Mutant Message Down Under by Marlo Morgan
Most of us have heard or seen the world news over the past couple of months as Australia’s wild bushfires continue to devastate the country. As I was discussing with a friend recently about this tragedy and loss suffered by the wildlife, people and landscape of Australia, an old book title entered our conversation so I downloaded it for my next read. Mutant Message Down Under is not what I would call a favorite read of mine, however, it has a strong thought-provoking message that is still relevant in 2020.
Mutant Message Down Under is a fictional piece written from a real-life experience with the Australian Aborigines, a small nation referred to as the Wild People or the Ancient Ones. The author spends three months on a walk-about in the Outback with this ancient tribe. During this incredible adventure, the author learns so much about herself and how our world and our people compare to the Wild People. Born empty-handed and die empty-handed. The Reader can take away many different messages from this book.
The Dutch House, a Novel by Ann Patchett
Oh, how I enjoyed listening to this audio book! Part of the reason was the narration by Tom Hanks brings so much sarcasm and humor to the words. The main character of the novel is the Dutch House, a lavish estate near Philadelphia. The story unfolds over many decades as two siblings struggle to overcome a sad and tragic childhood. Even though both siblings become successful adults, they can’t shake the strong hold the Dutch House has on their minds and memories. The author is able to invoke humor, sadness and even rage to bring the depth of emotions the Dutch House has over this family. I highly recommend this book, and if possible, the audio book as Tom Hanks is a master at delivering the story.