Book review: A Glimpse of Eternity by Alejandro Tuama

Review by Nick Palmer

Alejandro Tuama's first-person account of a young man's journey of self-discovery through plant medicines is highly recommended to anyone with an interest in the subject, regardless of what stage they are at in their own journey.

The line from this book that stuck with me the most came when Nick, the story's protagonist, had been through his first round of ceremony and had later caught up with his traveling companions. When discussing his ayahuasca experience, one of his friends asked "Is it dangerous?", and Nick replied (after a pause) that, all things considered, it would probably be more dangerous to live your life without ever having drunk ayahuasca.

The account of Nick's journey is given warts-and-all. Many of those who are interested in ayahuasca, but are yet to experience it, will have heard about the amazing spiritual experiences, incredibly complex and beautiful visions, and extraordinary healings which ayahuasca can bring. But it can also bring disappointment, disillusionment and despair along the way - "it's not working", "nothing is happening", "I haven't gone anywhere!" Herein, I believe, lies the book's greatest strength - it neither glosses over nor plays down the very difficult aspects of an ayahuasca journey; rather, it examines them in fine detail, and provides the impetus for those who may have begun their journey in disappointment, to persist. For the rewards are great.

This is a book that could only have been written from first-hand experience, and it shows in every word. It is perfectly paced, a real page-turner. Adding to that, it is factually accurate and properly researched. I can't recommend this book highly enough, and with Christmas just around the corner, what a great gift idea!

Paperback or ebook copies of A Glimpse of Eternity can be ordered from here. Further information on the book is also available on Alejandro Tuama’s website.