Pilgrimage: The First Book of the People

Zenna Henderson (1917-1983) was a wonderful sci-fi writer. With a quite brief short stories production she has earned an unforgettable place in the heart of sci-fi fans. The first of his amazing stories I've read was "Pottage" published in a sci-fi magazine and was enthralled by the author's sensibility and depiction of a backwater dull village. The affection shown by Melodye for her young pupils and her courage to liberate them and their families from their doom touch a soft spot in my heart and leave me wanting to read more People's stories. Thru the years I was able to read "Ararat" and "Gilead" but my wont wasn't satisfied, so I was delighted to find "Pilgrimage: The Book of the People". This remarkable collection of the first six stories of the series is a gem. Artfully linked by Lea's interludes the stories are presented as coherent bunch. IMHO the best of all of them is "Captivity" depicting with unusual force the tale of rebellious yet tender Francher kid and Miss Carolle her redeemer. It is a great short stories collection that will be enjoyed by every sci-fi adept as well as by any soft heartened reader. Enjoy Zenna's earlier tales! Reviewed by Max Yofre.

I have to agree with the other review. The people are to real. I base most of my beliefs and my life on this book and the other books about the people. It has helped me with raising my children and with handling all of lifes issues. A must for all to read!

I have devoured every one of Zenna Henderson's books on the People, with the nagging conviction that there was very little "fiction" about it. It seems to me the abilities of the People are abilities we might well have had in the past, and forgotten. Perhaps with the raising of consciousness that is occurring now, we may just be able to remember. For the sake of the world, I hope so. I believe it was her books read as a young teenager which started my own explorations into what being 'Human' means and what we might really be capable of if we try.