Gift of the Jaguar

by John Franklin, Sharon Franklin (Contributor)

In Gift of the Jaguar, the ancient wisdom traditions of Peru are interwoven into a spiritual parable about the path to joy. Guilt-ridden over his sister's death, Juan encounters a black jaguar and is confronted with his own fear of dying but with a strange twist. He can see through the jaguar's eyes. Desperate for help, he reaches out to his friend Rosa, and her grandfather, the shaman Don Francisco, and enters into a world where the jaguar becomes a teacher of life and death. Sent on a journey of initiation to a sacred mountain, Juan uncovers the truth about his sister and discovers a secret that will change his life. In this beautifully crafted story, the reader travels on a surprising journey of self-discovery.

228 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this rich and exotic story. The scenes are wonderfully created with just enough detail to bring them to life, but not so much as to inundate or weigh the scenes down with unneeded adornment. I found the book emotional and gripping, as well as pleasant to read.

And, though I enjoyed the book a great deal, I do have to say that I wish it was packaged as just a story and not as an ancient wisdom parable. That shouldn't touch the story, but I have such an instant negative reaction to texts put forth as shamanistic mysticism that I couldn't help thinking of that as I read. It made me try to poke holes more instead of just enjoy the story and see what happened in my mind underneath. It made parts of the story seem shallower than I think they really were, just because of my mental guard going in. I can understand why the story is presented that way, and for people who are looking for that sort of book it would be perfect. For me, though, it would have been much stronger for the story to just be put out there as a story. That's just me, though.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once in a while a book comes along that demands to be read not only with the head, but must truly be experienced with the heart. In this mystical parable we discover that dreams are not frivolous luxuries to be put away at the end of childhood but the very food that feeds the soul and allows us to step into the life we are created to live. This inspiring and uplifting book is a wonderful catalyst for gaining a broader perspective of our selves and our relationship to the world around us. I loved it!

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have just started the book and I am already mesmerized. I've been to Peru with John and Sharon and love the ability they have to describe mysticism, and a journey of initiation and self discovery with wit and integrity.
I have the feeling that this book will be The Alchemist for this generation. The metaphorical wisdom will live for evermore.

[John Franklin]

I launched Gift of the Jaguar on October 6 where it reached #27 on the Amazon religion/spirituality best seller list.

I finally read it for the first time without editing or proofing, but just for the joy of it. Obviously biased, I enjoyed it immensely. For those who want more information, go to www.giftofthejaguar.com. You can also read reviews on amazon.com.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book about the levels of perception, and about a shamans journey. It is fictional, but based on fact. Having graduated from THE FOUR WINDS in shamanic practice, I was facinated and inspired when I read this page turning book. I have met the authors and they are very special people.