The Tapestry of Spirit by Erik Paul Rocklin

"While there are many that journey who seek, not all that travel will find, for they are bound by what they have been taught and not of what they know." -- from The Tapestry of Spirit. An enchanting, allegorical tale with insights of enduring relevance, The Tapestry of Spirit presents an artfully layered story of an orphan boy following a dream -- a dream of a meeting in the East with a mystical figure known as the Mage. A seemingly coincidental encounter the day after the dream introduces the boy to an old man, summoned by the power of the boy's dream, to serve as his guide and protector during the journey. Along the way, some of the boy's encounters include a wise, elderly Sage, a blind Seer, a captive boy Monk, a grieving Mother, and a dying Father. And through these encounters, the boy learns of the power of dreams, the value of trust and belief, the vision of the heart, and the capacity of every individual to help in the healing of the World. As the boy journeys to seek the Mage, he comes to understand that in doing so, he also seeks his Destiny Thread, and ultimately, how it returns to the universal wisdom that is the Tapestry of Spirit.

This is an allegorical story that is perfect for all lovers of authors like Paulo Coelho. It is a lovely tale of a boy on his way to finding who he really is and what really matters in life.

I am not particularly a huge fan of allegorical tales, but I do have to say this one was one that did leave me thinking, which is exactly the point. The plot is a clever, winding thing that really takes off at once, sending us on a journey with the protagonist, the boy. He is an interesting character, someone who could be pretty much anyone (which is the point) and who struggles with his head as he travels with his guide, the Elder, to the East where he’s been promised he can meet the Mage. The conversations between the Elder and the boy are the crucial moments in this story. Each of them demand the reader’s attention. They make us think and question our own lives.

There is a smoothness to the writing that makes the pages flow in a calming manner. The author keeps the pace even, almost setting a rhythm to the words that actually aids his story. The ending is a tad abrupt, but since it seems there’ll be a follow-up story, this is fine.

If you enjoy Coelho’s book, particularly The Alchemist, then this one is one for you.