Authouress: Florinda Donner-Grau
Publisher: Crux Publishing UK 2013
ISBN: 9780062502421

Review:
I came across this book rather randomly. As I read it I was drawn into an amazing World that few can only imagine. The portrayal of Native Life and the ways of the Jungle kept me enthralled and fascinated. I followed the writer as she slowly came to understand the unique people she was sharing the Jungle with.

Years later, I find there are many reviews on this book that are harsh and unforgiving. Written by individuals who loudly claim their academic levels of knowledge and personal experiences. Then slamming rather ruthlessly into the writer for what they see was nothing more then a work of fiction.

Personally I will not profess to have any deep knowledge of the Amazon or it's many people. Nor will I try and counter the rather bombastic pontificating of those who have lambasted Florinda Donner-Grau for her lack of knowledge. I enjoyed the book and have a deeper respect for the people then before. In much the same way as I enjoyed the book "Isabel Allende" by Isabel Allende book City of the Beasts. Perhaps part of the amazing joy of reading is in the personal discovery.

I am rather sad to discover though, that Florinda Donner-Grau has been missing for many years. The question comes to mind, has anyone searched for her in all these Years? Does anyone care enough these days when people go missing?

Whether you think of it as an authentic account of a real persons experience or as a very clever and witty fictional book, it is over all a good read and worth checking out.

Michael

NB: More recently I have discovered more to the story. It would seem she was part of a cult that believed their leader had achieved eternal life. Tragically he died and left them and the organisation behind. One of the three women was found buried near her car in a dessert area. While Florinda and the other woman have been missing since. My suggestion is to follow the money trail from the organisation to where she may be living.