Phyllis Strupp Reviews

Added June 18, 2004

The Richest of Fare

Author: Phyllis Strupp
Publisher: Sonoran Cross Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: February 2004
Genre: Nonfiction: Inspirational
Format: Paperback
Price: $24.95
ISBN: 0-9746727-0-X
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo

The Richest of Fare offers readers a wealth of ideas!

This book explores the connection between great spiritual leaders and their times in the desert. The author makes the point that the solitude and barrenness of the desert actually gives life to the spiritual side of man, thereby allowing a deeper understanding and relationship to develop between man, nature, and God. To bolster her opinion, the author quotes from a variety of sources, including the Bible and Darwin. This eclectic assortment of ideas gives the reader much to contemplate.

Since the author actually lives in the Sonoran Desert, her insights about this area were wonderfully described. With over fifty color photographs of the desert, as well as interesting commentaries on the plant and animal life, this book causes readers to understand the inherent beauty of this area. While many may consider the desert to be only sand and sun, the author digs deeper, to show with words and stunning photographs, the life that is present. This, of course, backs up the premise of the book, which states that there is a richer, deeper life for everyone, if we only step outside of the boundaries of this modern world and slip into the solitude of nature and ourselves.

The author leads her readers on a journey into the realm of spirituality, not religion. Many of the ideas expressed are outside of traditional Judeo-Christian beliefs. While readers may disagree with her on several points, this book could produce stimulating conversations. There is definitely a connection between great spiritual leaders and their desert experiences. A thoughtful and prayerful reading of this book will encourage readers to verbalize and internalize their beliefs.

The Richest of Fare offers readers a table full of New Age ideas, gleaned from both ancient and contemporary sources, as well as nature itself.

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