Tag, you're It! What a delight to
slowly discover that the main character, Tag, is a turtle. And what
a surprise to gradually realize that Tag is really "me." Shirley Ryan's book, "Searching for
the Waters of Antiquity," is such a simple tale of creatures in fantasy
gardens that it would delight young children, yet it has a deeper level
with many metaphors for life. I was so grabbed by the story and identified
with Tag and all of his fears, hesitations, curiosity, and need to grow,
that I read the entire book in one sitting. And then found myself reading
it again a week later, gaining even more insight.
Throughout, I felt personally guided by the author through the gardens
of life. I loved that each of the three sections has an introduction
and an epilogue where the author elaborates on the many metaphors. Tag
eventually faces four doors labeled "Love," "Compassion," "Affection" and "Impartiality," signifying universal
desires, which he must enter in his process of transformation. We see him hesitate
at each door, feel his fears, and then the exhilaration when he has learned something
new and made a change in his life. My favorite door was the one of "Affection" where
he learned that "affection is a gift of acceptance that you give to everyone
with words and deeds."
As an artist, I responded to the beautiful illustrations on nearly every
page. Shirley Ryan certainly writes and paints from her heart and the story
is illuminated with color and joy. "Searching for the Waters of Antiquity" is
a charming and poignant story which I know I shall enjoy reading many more
times. It has universal appeal for all cultures and religions, the perfect
gift for family and friends of all ages.
JoAnne Tepper
Artist, Petaluma, CA
