Review of Tales of a Wandering Free Soul

[Elavarasi Charles]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Tales of a Wandering Free Soul" by Benjamin M Tkatch.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

"Sometimes, the most meaningful journeys begin with the simplest desires," Benjamin Tkatch says in his book Tales of a Wandering Free Soul. In his short story-style journal entries, the author brings forth all his memories of his adventures and the lessons he accrued through those experiences.

The wild spirit in him, seeded by his adventure-loving parents, takes him on spiritual trails that teach him to shed his fears and embrace the wholeness of life. When it comes to a spiritual adventure, the common fear is leaving behind the familiar for the unknown. This safe haven of familiarity dulls the call of adventure in us. The author didn't let such an illusion of comfort halt him from venturing where his heart steered him. A simple teenage desire takes him to Mexico, where he experiences cultural differences for the first time. He broke the spell of comfort there through genuine human bonding and cultivated a desire for simple things in life. Years later, at the height of his promising career, when his heart stirred with the familiar call of adventure, he gave in, packed his bags, went to Lake Superior, and started writing the most mesmerizing and eye-opening chapter of his life. Throughout his book, he reveals how he transforms the fear instilled by societal expectations into valuable lessons.

Yes, it is a path traversed by many before, though what makes it unique is the people he met and the changes they inspired in him. I was especially moved by the chapter 'A Gift from the Colorado River,' where he faces the currents of the powerful Colorado River with the help of a wise old guide, Mike, and in the chapter 'Faith in Action,' where I caught a glimpse of what trusting a stranger with one’s life looks like. The book brims not only with the passion of a nature-loving adventurer but also with a deep humanity that elicits sincere love for a fellow human, something no other modern comfort can replace. The author has found this tranquility through his trips of spiritual awakening in India, Nepal, and Thailand. We gradually see the true purpose of his adventures take the shape of what I would like to describe as 'Divinity.' His acts of service in Kolkata and Nairobi, carried out with openness and compassion, stand as a testament to that. As a true adventurer, he has done all these while taking responsibility for his own expenses. He even worked in a tree-planting start-up, which balanced his passion with reality. We might be tied by circumstances where going on such brave adventures is impossible. However, we can feel all those suppressed simple desires of human nature gently awakened by the author’s raw encounters of conquering fear. Surely, every one of his tales pierced my heart.

The book is fast-paced with commendable editing. With no room for any suggestions, I am pleased to give this book a perfect 5 out of 5. Another wonderful aspect of this book is its suitability for readers of all ages. If you are looking for inspiration to plan your first or next adventure trip, then this book is the best fit for you. Even seasoned adventurers will find it engaging, as it offers a unique and personal take on the experience. Additionally, you can also gift it to your children to plant the essence of adventure early in their lives.

******
Tales of a Wandering Free Soul
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Kibet Hillary]

It is good to read that fear can be transformed into great lessons, though breaking out of one's comfort zone is a daunting task. It is true that simple desires can lead to great adventures, and this is an inspirational lesson. This is an informative review, @Elavarasi Charles.

[Krystal Sutphin]

It sounds like a well thought out memoir. I will have to check it out, especially with the five star review @Elavarasi Charles