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Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 45 votes)
5 stars
15(33%)
4 stars
11(24%)
3 stars
19(42%)
2 stars
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45 reviews
July 15,2025
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I read "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek" after it was mentioned at church.

I was truly captivated by the section on Pennies. The phrase "What you see is what you get" really struck a chord with me.

The author's description of people receiving their sight was similar to that in "Crashing Through". It was as if a whole new world was opened up to them.

The vivid details and the author's unique perspective made the reading experience truly unforgettable.

I found myself reflecting on the beauty and wonder of the world around us, and how often we take it for granted.

"Pilgrim at Tinker Creek" has inspired me to look at the world with a new pair of eyes and to appreciate the simple things in life.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and inspiring read.
July 15,2025
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Parts are excellent,

while some are not so much.

This description implies a certain degree of contrast and complexity.

It seems that there is a duality within the subject matter.

The excellent parts might stand out for their outstanding qualities, perhaps being highly detailed, well-executed, or having a profound impact.

On the other hand, the parts that are not as good could be lacking in some aspects, such as clarity, coherence, or effectiveness.

The use of the term "very metaphysical" adds an additional layer of mystery and abstraction.

It suggests that there is something beyond the surface, something that requires deeper thought and reflection to understand.

Metaphysical concepts often deal with the nature of reality, existence, and the relationship between the physical and the non-physical.

Overall, this brief statement leaves room for further exploration and interpretation, inviting the reader to engage with the text on a more profound level.
July 15,2025
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Dillard cuts through the dense fog of habit and the web of self-delusion with great determination. She embarks on a profound exploration into the very heart of all that remains unknown to us about living in this vast and mysterious universe. Her writing is like a sharp knife, slicing through the layers of complacency and false beliefs that often cloud our perception. By doing so, she reveals the hidden depths and complexities of our existence. We are forced to confront the fact that there is so much we don't understand, yet she does it in a way that is both thought-provoking and inspiring. Through her words, we are invited to join her on this journey of discovery, to question our assumptions, and to open our minds to the limitless possibilities that lie beyond our current understanding.

July 15,2025
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This book has been sitting on my bookshelves for approximately 20 years. For one reason or another, whenever I was searching for something to read, I never bothered to take it down. Maybe it's because of the title. The Annie Dillard Reader simply doesn't arouse the reading senses. It sounds more like a title for an elementary school reading class.

However, once I finally did take it down and opened it up, I was truly amazed by the fearless writing, which is mainly autobiographical. Her struggle between the Christianity of her youth and the agnostic tendencies of her adult life is a recurring theme throughout the various selections included in the Reader. This struggle reaches its peak in her most famous work, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. Her observations of the most ordinary creatures in the insect, microbe, and animal world, seen through the agnostic lens against the backdrop of her Christian upbringing, result in a work that astonishingly intersects science and faith. It does so in a way that is far more profound and interesting than the hundreds of theology books that once filled my shelves and that I have taken down and read over the years.

This is a book for thinkers. It makes my brain engage in something other than just being curious about the confluence of characters and events in novels, whether they are mysteries or not. It challenges me to think deeply about life, faith, and the world around us.
July 15,2025
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Big chunks of 'literary epiphany', as described by one scholar, Sandra Johnson in 'A Space Between', come from one of my favorite authors of all time. This author has a unique way of presenting ideas and emotions that can truly astonish and enlighten the reader. The literary works are filled with profound insights and moments of clarity that make the reader stop and think. Each word seems to be carefully chosen to create a vivid and powerful image in the mind. It's as if the author has the ability to reach into the deepest recesses of the human psyche and bring out the hidden truths. The 'literary epiphany' experienced while reading these works is not only intellectually stimulating but also emotionally moving. It can change the way one views the world and oneself. It's no wonder that this author is held in such high regard by so many.

July 15,2025
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Annie Dillard is, as always, truly excellent.

This reader is a wonderful compilation that includes a diverse range of extremely well-written short stories. Additionally, it features excerpts from Dillard's captivating poetry and engaging non-fiction works.

The collection offers a rich and multi-faceted exploration of her literary talent. It is an absolute must-read for fans of Annie Dillard, as it provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of her unique writing style.

Moreover, for those who are new to her writing and渴望 an introduction, this reader serves as a perfect starting point. It allows readers to sample the breadth and depth of her work and discover the beauty and power of her words.

In conclusion, this reader is highly recommended for anyone with an interest in literature and a desire to explore the works of a remarkable writer like Annie Dillard.
July 15,2025
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Now that I have finally managed to "get into" reading this (it wasn't an easy feat at the beginning), I am truly astounded by Annie Dillard and her writing.

She is not a writer for everyone. However, for the persistent learner, the deep thinker who lingers on thoughts, those who have a voracious appetite for words, and those who enjoy creating vivid pictures in their minds while reading, she is a gem.

So far, I have really relished her shorter essays. At present, I am reading through the excerpt from An American Childhood.

It is a journey of discovery, as each word seems to unfold a new world and a new perspective.

Her writing style is unique, filled with vivid descriptions and profound insights.

I can't wait to explore more of her works and see where this literary adventure takes me.
July 15,2025
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Dillard's prose is like a seething cauldron of emotions and ideas.

It is a living, breathing entity that demands to be received and savored.

It serves as a prime example of the disinterested nature of true beauty.

It simply exists, unconcerned with external validation or praise.

Dillard's writing is witty, flowing, and poignant, making her a true master of the craft.

Her words have the power to transport readers to another world, to make them see things from a different perspective.

Anyone who has a passion for creative writing should make it a point to experience Dillard's words at some point in their lives.

It is an experience that will leave a lasting impression and inspire them to reach new heights in their own writing.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty and power of Dillard's prose.
July 15,2025
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Dillard's writing is exquisitely poetic. It has the power to make us stand in awe of the magnificent nature of creation. The way she describes the world around us is truly captivating. We are able to see the beauty and wonder that exists in even the most ordinary aspects of life. Her words paint vivid pictures in our minds, allowing us to experience the joy and excitement that she feels. Whether it's a description of a sunrise or a simple walk in the park, Dillard's writing makes us appreciate the little things in life. It reminds us that there is beauty and magic all around us, if only we take the time to look. Her work is a testament to the power of language and the ability of a writer to transport us to another world.

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