Of Water and the Spirit: Ritual, Magic, and Initiation in the Life of an African Shaman (Compass) Paperback – 1 May 1995

Great true story, well told. Provides an understanding of western christian thinking compared to indigenous people's worldview.

I have bought two.. one for borrowing out and one just for me.

Amazing tale reminding us of the old ways of the world vs what the new order want us to belive

I recommend this to any open minded, spirititually inclined person, but especially to my fellow black brothers and sisters who are looking to reconnect with their african roots. Although this book does not go into all the details concerning the dagara tribe belief system, the story presented in these pages certainly provide a beautiful insight into spiritual and traditional concepts that we are totally ignorant of in the western world.The story perfectly captures the journey of a young child raised amongst a people with strong community values, only to see the destructive nature of colonialism. (a story we are all familiar with) Having grown into a young man away from his people and indoctrinated with a European perception of the world he finds himself spiritually lost. Yet the foundation of traditional African values laid in his childhood never died, it only lay dormant to re-awaken later on in life, and when it does, he begins an epic journey of self discovery and spiritual enlightenment...The beauty of this book is that although you are reading about someone else's story, you will feel yourself going through that spiritual journey,This book is such an easy read, I found myself pacing through the book very quickly, always in anticipation of what the next chapter will bring, after finishing the book I knew I wanted to read more from this author. To some readers the true life stories presented here may seem too far fetched to be believed, but the honesty and conviction of which these events have been written will inspire most.

Excellent read.

Incredible book detailing the lost magic and wisdom of our ancestral african heritage due to the ramifications of colonialism. Malidoma Somé is a beautiful storyteller and healing writer. This was everything I needed to read especially in these times of uncertainty, racism and loss of spirit in the West. Couldn't recommend more.

An absolutely amazing read! From almost the first page to the last I was completely absorbed by the author's spiritual and cultural journey; albeit an extremely painful one. What is so sad, is how few Africans have been able to hold on to the wonderfully rich traditional heritage of our ancestor's belief/faith systems. Nonetheless, a must read for all those Africans in search of a lost spiritual heritage.

Very special book, there's really more possible than general life offers. Offers great reading and great insights. Well done really.