Play Book Tag discussion

State of Wonder by Ann Patchett - 4 stars - My Review

Dr. Marina Singh is sent from her home in Minnesota to the jungles of Brazil by her employer, a pharmaceutical company. Her purpose is twofold – to find out what happened to her colleague, Dr. Anders Eckman, who has died of fever in the rainforest, and to determine the status of research on a new wonder drug being conducted by her former mentor, Dr. Annick Swenson. Dr. Swenson has been in the field for many years, but details have not been forthcoming.

This book is a slowly developing multiple mystery written in a literary style. The plot is science-based, including elements of botany, mycology, anthropology, and pharmacology. Dramatic tension is maintained by the obstacles Marina encounters in her journey, and there are quite a few, beginning with the fact that no one knows (or no one is telling) exactly where Dr. Swenson is located.

At forty-two, Dr. Singh still seems to be searching for her proper place in the world. Her journey helps her make decisions about her life, possibly sending it in a more rewarding direction. While it is difficult to like Dr. Swenson, she comes across as believable. She is analytical and pragmatic, sometimes appearing to be cold-hearted. The loveable mute eleven-year-old native boy, Easter, is a wonderful character. I admire the author’s ability to bring him to life without the benefit of dialogue.

This book examines a number of ethical and moral questions. Is it right to withhold information in the interest of the “greater good”? Should outsiders get involved in “helping” indigenous tribes, even at the risk of changing their cultures? What happens when the outsiders leave – are the people better off or worse? Is a new drug worth the possible detriments to an entire tribal society?

New medications and vaccines are constantly under development. Scientists are regularly discovering new species of plants and animals in sparsely populated areas. So, while one may need to suspend disbelief in places, the questions remain valid.

The audio book is beautifully performed by Hope Davis. She gives each character a distinct voice and capably handles a number of global accents. I found this book an engaging character study of a woman that undertakes a journey of profound change, while encouraging the reader to think about larger questions of what constitutes progress in our world.

Elizabeth Gilbert tells a fantastic story about the idea and genesis for this book by Ann Patchett in her non-fiction book Big Magic. I never forgot that story. Interesting premise.

Amy wrote: "Elizabeth Gilbert tells a fantastic story about the idea and genesis for this book by Ann Patchett in her non-fiction book Big Magic. I never forgot that story. Interesting premise."

Oh, wow, that sounds interesting, Amy. I will look it up. Thanks for the tip.