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In April 1982, ethnobotanist Wade Davis arrived in Haiti to investigate two documented cases of zombis — people who had reappeared in Haitian society years after they had been officially declared dead and had been buried. Drawn into a netherworld of rituals and celebrations, Davis penetrated the vodoun mystique deeply enough to place zombification in its proper context within vodoun culture. In the course of his investigation, Davis came to realize that the story of vodoun is the history of Haiti — from the African origins of its people to the successful Haitian independence movement, down to the present day, where vodoun culture is, in effect, the government of Haiti's countryside.
The Serpent and the Rainbow combines anthropological investigation with a remarkable personal adventure to illuminate and finally explain a phenomenon that has long fascinated Americans.
"Zombis do come back from the dead, and Wade Davis knows how." — Washington Post Book World
"An account solving one of the most puzzling biological mysteries of all time." — Omni
I initially became interested in this book after writing an adventure novel set in 1935 Haiti which contained a fictionalized account of voodoo. Naturally I was drawn to the Wade Davis's Serpent and the Rainbow.
Containing close to 300 pages with fast-paced chapters I found this to be a great value. Not only does it satisfy a person seeking an adventure novel (which it is) or as a guide to native cultures and anthropology (does this too) but also as a sort of mystery. Indeed a murder mystery whereby the victims refuse to play their roles and keep returning from the dead!
I understand that since the publication of this book, some in the scientific community want to dismiss this important work. Until these skeptics spend the time, energy and effort that was expended by Wade Davis in his epic search for the truth; it would be my suggestion that they study a bit more in order to catch up.
The casual reader as well as the research type will enjoy this well made book. I greatly appreciate the work the author put into this material. And finally, to agree with the other reviewers - No, this is not at all like the movie.
I can also recommend an oldie but goodie - Voodoo Fire in Haiti
I hope you find my opinion helpful.
Michael L. Gooch
Author of Wingtips with Spurs
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Rating: 3.5 stars
The Serpent and the Rainbow is a somewhat slow first-hand account of the search for the truth behind zombis. Wade Davis weaves together mysticism, ethnobotony, anthropology and history. Overall, it was a pretty interesting tale Wade wove. I especially enjoyed learning some of the history of Haiti and her African roots. There were parts though that bored me. The movie is much more exciting, but if you're interested in the real story written by the man himself you should read the book.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Anonymous
Posted July 26, 2011
Can get a bit repetitive at times.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Emia
Posted March 24, 2011
An informative read, but ocassionaly rambling and dull.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Snacksthemaster
Posted February 7, 2010
I Also Recommend:
This Book by Wade Davis, a professor at Harvard is a very good book for reading and general information about voodoo. I like the mix of science and reilgion, and the paradox of freewill and to think this book is not fiction but nonfiction and really happen. Now if anyone is like me and read alot and expand one,s intellect then this book is the one for you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
0 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 1, 2010
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Posted November 16, 2011
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Overview
In April 1982, ethnobotanist Wade Davis arrived in Haiti to investigate two documented cases of zombis — people who had reappeared in Haitian society years after they had been officially declared dead and had been buried. Drawn into a netherworld of rituals and celebrations, Davis penetrated the vodoun mystique deeply enough to place zombification in its proper context within vodoun culture. In the course of his investigation, Davis came to realize that the story of vodoun is the history of Haiti — from the ...