Review of 926 Raindrops - Gift of the Wild

Ann Ogochukwu · Post by **Ann Ogochukwu** » 10 Nov 2021, 09:08

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "926 Raindrops - Gift of the Wild" by Gloria Straube.]

4 out of 4 stars

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926 Raindrops - Gift of the Wild is an unconventional title for an unconventional memoir. This book is different from other memoirs that I've read because here, the author doesn't talk about her family life or her career and achievements or her expeditions across countries. Rather, this book featured the soulful story of Gloria Straube's connection with nature, starting from her childhood up till when she wrote this piece. The unique title of this book portrays the two dominant elements in the book: Wolf 926F and rain.

Besides the pleasant memories of daydreaming by the beachside, saving tadpoles, and relishing the rain, Gloria did not have a memorable childhood. Growing up in an extremist Christian home caused this, in addition to the fact that she was very reserved. For all the difficult times and trials she ever faced—her parents' divorce, breaking up with a lover, and even the loss of her beloved, unborn daughter, Rain—she always turned to nature for comfort, usually the rain. And in her lowest moment, when she wanted to give up, she had a vision where a pack of wolves came to be with her. It was after this experience that she, in what I believe to be more than coincidence, encountered Wolf 926F, the alpha female of the Lamar Canyon pack. Her journey with 926F continues for years as she learns life-changing lessons from this wolf who shares in many of her pains.

People who do not care about or believe in the extraordinary may not appreciate this book. This book is in no way tuned to any religion, but the story thrives on the elements of faith, fate, and love. I recommend this book particularly to anyone who appreciates nature and generally to anyone who likes a good, unique memoir. 926 Raindrops - Gift of the Wild is an easy read that can be completed in a couple of sittings.

All I've written so far attest that this is a remarkable book. But there's more. The poetic language employed in telling this story enhanced the emotion and beauty of this piece. "I was recalled that life is but a wandering shadow, a wretched melodrama." "And I would get up and walk on the sand that desired to swallow my feet." Creative diction like this excites me; it was what I liked best in this book. Occasionally, a poetic piece was drafted into the story. There were beautiful illustrations depicting certain events in the story, and at the end of the book, there were pictures from as far back as Gloria's tadpole-catching days; there were even pictures of beloved 926F.

This book's only shortcoming was its formatting. The wordings stopped halfway through each page, leaving the other half blank; sometimes a sentence stopped mid-page, only to continue on the next page. I tried to make the excuse that it was a style, but it clearly wasn't. The formatting seemed to affect the editing of this book, as there were extra spaces between words. Besides this issue, I noticed only a few typos in the book. Frankly, the odd layout of this book did not disturb my reading or appreciation of this book (it was merely unappealing to my eyes), so this shortcoming will not affect my rating. I liked every other thing about this book, and I justifiably rate it 4 out of 4 stars.
* the noted errors have since been corrected for this book*
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926 Raindrops - Gift of the Wild
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Amynwankwo_ · Post by **Amynwankwo_** » 11 Nov 2021, 02:56

This is such an amazing review! I’m enthralled by Gloria here. It’ll be interesting to read about her connection with nature. It’s unfortunate that the editing wasn’t perfectly done. The story still remains very unique and captivating. I’d be sure to check it out.

Paluk Pathania · Post by **Paluk Pathania** » 11 Nov 2021, 09:07

To be honest, nature has always been first for me. It possesses healing abilities, which is a blessing. I like the book's concept and so I'm confident that I will enjoy reading it. Thankyou for your beautiful review.

Review Writer · Post by **Review Writer** » 11 Nov 2021, 13:38

I do love memoir in general. As depicted in this review, I think this book worth my read

NancyDrew12 · Post by **NancyDrew12** » 11 Nov 2021, 18:10

I like the cover of this novel. A true nature lover should enjoy this book. And maybe even learn something new. Nice review.

Ann Ogochukwu · Post by **Ann Ogochukwu** » 13 Nov 2021, 03:23

Amynwankwo_ wrote: ↑11 Nov 2021, 02:56 This is such an amazing review! I’m enthralled by Gloria here. It’ll be interesting to read about her connection with nature. It’s unfortunate that the editing wasn’t perfectly done. The story still remains very unique and captivating. I’d be sure to check it out.

It's the formatting that was imperfect; the book's editing was good. And indeed, this book is a unique and captivating read. Thank you for commenting.

Ann Ogochukwu · Post by **Ann Ogochukwu** » 13 Nov 2021, 03:27

Paluk Pathania wrote: ↑11 Nov 2021, 09:07 To be honest, nature has always been first for me. It possesses healing abilities, which is a blessing. I like the book's concept and so I'm confident that I will enjoy reading it. Thank you for your beautiful review.

Thank you for your equally beautiful comment. The author also mentioned the healing powers of nature (I forgot to add that). It was another thing that fascinated me about her story. So I have no doubt that you, a nature lover, will enjoy this book.

Mody C · Post by **Mody C** » 13 Nov 2021, 22:28

The story sound unique and interesting. I like the way you review the book in a way that it convinced me to read it as soon as possible. Thank you!

Chisom oguejiofor · Post by **Chisom oguejiofor** » 14 Nov 2021, 08:09

This is indeed an unconventional novel. I haven't read a memoir that focuses on nature. I enjoyed reading your review.

Joy C · Post by **Joy C** » 14 Nov 2021, 17:42

This is truly a rare memoir. I've never read one that focuses on nature and the experiences this author has had in her life are indeed unique to her. I'm sure I'd enjoy this, though I might find the formatting issues distracting. Thanks for your interesting review.