."" . . engrossing . . . Mr. Heard belongs with the poets...here is a book that may lift your heart."" --The New York Times ""The versatility of Gerald Heard is truly astonishing. Previous books have proven him to be a philosopher, a scientist, a theologian, a mystic, and a writer of mystery novels. And here is a fairy tale. But behind the tales are scientific facts and hypotheses--and in and through it all a religious purpose personified by Gabriel, the Archangel. For whether the creatures in their upward climb veered from the mainstream of life, or are kept close to the center of things depended on how often and how closely they listened to the always available words of Gabriel."" --Kirkus Reviews Gerald Heard (1889-1971) was a well-known author, philosopher, and lecturer. Trained as a historian at Cambridge, he served as the BBC's first science commentator. Later in California he founded and directed Trabuco College, which advanced comparative-religious studies. His broad philosophical themes and scintillating oratorical style influenced many people. Heard wrote thirty-eight books, including his pioneering academic works, several popular devotional books, and a number of mysteries.