The Sandspur

Issue date: 9/11/06 Section: News

DIVING DEEP: "Shadow Diver" author Robert Kurson talks to incoming freshman about his fi rst book.

Many different works of literature have had an impact on society and culture in ways not thought imaginable. One of these books is Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson.

This masterpiece of creativity and literary genius accounts the story of two divers, forced to put all they had on the line in order to follow their dreams. For first year students at Rollins, this was a good choice for mandatory summer reading, as it gave us a perspective on the college journey we are just beginning to dive into.

The author paid a visit to our campus during orientation week, and described in great detail his pursuit of realizing his dreams in becoming a writer. For all of us in the Rollins community, this proved to be a magical experience. While the book itself was nothing short of inspiring, Kurson's visit proved to make this a monumental part of not only our college experience, but of our lives.

One Rollins first year student, JD said "I think that shadow divers is an interesting book, and Kurson's visit to Rollins really made my orientation complete." It is a very rare occasion that you meet a writer of such great magnitude. Kurson has really enhanced the experience of Rollins students as he demonstrated the great changes we go through in life, and the importance of going out, and pursuing your dreams, despite petty obligations or inhibitions.

It is one thing to read a book, but it impact is so much more while when you meet and listen to the author. Another Rollins student, Ryan, said, "Kurson has inspired me to do great things. I know that my education at Rollins is going to help me in my life's endeavors, and Kurson helped show me the way."

Kurson has a very interesting background from before his days of writing. He used to be a lawyer, but didn't get the satisfaction from his job, which he yearned for.

Shadow Divers was his first book, and allowed him to express his creativity in ways never though imaginable. His book is even going to be made into a movie next year. Interestingly enough, Kurson had to surrender rights to the book in order for it to be made into a movie.

The director and screenwriter have license to do what they please with the story, and Kurson has absolutely no input. This must be very difficult for Kurson, as he poured his time, sweat and storytelling skills into this book, and must rely on another person to interpret it and retell it.

However, the book is very well written and has a very clear direction and purpose. In a few weeks, diver John Chatterton will be visiting Rollins and will give us even more insight to the stories told by Kurson.

Shadow Divers was a great choice for summer reading for incoming freshmen. This story resonates with many different, especially college freshmen who are beginning the journey to adulthood and independence. Perhaps Kurson will return in four years at our graduation, to represent our rise to the top of the sea in glory.

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