Gifts of Unknown Things: A True Story of Nature, Healing, and Initiation from Indonesia's Dancing Island

Someday, I will write a real review. For now, Watson's "Gifts" is no ordinary ethnography. It speaks deeply of metaphysical paradigms and the clash of Islam (or any other established "My way or the highway" religion, for that matter) with autochthonous spirituality. We are talking about the extinction of true indigenous magic by mass-market religious mundanity, backed by authoritarian brutality. This is a glimpse into the waning moments of a lost universe.

This is one of the most interesting books I have ever read. Tia is an unforgettable character. Watson is a brilliant and talented writer. This book is the kind of blending of science and mysticism that I LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! I especially loved it because it took place in Indonesia.

I have enjoyed all Lyall Watson's books, but this one is special. It conveys very poignantly what "modernity" has lost in the extinction of indigenous cultures, namely direct, personal spiritual contact with the Universe. Truly an invitation to the "dance of life."

I think Mr. Watson did an interesting twist by candy wrapping many ideas and philosophies under the guise of a memoir. I enjoyed it a lot. At times I felt like certain aspects did not fit as tight as others with the narrative but it didn't deter me from enjoying his work. A very good read.

This book made me a better person and I have to promote it because of that fact. It opened my eyes to a world not mesmerized by modern magicians "PHD holders" and gave me the proof that I needed to look in places not so popularly solicited. The down side is it's extremely dry in parts and requires full dedication to complete.

This is an incredible and somewhat disturbing book! It is easy to read and the story is very easy to follow, but it contains many, many ideas that may take some time to accept. I read the book, and then reread several of the passages just to be sure I had read them correctly. I strongly recommend this book to anyone interested in seeing life in a new way.

One of the best of Lyall Watson's books that I have read so far, but the main focus of this story is a young Indonesian dancer and the way her life transforms a man of science through a mystical adventure over many months.This story would easily make a fascinating movie experience, or stage play in my opinion.Many things to ponder here.

Lyall Watson waited more than a few years to write this book not wanting to damage his scientific reputation I assume. It is one of the most amazing true stories I've ever read and one of the very few books I've read more than once (and I read a lot). Exquisite in every way.

Bought as a Christmas present for my dad (on the understanding we share it lol) but he's very pleased.

Someone on FB recommended this. A fascinating account of spiritual beliefs and practises in the 'south seas' and the unexplained magic that was an everyday occurrence for the community on one isolated island.

A delightful and thought-provoking book. So glad I found it all these years after reading Supernature and The Romeo Error.

Wonderful story, effortlessly interweaving the natural and the supernatural.

all good