"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
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Inspiring! This was a xmas present from one of my sons. It's a lovely little book of just 87 pages, and is filled with a wonderful up lifting story. As I was reading this book, I was wondering whether if it had been made into a children's cartoon/movie? I can see it being one. The story is about how Jonathan Livingston Seagull, wants to fly, he wants to break free from the restraints of his flock and show them, how free and wonderful it is and how you can push yourself to make your dreams come true. But will... more info
Ask yourself what kind of gull you are! I'm not quite sure how I missed this book for so long. It was originally published in 1970 and even became a film. But I had never bothered to find the time to read this incredibly short book. Perhaps I felt that as a fable it would be more appropriate for young adults. Perhaps, and I feel this probably the most likely reason that I never got around to it, it seemed to me that Jonathan Livingston Seagull had had its time and that now some 38 years later it would have gone stale. On both counts, I now admit... more info
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... more info
Always an inspiration Shunned by his flock, Jonathan Livingston lives and flies while they merely survive and eat. His story is a beacon to freethinkers everywhere. It never fails to cheer me up when I'm feeling down. If it doesn't do the same for you, please pass your copy on to the nearest maverick.
