One Long River of Song

Notes on Wonder

By: Brian Doyle, David James Duncan - introduction

Narrated by: George Newbern, Mary Doyle, Liam Doyle, Lily Doyle, Joseph Doyle

A playful and moving book of essays by a "born storyteller" (Seattle Times) who invites us into the miraculous and transcendent moments of the everyday When Brian Doyle passed away at the age of sixty after a bout with brain cancer, he left behind a cult-like following of devoted readers who regard his writing as one of the best-kept secrets of the twenty-first century. Doyle writes with a delightful sense of wonder about the sanctity of everyday things, and about love and connection in all their forms: spiritual love, brotherly love, romantic love, and even the love of a nine-foot sturgeon. At a moment when the world can sometimes feel darker than ever, Doyle's writing, which constantly evokes the humor and even bliss that life affords, is a balm. His essays manage to find, again and again, exquisite beauty in the quotidian, whether it's the awe of a child the first time she hears a river, or a husband's whiskers that a grieving widow misses seeing in her sink every morning. Through Doyle's eyes, nothing is dull. David James Duncan sums up Doyle's sensibilities best in his introduction to the collection: "Brian Doyle lived the pleasure of bearing daily witness to quiet glories hidden in people, places and creatures of little or no size, renown, or commercial value, and he brought inimitably playful or soaring or aching or heartfelt language to his tellings." A life's work, One Long River of Song invites readers to experience joy and wonder in ordinary moments that become, under Doyle's rapturous and exuberant gaze, extraordinary.

Inspiring

Brian Doyle was such a breath of fresh air. It makes me feel more and more genuine with every story.

absolutely love this book

Brian Doyle's writing is at once simple and deeply profound. Amusing and touching. His topics are quotidian but he somehow, in the most ordinary way, leads you to contemplate the sublime. My heart swelled, my eyes misted over, I laughed out loud – sometimes within the reading of one essay. He has left me in awe of his genius and huge, excellent heart. Now, I'm a little more in love with my own life, my children and this awesome world.

A treasure

We all need more of this in our lives. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and wisdom with this and future generations.

Sublime

Witty and poignant by turns. He speaks clearly and lyrically about the crazy amazing business of paying attention.

Touching, beautiful writing

What a gifted writer! I wish I could have known him. It is a treasure to have someone who can express themselves in an uplifting and caring way. Brian Doyle makes me want to be a better person, to be more creative and express my gratitude to God for all I have. So sad that his life was cut short, but so thankful for his wonderful writing. You will love this book. The narrator was perfect.