If there was one book that inspired my search for spiritual truth as a teenager, it was this book. I wasn’t alone as it topped the New York Times bestseller list for the best part of two years. It also inspired a generation to seek answers beyond those that we had been fed by the institutions and society for years. You can read the book in a couple of hours and you will never view seagulls at the seaside in the same way; if you’re like me, you can sit there for hours, watching for the one enlightened bird that is trying to seek something more than a seagull’s existence. In this book review of Jonathan Livingston Seagull, I’ll give you some facts, figures and my personal response to the book.
But here’s a quote that I love:
“To fly as fast as thought, to anywhere that is,” he said, “you must begin by knowing that you have already arrived.”
Now if that isn’t the Law of Attraction, I’ll eat my fish! 🙂
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Review Overview
Book Name: Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Author: Richard Bach with photographs by Russell Munson
My rating out of 10: 10/10
Print Length: Approximately 144 pages
Publisher: Scribner; Reissue edition (October 21, 2014)
Cost: Varies by format from around $7 to $20
Formats Available: Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audiobook
Worth a read? Definitely – it’s easy, inspiring and it isn’t just about the act of reading a book—it’s about experiencing a subtle shift in your own perspective that once felt, starts you on a path to inner wisdom that is unstoppable!
Who is Richard Bach?
Richard Bach is an ex-USAF pilot and his own love of flying shines through in his work, providing an allegory for spiritual search through this book and his other books such as “The Reluctant Messiah” and “The Reluctant Student”.
Richard’s success with Jonathan Livingston Seagull encouraged him to continue writing stories that challenge traditional views on life. His personal experiences make his work feel authentic, which is something that readers relate to. Over the years, Bach has continued to share anecdotes from his life that not only entertain but also offer a gentle nudge, asking his readers to question their own everyday limitations.
In addition to his literary contributions, Richard Bach has also engaged in discussions about the importance of creative freedom and the role of art in everyday decision-making. He often uses simple language to express complex ideas, making his work accessible while still leaving plenty of room for readers to mull over the deeper meanings hidden beneath the surface. This approachable style has earned him a loyal readership that appreciates both his storytelling and his philosophical musings.
What’s it About?
“Jonathan Livingston Seagull” or JLS as I like to call it, is a short story – a novella like “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. It centres on Jonathan Livingston Seagull, a seagull who is not satisfied with living by the same rules as the other seagulls and wants to find something more. Jonathan struggles with ideas of the limits he feels have been imposed on him by nature and the beliefs of the flock. Instead of accepting his lot, he goes against traditional ‘wisdom’ and chooses to test the boundary between what is known and what might be possible.
His journey takes him to the edge of his current consciousness and beyond, opening his eyes (and his wings) to the true nature of his reality and the freedom experienced when he discovers who he really is.
Summary of Content
Jonathan Livingston Seagull is structured in a way that combines a simple narrative with philosophical insights. The book is divided into sections that explore different stages of Jonathan’s adventure. and are accompanied throughout by images of seagulls. These sections include:
- The Call to Flight: In this opening section, Jonathan decides to test the limits of what is physically possible. His early attempts at flight break from the conventional lifestyle of a seagull, and he begins to explore manoeuvres not seen in his flock. This part of the book lays the groundwork for what is to come, as he rebels against the mediocrity of the flock’s ambition.
- The Adventure of Self-Discovery: As Jonathan hones his skills, he faces challenges that force him to question the rules around him. Can he fly faster and still survive? What would happen if he doesn’t?
- The Encounter with Mentors: Jonathan meets other seagulls who have also broken free from conventional limits. Their guidance offers him new perspectives on achieving true freedom through persistence and continuous learning. These interactions are not just incidental; they serve as essential turning points that help him refine his approach to life.
- The Return and Transformation: In the latter part of the book, Jonathan returns to his flock with a new understanding of flight and life. His experience provokes mixed reactions from those who continue to choose the safe path, but also serves to inspire a few like-minded individuals who want more.
Critical Reception
The book has sparked discussions since its release, and many readers have found its themes both refreshing and thought-provoking. Some critics appreciated the way Richard Bach crafted a simple narrative that carries a deeper meaning. Even though some reviewers noted that the storytelling is more allegorical than realistic, many consider that the allegory itself is one of the book’s strongest points.
Over time, Jonathan Livingston Seagull has enjoyed enduring popularity. The narrative challenges many social norms by offering an alternative view of life where individual passion and a search for the truth about who we are, can set you free.
There are many testimonials that talk about how the book changed their life or encouraged them to reexamine what they believed was possible in their own lives. I count myself as one of those who was, and still is, profoundly inspired by the book.
Reviews from Amazon
Overall, the sentiment is that Jonathan Livingston Seagull is a very valuable read for those who enjoy allegorical stories about ambition and self-improvement. It scores 4.7 out of 5. One of the biggest things that stands out from Amazon reviews is that many people love the simplicity of the language, saying that it allows for multiple layers of understanding.
My Final Thoughts
The book is clearly an allegory about seeking spiritual truth. Some see it as a metaphor for the life of Jesus or other spiritual leaders and it is so easy and quick to read that its simplicity defies its life-changing quality.
If you ever look at your life and think, “There’s got to be more to life than this”, then this is the book for you. This book set me on a journey to find spiritual truth, aged 17, that continues to this day. It has taken me on many twists and turns, like the flying exercises that Jonathan puts himself through. However, I have never looked back and I would recommend this book to anyone. Even if you think it all ‘nonsense’, I believe that somewhere, deep down in your soul, something will stir and you will ignite your own desire to know your true self. And from that, there is no turning away.
“Jonathan Livingston Seagull” is full of inspiring quotes. Here are a few gems to lift your spirits:
- “Don’t believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you’ll see the way to fly.”
- “You have the freedom to be yourself, your true self, here and now, and nothing can stand in your way.”
- “The gull sees farthest who flies highest.”
- “We can lift ourselves out of ignorance, we can find ourselves as creatures of excellence and intelligence and skill.”
- “You will begin to touch heaven in the moment that you touch perfect speed. And that isn’t flying a thousand miles an hour, or a million, or flying at the speed of light.
Formats and Cost
The book is available in multiple formats including paperback, hardcover, Kindle, and audiobook. Buy on Amazon now
The cost can differ slightly depending on the format and the retailer’s promotions.
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This book truly speaks to the soul! Jonathan Livingston Seagull is such a beautiful allegory for self-discovery and the pursuit of a higher purpose. I can see why it inspired so many to seek spiritual truth. The idea of breaking free from societal limitations and embracing your true potential really resonated with me. It’s amazing how a simple narrative can carry such deep philosophical insights, and the quotes you shared are definitely life-changing. Highly recommend this book to anyone looking to challenge their perspective and explore their inner self!
Hi JealousLi. Thanks for taking the time to read my review and reply. I’m so pleased that you like the book. As I said, it’s a favourite of mine and I’m glad you would also recommend the book to other people. Have a wonderful, ‘flying free’ day!