The Singing Creek Where the Willows Grow: The Mystical Nature Diary of Opal Whiteley

It was an honor to read this book. I'm indebted to Benjamin Hoff for writing a biography and afterward worthy of her, and for presenting the book to us as he does. I cried multiple times, overwhelmed by this little girl who sees and hears everything with so much love and purity. Her type of person is one who should have been protected. It is appalling that she ended up in a mental hospital. This world is such a harsh place, like the line from the song Vincent by Don MacLean, "the world was never meant for one as beautiful as you." Ironically though, it was, we all were. She was so tuned in to the natural world that her family had no patience with her, they did not understand or appreciate her. She was the recipient of numerous spankings and switchings, yet she had no resentment, no retaliatory reactions. She loved all things so much. As Benjamin Hoff said, no one questions that Mozart was a child prodigy, why could she not have been one as well? I think John Muir, St Francis, Jane Goodall, David Attenborough, Helen Keller such people as they, -- the poets artists and musicians and naturalists would have loved her. I wish Mark Twain could have met her. She was a treasure. I plan to give this book as a gift many times.

I keep buying copies of this book and giving them to friends. I do not generally re-read books. I have hundreds on shelves unread so far. And once read, I give away. Except Opal. I seem to need several copies on hand in case by accident I lose track. Not exactly sure why this so moves me. Well, I fell in love with my partner while living far apart, and we read this genius writing aloud on the phone. Then again once when I moved to be near her, then again a year later after moving in together. But that's not it.Maybe it's because I was smart child who could express none of it. For decades. If I had met Opal, I do believe she could have tamed me and taught me to engage with life (Nature) as she did with the animals and the loggers' children. Her giftedness had an audience, even before her diary was discovered and printed in 1920. I would have followed her to the 'cathedral' she planted in the forest for her ceremonies with the wild, enthralled animals who trailed after her on her 'explores'.It will actually make me personally happy if you will read the diary and Hoff's biography of Opal. The world will seem a safer, saner place to me, the more of us who know her.

I am astounded and captivated by the writings of this literary prodigy. Opal was a beautiful, child of 6 with the uncany ability to communicate in written format when she wrote this diary. She was extremely sensitive and misunderstood especially by the abusive mother she coined "the mamma"I wonder how much of this book influenced A.A. Milne in Winnie the Pooh as there are many similarities. This moving book has enlightened me in many ways... many tears and much joy and laughter. It is a must read for those who understand poetry, the art of Being, the peace, joy and solitude found in the forest and with animals. Also for those with a positive mind and outlook!I do not think Opal was Schizophrenic by today's standards Opal Whitely was a conservationist, veterinarian and Ecologist!Thank you Benjamin Hoff for bringing it to light :)

The whole book is fascinating. The first half is Opal Whiteley's biography, the rest is her material which she began writing as a small child. I am so glad I ran across her name online somewhere, and was able to get this copy.

I want to say thank you to Benjamin Hoff for your tenacity in seeing that Opal got the validation she needed for being a clever writer at the age of 6. This book furthermore demonstrates the mistreatment, and misunderstanding of those who are deemed different. Opal had psychosis, and she was shunned. Truthfully, she had more to teach us than the beauty of nature, or the love of writing. If she had not always been shoved away, perhaps she could have taught us all how to hear the music in the bell flowers.~ This will be one of those books that I will keep on the shelf of my heart.Gratefully,Holly Davis,[...]

For the mystical nature person this is a MUST read. Whiteley’s writing style is unique and charms adults and child within.

Absolutely fascinating book. One of the keepers I will have on my bookshelf forever. Her life is just as fascinating as her diary! The author has gone to tremendous effort in researching this amazing girl and woman. The only point I tend to disagree with is his conclusion that her angel parents were all in her mind and did not exist. After doing further research into the matter, I find that there is much to suggest that this little girl was in fact, actually adopted after all!

It takes while to wade thru the inroduction. Opal's story itself is sweet in its innocense, as in whenshe and a friend consumed a bottle of Castoria.and were surprised at the aftereffects. She seemsto hold no animosity to the woman she calls "the Momma" who assigns her chores, etc.

Second copy bought as a present as I thought it was a great book.Unlike any other book I've ever read. The Preface/Introduction and Afterword are essential and you should read the whole thing front cover to back cover. I'm in the camp of thinking the original text is absolutely genuine and I think I know why. The afterword became quite personal to me, but that is another story.

This book radiates truth it’s energy is palpable of the most high. An exquisite reflection of seeing the world through clear innocent eyes of a child. Moving and beautiful a world of connection and love. Thank you

Well, maybe not life changing, but certainly takes you to a bigger view of the world and our relationship with it. A little hard going in places, but that just adds to the depth of understanding and connection when you get out the other side.

Book arrived like new.Started reading and excellently written ...so interesting.

A piece of history I never knew,