants only to live in harmony with the jungle, not to conquer it.

The writing is poetic and atmospheric, with a great sense of place. I felt the heat and humidity of the rainy season. Felt my skin crawl with insects. Heard the sounds of the jungle – the splash of a fish jumping out of the water, the whoosh of wings as a bird or bat took flight, the rustle of leaves made by a large animal moving through the undergrowth. Felt both the peace and terror of a pitch black night.

mizzbooks_'s review against another edition

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1.0

I know I am supposed to love it and it's a classic, but what are we actually talking about here? It just wasn't for me and I was actually sad about it because I usually like this author.

itspparto's review against another edition

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medium-paced

2.5

labrume's review against another edition

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adventurous inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

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