The Healing Woods

This is a refreshing and lyrical story story of a city-bred woman whose search for health in the wilderness opened up a whole new way of life. Given a choice between a third operation which doctors labeled "her last hope" and a gamble on the possibility of regaining her health in the open, Martha Reben chose to go off into the woods to camp on the shore of a remote lake. from the day she sets out with Mr. Rice, an experienced Adirondack guide, she begins to respond to the friendliness and good humor of the wild creatures around her campsite home. More than an account of her miraculous recovery, this is a true story brimming over with nature lore as seen through the inexperienced eyes of one, to whom these wonders are a new and fresh discovery. Just as a blind person who has regained sight is more sensitive to the world about him, so Martha Reben, having been desperately ill, reacts to wild life in its natural state with a heightened sense of appreciation. Beguiled by her immobility, eagles come to roost on the big pine above her. Deer, flying squirrels, and ducks pay daily visits to her woodland parlor, and even a robin perches trustingly on her shoulder. From the moment she witnesses the fierce flight of an eagle bent on freedom, she realized that her own fight for life followed the same pattern. Like a bird trying his wings and gradually gaining strength, she found that she was able to rely more and more on her own resources. But the book is not all serious. It is often very funny, too. As when the author and Mr. Rice met Wilfred, the eccentric naturalist who was searching for a red-bellied pike or when Martha Reben attempts to discourage an over-zealous landlord from "improving" the cabin she rented from him one winter. "The Healing Woods" is an inspiring experience that will linger with the reader for a long time. Its quiet charm is most intoxicating and perfectly reflects the peace and serenity Martha Reben found in the wilderness. -from the jacket flap