Jonathan K (Max Outlier)’s Reviews > One Long River of Song: Notes on Wonder > Status Update

For those who have enjoyed Brian's creative novels, I urge you to read this remarkable collection of essays and short stories. The reason being you'll get a better sense of his passion for animals, humanity and spirit that drive the plot of his fiction. A husband, father and award winning writer he stands apart from most and I'm saddened when I think he's no longer with us

Remarkable. Like savoring a great wine, this compilation of essays are fruit for thought and then some especially if you enjoy stories of love, compassion and joy though I was sad to read he lost his older brother at 64. And for those that follow Brian, he only made it to 60. My brother passed at 75, my father at 63.. A reminder to be grateful for each and every moment

How often do we see an author write an essay titled, Brian Doyle interviews Brian Doyle or whatever their name may be? Talk about a window into their mind! And talk about well read? Remarkable!

Absolutely stunning! While Brian's novels are magical, these essays, short stories and lyrical poems are awe inspiring. Such a loss to the world but grateful for his written legacy

At the end of an essay titled The Final Frontier, Brian writes, ".. You either walk toward love or away from it with every breath you draw. Humility is the road to love. Humility maybe is love..." Wonderful

Essays about an authors life, family, love and other topics give the reader a window into their minds that wouldn't be know otherwise. Just read one titled, Catch, where he shares a childhood experience with his father who wrote for a magazine and decided to play catch using a baseball. I found this terrific since we shared the identical experience of being hit in the face when young.

For someone who appreciates the art of story as much as I, it's startling that Brian is one of the least popular authors around. And I suspect it has much to do with his focus on spirit, love, wonder and family while steering clear of mystery, violence and darkness. Sorry if this offends all you mystery fans but it's my feeling that light is more inspiring than dark

As expected this series of personal essays sings of Brian's insights into spirit, life, love and family much as his remarkable novels. Reading the forward by his friend of 25 years is both uplifting and sad simultaneously.. I'm happy to say that I am a die hard member of his cult following but am deeply saddened by his loss