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Wizard of the Upper Amazon

The Story of Manuel Córdova-Rios

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Wizard of the Upper Amazon

By: F. Bruce Lamb
Narrated by: Kirk Magoon
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About this listen

A richly-detailed real-life account of ancient tribal life and the fascinating role of Ayahuasca in the heart of the Amazon.

Wizard of the Upper Amazon provides an insightful depiction of a South American tribal society at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the captivating world of the Huni Kui tribe and their deep-seated connection with Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogenic plant. With the resurging interest in Ayahuasca today, this account offers a valuable and historical perspective, unveiling its traditional uses in day-to-day tribal life.

Our narrator, Manuel Córdova-Rios, takes the reader along on his extraordinary journey from a young boy taken in by the tribe to a respected healer. His accounts illustrate a unique societal fabric where plant medicine is a teacher, telepathy a communication mode, and clairvoyance a revered skill. In comparison to the modern ceremonial use of Ayahuasca, Córdova-Rios paints an enlightening picture of how this substance is entwined with various aspects of tribal life, from hunting practices to dispute resolution.

Wizard of the Upper Amazon is a rare look into a world that remains largely unexplored and elusive. According to reader reviews, the book delivers engaging insights into tribal life and Ayahuasca's role within it. This real-life tale invites readers to immerse themselves in the tribal world's intricate dynamics and to appreciate the deep wisdom and traditional practices of the Amazonian people. A classic read for those interested in indigenous cultures, shamanism, or plant medicine, this book offers a robust exploration into a time and place far removed from our own.
Americas Anthropology Indigenous Peoples Other Religions, Practices & Sacred Texts Social Sciences South America United States Native American

Critic reviews

"This is one of the three or four best books I have ever encountered."—Peter Warshall, The CoEvolution Quarterly"A rare glimpse of the private life of a Peruvian healer."—Andrew Weil, M.D., author of the The Natural Mind
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