Review: Not All Who Wander Are Lost
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 25, 2013
This novel revolves around a father and his daughter, both forging ahead on separate yet parallel paths toward an inevitable collision. To be honest, this book will not be for everyone. If you are looking for a fast-paced novel, you may not enjoy this book. If you are looking for an effortless laid back novel, you may not fully appreciate this book. This is a novel overflowing with symbolism (as the title suggests); therefore, this will appeal most to readers who like to seek out deeper meanings within the novels they read. In some areas, the symbolism is obvious; in other areas it's almost poetic in it's subtle imagery and philosophical undertones. It is a slow and steady-paced read that gradually develops a strong connection between the reader and the central characters.I felt a connection with the daughter, Wendell, almost immediately. She's always on the move; restless and unable to stay in one place for very long; continuously searching for her place in the world. I liken Wendell's character development to peeling back the layers of an onion as the author gradually takes us deeper and deeper into her most intimate thoughts. Wendell is running, but is she running away from or towards something? Her father Scott feels disconnected from his daughter's life and is determined to ensure her decisions are different than his own. He wants to shield her from the loneliness and regrets he has amassed as a result of a career that he was unwilling, and unable, to walk away from.While the subject of "remote viewing" for the CIA is present in this novel, it is certainly not the central focus. The main theme of this novel centers around the strained relationship of a father and his daughter and their personal journeys of self-discovery. Like magnetic poles that repel and attract each other, father and daughter dance, both attempting to avoid one simple and powerful truth. Are the familial ties that bind them strong enough to bring them together, or will their choices, past and present, ultimately tear them apart?The book is well-edited, well written, and not easily forgotten. I read this book a couple months ago, finally getting around to writing a review, and yet the characters and their actions are still fresh in my memory. In my opinion, a novel that has staying power is a rare treat. I highly recommend this meaningful read. It reminds us, among many other things, that..."not all who wander are lost..."