The Pilgrim and the Angel

by E. Lily Yu, LeVar Burton (Narrator)

An angel surprises a humble coffee shop owner in Cairo. This story appears in E. Lily Yu's collection JEWEL BOX, published by Erewhon Books.

Genres: Fiction, Audiobook, Short Stories

1 pages, Audiobook

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Chrysten McNiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0⭐“Hagar burned and tore her feet as she ran in search of water for her son. Did you not hear her weeping?”

**mild content spoilers**

♡ LBR 2023 ♡

I am so, SO happy to plug in with these stories again on LeVar Burton Reads. I took a couple years to get my associate, and I can’t begin to express how difficult it was to find a free half hour in a day. I’m out of the woods, at least for a little while, and when I saw the new season update, my heart skipped a beat. Feels like a homecoming, and here I am, late to the party.

I truly struggle with organized religion. It’s so easily corrupted. But I will never forget to leave room for the miracle of how kind, loving people traverse through its structures and elevate. A few even manage to leave this world a little better than they found it.

Whatever the name of god, I believe in a deeply true and innate cosmic holiness. And I believe if you’re aligned with that holiness, no matter what your religion, your pilgrimage will always lead to love. And because love is everything, love is god, love is holy, it’s the height of transcendence. Fareed knew that—he even cites his source. “Hagar burned and tore her feet as she ran in search of water for her son. Did you not hear her weeping?”

Love is the parable we can’t stop living out, if we’re living right.

Perfect story.

Thanks for reading and if you wanna chat about the latest LBR episodes, come join us at the LeVar Burton Reads Official Community.

- 📚☕♥
Goodreads Official Star Representation
5 - It was amazing
4 - I really liked it
3 - I liked it
2 - It was okay
1 - Did not like it.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn't just narration by LeVar Burton ... it's interpretation. Without knowing the cultural and religious backdrop, the story doesn't quite make sense. But discovering it is a revelation. Has a little bit of a Fiddler on the Roof vibe, too. I must admit, though, that I was a tad squicked by the affectation of an accent ...

[Skye · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up
Listened via audiobook on LeVar Burton Reads

You know, I think I was enjoying myself the entire time. Not outrageous joy, but having a good time. Also, I love this take on Archangel Gabriel.

[Jasmine Jones Hopewell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful. Spiritual. Purposeful. Superb in its simplicity.

[Cozette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love, love listening to Levar.. this story hit my heart… great inspirational short story!!!

[Cami]

This one was sweet, I wanted a little something more from it but I don't know what exactly.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really great short, I enjoyed the mixture of whimsy and wistfulness. Also, a little bit of a subtle lesson about Hajj for those who may not be familiar with the practice.