"Most gulls don't bother to learn more than the simplest facts of flight--how to get from shore to food and back again," writes author Richard Bach, in this allegory about a unique bird named Jonathan Livingston Seagull. "For most gulls it is not flying that matters, but eating. For this gull, though, it was not eating that mattered, but flight." Flight is indeed the metaphor that makes the story soar. Ultimately this is a fable about the importance of seeking a higher purpose in life, even if your flock, tribe or neighbourhood finds your ambition threatening. (At one point our beloved gull is even banished from his flock.) By not compromising his higher vision, Jonathan gets the ultimate pay-off: transcendence. Ultimately, he learns the meaning of love and kindness. The dreamy seagull photographs by Russell Munson provide just the right illustrations--although the overall packaging does seem a bit dated (keep in mind that it was first published in 1970). Nonetheless, this is a spirituality classic and an especially engaging parable for adolescents. --Gail Hudson

2008-08-05 dreams have no boundaries

I was given this book some years ago by a good friend - I have dipped into it so many times and yet each time I read it I never cease to see inspiration vitality and encouragement on each and every page - Bach has the ability to see beyond 'an everyday occurance' and is able to turn it into a magical and enthralling experience. If all of this sounds cheesy then so be it - It is the sort of book you either love or loathe - I have bought several of these little treasures and have given them to friends especially those who have been dealing with difficult situations.