THE THOREAU WHISPERER

How to describe this book by Cathryn McIntyre, other than say it is by far one of the most interesting and unique books I’ve read in a long time! Although it is a more of a ‘true-story memoir/biography’, it reads as riveting as a fiction novel…I’ve never read anything about channeling spirits before, and before reading this I’d probably say that I didn’t really believe that is something that could be done. But after reading this book… I can’t swear on anything, but it really genuinely seems like something extraordinary is happening here!! Regardless if it was all a ‘true experience’ or not, I’ve always had a fondness for Thoreau – I’m certainly no expert, but I liked the guy’s style and he has some great ideas and writings. I am always interested in learning more things about influential people and it seemed like Ms. McIntyre might have some scholarly and personal insight into his life… and I was not disappointed! This is one fascinating ride into the author’s unusual and ultimately inspiring experience with her ‘visits’ from Thoreau and writing his story from his point of view, using his own voice and words. A truly mesmerizing literary experience. Perfectly edited and formatted with a smooth flow. Highly recommend. (5 stars) Sherrie Warner—Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

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In “The Thoreau Whisperer”, Cathryn McIntyre pulls us in to her world right from the opening pages, and skillfully narrates a wide-ranging storyline full of complex and existential and at time mind-bending issues while channeling the spirit of Henry David Thoreau, and using his own words. In my opinion it is the way we are right there with her as she goes through these different conversations with a voice ‘from the other side’ and combined with her own narrative based on her own life experiences that really makes it stand out for me in a very relatable way. Even we don’t all agree 100% on everything that is discussed (which is totally fine and the author never tries to ‘convince’ you of anything, and even confesses to her own concerns on how this book would be received) - there is so much valuable wisdom here on Thoreau’s life and on life in general. I found myself chuckling out loud on several occasions and could definitely see a lot of truth in these pages. I will be looking for more works by Cathryn McIntyre and am happy to see she has another published (“Spirit in Concord”). Recommend for fans of literary memoirs. (5 stars) Gillian Hancock—Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

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What a beautifully uplifting book with a powerful, positive message throughout. It is amazing just reading of Cathryn McIntyre’s experiences with channeling Thoreau – her background, her passion, the events that shaped the circumstances (her mentor and his passing), how her writing switched from being written by her to being written by someone… something… else entirely. These words reveal profound observations on life that can teach us all something. I like how easy it is to read and how well Cathryn explains everything how it happens, including her self-awareness on the controversial nature of this book. She shares her background and own personal experiences especially with regards to her connection with Thoreau and Concord, her mentor as well as being someone with psychic abilities. I myself believed every word, and more importantly I believed that Cathryn believed it – this isn’t some gimmicky fiction created to try to sell books for a quick buck. Those who don’t believe in psychics, mediums, spirits – they will have a tough time with this one, obviously (as they would most books on this topic, I suspect). But for those willing to engage in an open-minded, open-hearted exploration of things that cannot be ‘seen’ or ‘proven’ with our eyes or with science, and even if you aren’t that familiar with Thoreau, will benefit greatly from reading this remarkable book. Flawless presentation all around, from the formatting and editing and content, and obviously very well-researched and documented. Definitely recommend. (5 stars) Steph Coleman—Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers
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I was excited to read this book, because I adore Thoreau and have read much on and by him. However, I have never read anything that was written in this vein before: with an author ‘channeling’ the voice of a deceased persona and doing so in a way that the author’s words are those of the deceased. A little ‘out there’, admittedly, however this is not an entirely unheard-of phenomenon, and in fact, many books are said to have been inspired from ‘beyond the grave’. So I started reading, and was immediately entranced. Cathryn McIntyre has a very natural tone and writing style, that while unorthodox in subject matter, still is easy to grasp and you are never lost or confused. We are always there in the moment whatever is going on. Even when she touches on more abstract or metaphysical concepts, it is done in a way that invites the readers to make their own interpretations and decide what feels true or not- it is never forced on us. There is some great research here that I hadn’t read before, and nothing struck me as being obviously ‘wrong’ or ‘fake’, for what it’s worth. A truly wonderful read that touched my mind, heart, and soul, and is a great compliment to Thoreau or Walden fan’s library. (5 stars) Laura Clarke – Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

