THE WISE HEART - JACK KORNFIELD

RATING: C+

What is known as 'mood contagion' or 'limbic resonance' interests me from page 17 & continuing into 'mirror neurons' on page 26. I also found chapter three's recognition of know-mind and knowing something easy to relate to. I had found these from personal observation before knowing what to call them! I found the Buddha's words that open chapter 19 a helpful reminder. The chapter on concentration explains my pre-Buddhist practice/study abilities quite well.

I did find it difficult to jump from one mode of Buddhism to another so frequently - but that is me at fault and not the text. When first exploring Buddhism, I liked to read of all types, until settling into Thai Forrest and Tibetan Vajrayana. Then I became absorbed in these, and other forms slipped out of sight as I focused on what I personally round helpful and relevant. So this text reminded me that Dzogchen-Nyingma is not the only Buddhist practice and reacquainted me with other forms of Buddhism. However, I do find this difficult, as in its modern Western format Buddhism can be all mish-mashed together and not really retain the essence of any specific practice.

I would recommend this book to those interested in psychology from a Buddhist aspect, but not to serious students of a specific lineage or practice. I would also recommend the book to those interested in Buddhism but not yet involved with a personal study.

DZOG CHEN MEDITATION - KHAMTUL RINPOCHE/GARETH SPARHAM

RATING: A-

This is the sort of practice that I am working towards. I am not quite advanced enough in pranayama for this specific practice, yet though, and I shall have to wait until I can find a new teacher to continue my studies beyond where i am currently working. However, it can do no harm to be prepared for the next step...

I would recommend this book to those beginning Dzogchen practice as a hint of what lies ahead, those in the midst of it as a guidance, and those advanced as a companion.

THE EARLY LIFE OF THE DALAI LAMA TENZIN GYATSO - CLAUDE B. LEVENSON

RATING: B+

A detailed rendering of the early years of the life of HHDL. It zooms in to describe the time period starting from his birth and identification and leading up until his trek into exile. Covering his family, monasterial training and monkhood, his life as a child, and how events unfolded to bring him into the adult world in a rush, the book explores events covered in his biographies with more detail.

I would recommend the book to those seeking a detailed description of HHDL's pre-exile years as well as those who would like more information on HHDL's time in Tibet.

LOVE MORE. FEAR LESS. FLOAT MORE. STEER LESS. - JOHN HALCYON STYN

RATING:B+

A collection of essays that I found inspiring. Drawing from life rather than a specific religion, the overall attitude is parallel to Buddhism, with a preference for peace and love over hate and ignorance. I could relate to quite a few events and realizations mentioned. Same outcome, different path to my own life's learning course...

I would recommend the book to those interested in stepping off the 9-5 picket fence track to take a peek at reality, those interested in modern essays, and those searching for security within insecurity or just ideas pertaining to reality.

THE SELF SUFFICIENCY BIBLE - SIMON DAWSON

RATING: C-

Although I read the majority of the book - I do admit I skipped the chapters/parts relative to livestock and butchery - being a vegan, these simply had neither interest nor relevance....

A fairly good, yet rather basic book, detailing various areas and basic instructions on how to live the self-sufficient lifestyle. Personally, I would have preferred more detail and less generalization. Personally interesting points made come from ideas for furniture polish without beeswax and the fact that seaweed contains Vit B12...

I would recommend the book to those seeking to dabble in self sufficiency, or those wishing to start but not aware of where to begin. I would hold off reading were you serious and determined and aimed at totality, however.

LIBERATING DUALITY WITH WISDOM DISPLAY - KHENCHEN PALDEN SHERAB RINPOCHE & KHENPO TSEWANG DONGYAL RINPOCHE

LIBERATING DUALITY WITH WISDOM DISPLAY - KHENCHEN PALDEN SHERAB RINPOCHE & KHENPO TSEWANG DONGYAL RINPOCHE

RATING: A

The introduction offered insight into my own experiences of seeing beyond eyesight, hearing beyond ear-reach, etc. I was drawn to the study on Guru Nyima Ozer - perhaps from a practice in a former life? I found the text very informative and hope to re-read the practices to start work on some of them - as time allows.

I would recommend this book to those practicing within the Nyingma lineages and to those interested in learning of the varying forms of Guru Rinpoche.

PROTONIC SPEAKING - GREG 'LUCRALOVER' ETHERTON

RATING: B

A pocket-sized book written by a friend of a friend. I like the example of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! Page 65 explains what I have attempted to express to my son, concerning how the people you hang around with and think of influence you; how their ways and attitudes rub off on you.

A very interesting read. I would recommend this book to those trying to find a non-religious path towards life improvement, those trying to find the right attitude to cope and progress in today's crazy world, and those interested in the various methods of improving one's life.