Young Brooke is tired of feeling like a nuisance and yearns to be poised like her older sister, Lina, but such a metamorphosis feels perpetually out of reach. On the day Lina sets out for college, Brooke loses track of the family dog, Zelda, and must dash into the woods in pursuit. Brooke hurdles through the forest and suddenly finds herself with Zelda in an alternate world deep within a labyrinth. In this metaphysical place, Zelda can speak. She explains that the labyrinth is a simulacrum of Earth. It is here that Zelda will teach Brooke how to lead a mindful existence, just as she did for Lina. Zelda believes perception is deception, and most people in the world remain ignorant, living without being fully present. Through her first lesson, Brooke learns the meaning of compassion and returns home buoyed by her newfound skills. She is ready for the next lesson with Zelda and the next adventure to come.

On her first trip into the labyrinth, Brooke undergoes an almost meditative journey, with lessons not only of compassion and nobility but also of spirituality. The author creates a near mage in Zelda, who serenely bestows bits of wisdom to aid Brooke in her growth toward a conscious life. While Brooke arrives a hesitant pupil, her trust in Zelda and willingness to try her best set her on a path of continued discovery and connection. The story is reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland. With its whimsical pitfalls and colorful scenery of forest creatures, everything is seemingly alive in an unusual fashion. Each chapter is interspersed with hand-drawn cartoons, balancing the fable with youthful images of action within the escapade. The author leaves breadcrumbs within a hopeful ending, teasing future Brooke and Zelda adventures, with many more lessons on the way.

A 2024 Eric Hoffer Book Award Spiritual Fiction Honorable Mention

Return to USR Home