THE TIBETAN BOOK OF THE DEAD - FRANCESCA FREMANTLE & CHOGYAM TRUNGPA

RATING - B+

I expected this to be an easy read, considering I have read 2-3 different versions of the same text already. However, it was the best translation so far and I found an awful lot of material to contemplate in the before and after sections in addition to the main text.

On page 59, it says that if one recognizes the luminosity due to previous meditations etc - one doesn't need to have the text read upon passing. What it does not explain is how to direct yourself to a specific rebirth from that position...

I have previously read at least one library version and the Evans-Wentz original translation, but this is the only version so far that has offered hints for practice whilst living rather than solely guidance when departed. (Or maybe this is the first time that I have picked them up).

THE ART OF FORGIVENESS, LOVINGKINDNESS, AND PEACE - JACK KORNFIELD

RATING - C

A pleasant easy-read between more complex study & practice books. Due to not having much sleep/rest, I am taking it easy (for a few books?) and reading some relaxing - yet still Buddhist/non-fiction/travel - books.

The book contains a 2-part layout, with the first chunk of each of the three chapters loaded with quotes - both Buddhist and otherwise, and the second chunk of each chapter devoted to meditation.

Whilst I would not recommend the book for serious students seeking in-depth text analysis or practice instruction, this book would be ideal to those seeking a simple yet effective Buddhist meditation practice, beginners, and those not concerned with specific lineage practices.

EYE OF THE STORM - KEITH DOWMAN

RATING - B

Yet another Dzogchen book! I was very sleepy while reading most of the book, and therefore very slow to complete reading it through. I was trying to stay in a mode of understanding and contemplating, rather than letting words go in my eye and disappear into thin headedness - but did not have much success.

I intend to re-read the entire book once I am getting enough rest & sleep to feel alert while reading, as the first short piece was firmly understood on 2-3 reads, but I have yet to properly figure out the other 4 pieces.

I wonder if it is significant that the two pieces with birds in the title were those that stood out the most?

I would recommend this book to Dzogchen practitioners interested in reading through texts with commentaries as ideas and pointers towards furthering their practice.