The Kin of Ata Are Waiting for You

Dorothy Bryant

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'The Kin of Ata Are Waiting for You' by Dorothy Bryant is a novel that explores a man's spiritual journey after a tragic event leads him to a mysterious island inhabited by people who live solely by their dreams. The novel delves into themes of self-discovery, spiritual enlightenment, and the power of dreams in guiding one's life choices. Through interactions with the inhabitants of the island, the protagonist learns valuable lessons about living in harmony with oneself and the world around them. The writing style is described as lyrical, dream-like, and thought-provoking, with a focus on spiritual and metaphysical content that challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values.

Characters:

Characters include a troubled writer facing redemption and the spiritually advanced Kin of Ata, who exemplify deep wisdom.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lyrical and dream-like, presenting complex ideas through a straightforward narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around a man's transformative journey in a dream-focused utopian society, emphasizing spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Setting:

The setting is a mystical island focusing on a utopian society that lives in harmony with dreams, contrasting modern societal issues.

Pacing:

The pacing is gentle and steady, but some find it occasionally lengthy.

I was almost bored. She stood in front of me like a woman out of one of my books. I had a sudden thought that I might have invented her: long legs, small waist, full breasts half covered by tossed blo...

Notes:

The book was originally published in 1971 under the title 'The Comforter'.

It blends elements of love story, science fiction, and spiritual allegory.

The story focuses on the Kin of Ata, who live primarily for their dreams.

The protagonist is a troubled writer who finds himself in a utopian island community.

The novel explores themes of spiritual growth and self-discovery.

The Kin of Ata strive to live without sin, guilt, or pain, and focus on joy and satisfaction.

It's often classified as new age fiction due to its metaphysical content.

Many readers find it can be interpreted at multiple levels, from fantasy to profound spiritual insights.

The book depicts the importance of dreams in guiding a simple, fulfilling life.

The writing style is described as lyrical and dream-like, enhancing the story's otherworldly feel.

Some critiques note problematic elements in the narrative, including a controversial rape scene.

Despite its age, readers find the book remains thought-provoking and relevant today.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of violence, such as the protagonist's past actions and a problematic depiction of sexual consent.

Has Romance?

The book features a medium level of romance, particularly through the protagonist's relationship with Augustine and themes of love and connection.

From The Publisher:

The Kin of Ata Are Waiting for You is part love story, part science fiction, at once Jungian myth and utopian allegory.

"Truly unforgettable!"-San Francisco Chronicle

The kin of Ata live only for the dream. Their work, their art, their love are designed in and by their dreams, and their only aim is to dream higher dreams. Into the world of Ata comes a desperate man, who is first subdued and then led on the spiritual journey that, sooner or later, all of us must make.

"A masterful novel . . . a beautiful, symbolic journey of the soul, the journey of a serious dreamer."-Berkely Monthly

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About the Author:

Dorothy Bryant's novels and plays use a variety of settings, from the allegorical island of The Kin of Ata Are Waiting for You to her own San Francisco Bay Area (Ella Price's Journal, Miss Giardino, Confessions of Madame Psyche), revolutionary…

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