Reviews

When it comes to questions of life after death and humanity’s connection to the universe, there are many schools of thought. Religions around the world have taught of special places such as heaven for the righteous and dark places such as hell for the wicked, while others believe in a more scientific nature in which the body and soul are meant for nothing more than energy and returning to the planet itself once death comes for them. Yet there are other theories that transcend those schools of thought and delve deeper into spirituality and even some advanced scientific theories. One such school of thought revolves around past lives, or the idea of reincarnation and drawing upon lives lived throughout history. The concept of past lives is what draws readers into author Douglas Norman’s, A Gift of Remembrance, Personal Growth Through Past Life Exploration. The book is a non-fiction story presented in a fictional way, allowing the author to tell of their own true experiences remembering past life events by giving his story into the fictional narrators of the novel. When a man named “Mike” inherits the manuscript of a friend named “Jack,” he discovers that Jack began to remember a previous life as a General in the American Civil War, and it sent him on a personal journey of spirituality, accepting his role in his past life and the responsibility of what happened during that time. Immediately the reader is struck by the balance the author found in the fictional narrative that they embedded their non-fiction experiences in. The emotional connection readers build with “Mike” as he is drawn further and further into his friend’s manuscript embodies the emotional journey the author went on during their past life emergence. The imagery and use of history really painted a picture in the reader’s minds, allowing them to feel transported to the Battle of Gettysburg in a unique way. The structure of the narrative itself was also fantastic, as it took time out of the fictional story to draw readers towards the real historical events and figures that connected the author to this particular past life. History and spirituality are two of the cornerstones of this book, with an emphasis on the Civil War and metaphysical studies drawing the reader in, as well as a loose genre fiction narrative as well. The heart and passion for which the author writes this story connects the reader to the past life experience, as well as the true nature of life during the American Civil War. The vast amount of research and exploration into past lives and reincarnation was astounding, allowing readers to see the truth of these metaphysical experiences and become both entertained and educated all at once. For those interested in spiritual growth, and the concept of reincarnation, this book is a fascinating read. A Gift of Remembrance, Personal Growth Through Past Life Exploration challenges conventional perceptions of identity and encourages a deeper understanding of the self. Even if the reader doesn't fully embrace the idea of past lives, the book provides valuable insights into healing, self-awareness, and the continuous journey of the soul.

Wow-this book blew me away! As a civil war buff, I have always been obsessed with Pickett’s charge as a major turning point in the civil war. And to hear it from the prospective of a spirit that was there as General Pickett was fascinating. Not only was it a great historical prospective, it brought me inside Pickett’s mind and soul as he navigates his life after the war. I would think it would take another lifetime to accept the magnitude of the tragedy that our country has endured and the suffering of the countrymen that survived it. The author teaches us that forgiveness for ourselves is the greatest lesson and transmutes the pain and affliction of the past. Thank you Douglas Norman for enlightening us with your sacred story.

Past Life Experiences? A MUST Read! The Author's memoir strengthens my belief in the existence and power of past life experiences. The Confederate detail, historically based, coupled with passionate descriptions, underscores believability. While Jack's life as a Confederate soldier is the vehicle, the book's underlying theme of personal discovery and forgiveness is well worth reading. On a personal note, while visiting the National Portrait Museum some years ago, I wandered into a Civil War exhibit that featured a bust of General George Pickett. Having had the privilege of knowing "Jack", I remain astonished by his physical likeness to Pickett!!

A Gift of Remembrance is an incredible story of self discovery. It shares the passionate pursuit of the many facets of life that can unfold if one is aware and seeks truth. The story inspires the reader to be courageous and to be ready for the beauty that is ready to be seen and felt.

As a thought-provoking book, "A Gift of Remembrance" is a triumph! Author Douglas Norman is a skilled writer, and I'm grateful to him for providing the glimpse into a riveting, personal journey and the inspiring takeaways.