Richard Bach has returned to his famous inspirational novella “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” as he recovers from a near-fatal plane crash in Washington state.
The 76-year-old author told The Seattle Times that the book originally had four parts — not the three that were published in 1970 in what became an international best-seller. But after four months in a Seattle hospital with brain, chest and spine injuries, Bach finished the fourth part and sent it off to his publisher a few weeks ago.
In the new section, the flock struggles to find meaning. They first worship Jonathan, then write him off as a myth as years pass before his return.
He credits his wife, Sabryna Bach, 42, with supporting and inspiring him during his recovery. They live on Orcas Island.
Bach was piloting a single-engine aircraft that clipped power lines and crashed on San Juan Island last August.
Bach remained in a coma for more than a week. Brain injuries affected his ability to walk, speak and perform the most basic of tasks. Until last month, Bach shuttled between the hospital and a nearby recovery center.
Work on the book has given Bach the confidence to get his recovery on track, his wife said.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION | Register here
We welcome comments. Please keep them civil, short and to the point. ALL CAPS, spam, obscene, profane, abusive and off topic comments will be deleted. Repeat offenders will be blocked. Thanks for taking part — and abiding by these simple rules. A thorough explanation of rules of conduct can be found in our Terms of Service. If you have any questions, including why your comment may not be showing immediately after you submit it, be sure to visit the commenting FAQ.