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After I read a book, I ask myself a few questions… was it well written? Does it have a clear plot (or point or premise)? Is it memorable? Does is affect/change me in some way? Make me think? Would I recommend to others? If these answers are all “yes” then I know I’ve stumbled on something special. That’s how I felt when reading “The Thoreau Whisperer” by Cathryn McIntyre. I’m not even sure that I’m necessarily the target audience as I am not overly literary or into any new agey things. I wouldn’t call myself a hardcore believer in things like mediums and psychics, but I also wouldn’t consider myself a ‘non-believer’ either. I know there’s a lot I don’t know, and I also know very little about Henry David Thoreau, but I have heard his name. I’m always open for learning new information regarding the unknown as much as the next person, and I was intrigued with this setup that Ms. McIntyre has going on here. If nothing else, I thought it might be interesting to hear what she/he have to say re: Thoreau’s life (and possible afterlife). I quickly found myself immersed in this book and felt a lot of respect for Ms. McIntyre and her journey, and for sharing her experiences in such a humble and unassuming way. Now I won’t debate the science/spiritual aspect behind this approach, but instead appreciate the takeaway which can certainly benefit all. I especially liked the ‘snippets’ at the end – talking of things ranging from happiness, flying, dying and more Layout wise I liked the structure of this book and the overall writing, with a balance of Thoreau’s words and Cathryn’s narrative. Some parts were a little over my head, but this is certainly a memorable read that delivers a great ‘message’. Would like to read more from McIntyre in the future. Recommend. (4-5 stars) Cody Brighton—Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers
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I admit I started reading “The Thoreau Whisperer” with a fair bit of skepticism as I’m not usually one to read these types of books, but I love Thoreau and was curious what this book may say. Happily enough, I found the engaging narrative to be quite compelling and down-to-earth (despite emanating from a ‘spirit’ who is no longer of this Earth!) and just loaded with authenticity and details of Thoreau’s life that give it the feel of a nonfiction biography, as well as a memoir of the author’s experience and background. The candid, intimate feel made it seem like they were talking to me personally at times -- I’m not sure if I totally agree with ALL of it, but that’s okay. I still got a lot out of it and really enjoy the author’s writing -- makes her points, and relate her ideas (and Thoreau’s) in ways that we all can fully and easily understand. I like that it alternates throughout, so it’s not too much of one or the other. Deep, complex and insightful, well-written, and well put together, and I actually feel like I learned a lot. A book that challenges you to see beyond the physical and into something deeper and greater than ourselves. Recommend. (5 stars) Stephan Beacher –Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

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This is a hard book for me to review thoroughly, because I have LOTS of thoughts on it. But I will start by saying it is beautifully written, heartfelt and wonderfully enlightening! I have read several books on the subject connecting with spirits, and even ‘past life experiences’. But this one stands out to me as being particularly realistic, especially when it is Thoreau talking – it seriously sounds like him! This absolutely one of the most addicting books I’ve read in a long time, and I so badly WANT to believe it, that I will. (see how that works??). It just felt so important, so profound and real – even if I didn’t fully get it ALL, I definitely got a lot. This book was written in a way that anyone could comprehend the general concepts Cathryn shares, regardless if you absolutely ‘believe’ it all or not, and it is all laid out including historical and personal/biographical information (documented facts) with Thoreau’s writings, perspectives and life experiences in a way that ties everything together and it all makes sense. The whole time you are reading this you feel like Cathryn is talking to you as a friend and Thoreau is sitting in the room with us. The “big picture” painted is one that leaves us with a much deeper knowledge and understanding of Thoreau that surprised me… Definitely recommend. (4.5 stars) Stacy Deckers—Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

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I absolutely loved this book! I really feel like I got a lot out of it- much more than I thought I would. It was very educational, but not in that dry, textbook sort of way, but incredibly personal and intimate and searching … questioning and pondering. I had no idea that I was going to be this impacted by this book, but by halfway through I felt like Cathryn McIntyre and I were fast friends and her journey was mine, and Henry David Thoreau was our host for a lovely, intimate get-together. It is really hard describing this book in a short paragraph, just that it is inspiring, truthful, profound, and perhaps controversial, depending on your beliefs. Some concepts might not align with more traditional, standard ways of thinking, but that is something that I think we could all agree that Thoreau would approve of. I applaud Cathryn for sharing her (and Thoreau’s) unforgettable story with us, and would absolutely encourage others to give it a shot as well. (5 stars) Essie Harmon—Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

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I’m not normally one for these types of books, I’ll just say that up front. I consider myself more of a ‘rational, logical’ thinker than an emotional or spiritual one, so I wasn’t really sure this would be my thing. But from the onset Cathryn McIntyre invites us into her life in a way that demands our attention and respect. I admire not only her candor and humility with her unique circumstances, but her talent in expressing her views, Thoreau’s, and additional biographical research and findings and crafting it all a way that is readable and entertaining, even while discussing some pretty surreal subject matters. Even if you don’t agree/believe in spirits or psychics, it is hard to deny that this is a compelling and well- written book that covers some pretty impressive territory in giving insight and inspiration into his life. I must have highlighted a dozen or two lines and passages – like “All who ever were still are and always will be”. A nice balance of spiritual discovery, candid insight, and literary analysis. Amazing! (4.5 stars) – Karen Matthews – Goodreads; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers