One Drum

Fans of Richard Wagamese's writing will be heartened by the news that the bestselling author left behind a manuscript he'd been working on until shortly before his death in 2017. One Drum welcomes readers to unite in ceremony to heal themselves and bring harmony to their lives and communities.

In One Drum, Wagamese wrote, "I am not a shaman. Nor am I an elder, a pipe carrier, or a celebrated traditionalist. I am merely one who has trudged the same path many of this human family has — the path of the seeker, called forward by a yearning I have not always understood."

One Drum draws from the foundational teachings of Ojibway tradition, the Grandfather Teachings. Focusing specifically on the lessons of humility, respect and courage, the volume contains simple ceremonies that anyone anywhere can do, alone or in a group, to foster harmony and connection. Wagamese believed that there is a shaman in each of us, and we are all teachers and in the world of the spirit there is no right way or wrong way.

Writing of neglect, abuse and loss of identity, Wagamese recalled living on the street, going to jail, drinking too much, feeling rootless and afraid and then the feeling of hope he gained from connecting with the spiritual ways of his people. He expressed the belief that ceremony has the power to unify and to heal for people of all backgrounds. "When that happens," he wrote, "we truly become one song and one drum beating together in a common purpose — and we are on the path to being healed." (From Douglas & McIntyre)

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Interviews with Richard Wagamese

The Candy Palmater Show13:07How a library helped Richard Wagamese become a writer

Richard Wagamese has had a successful career as a journalist and author. His books have earned him accolades across Canada. But he may never have become a writer, were it not for the kindness of a group of librarians in St. Catharines, Ontario.

18:19Richard Wagamese on the Next Chapter

Author Richard Wagamese speaks to The Next Chapter host Shelagh Rogers about his novel Indian Horse.

More about Richard Wagamese

Other books by Richard Wagamese