Book 1 Summary

"In the beginning there was a river. The river became a road and the road branched out to the whole world. And because the road was once a river it was always hungry." Life and death intermingled. There was no fear, only an understanding with the spirit world. Rebirth was common and many people looked forward to "birth" (death) with pleasure. There was a great, wise king who had lived many lives in this fashion. His deeds were easily spotted throughout history. This king spoke to Lazaro just before his "birth." He was born smiling, even though he was told that he would be a "mischievous one" who would cause much trouble and travel many roads.

Lazaro had many visions as a child where he had lived many lives before. At times it became difficult to tell them apart. He heard voices, which...