Books for sale... (ideal for Christmas gifts)

A few of my blog readers may be aware that I have spent almost a decade writing books as well as reading them for several decades. As a reminder to those readers, and introduction to those unaware, there follows a list of the books written and published to date:
(NB A new book is awaiting a local history publisher's decision, while 2 more books are in the process of being edited/typed up ready for publication via Winterbear)

Brand new Books for sale:

* Autobiography/spiritual philosophy.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-rose-waybill/from-the-spring-of-fall/paperback/product-380152.html

* Sci-fi.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/madeliaette-winterbear/cemithualtin/paperback/product-583230.html

*Poetry.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-rose-waybill/your-world-my-words/paperback/product-561377.html

* Fiction.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/madeliaette-winterbear-and-jennifer-a-smith/men-making-music/paperback/product-830382.html

* Diary style/partial autobiography.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-r-waybill/the-fortieth-year-of-a-wollongong-woman/paperback/product-3375718.html

* Fiction.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/madeliaette-winterbear/village-shake/paperback/product-4780357.html

* Concerning the music scene in San Francisco during the 2000-2005 era.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-waybill/san-francisco-music-vibes-of-the-2000s/paperback/product-561383.html

* Poetry.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-waybill/third-eye-thru-open-mouth/paperback/product-677162.html

* Ornithology book concerning the Illawarra region of NSW, Australia.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-r-waybill/our-australian-feathered-friends/paperback/product-2332014.html

* Poetry.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-r-waybill/bowling-cherries-blowing-raspberries/paperback/product-3532746.html

* Support in making the most of/giving purpose to our lives.

http://www.lulu.com/shop/sand-dee-r-waybill/life-appreciation/paperback/product-5383659.html

These books are also available as Ebooks (cheaper) - just click thru to locate them from the links given.

LIGHT OF FEARLESS INDESTRUCTIBLE WISDOM - KHENPO TSEWANG DONGYAL

LIGHT OF FEARLESS INDESTRUCTIBLE WISDOM - KHENPO TSEWANG DONGYAL

RATNG: B

A complete biography, from former lives to left behind students, of H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche, an extremely important figure in the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Written predominantly by one of his students, the book contains verses from HH himself, along with details of his life and teachings given, and embellished with poetic verses written by the author.

I would recommend this book to Nyingma students, Tibetan Buddhists interested in learning more about HH Dudjom Rinpoche, and those who were his students.

LIGHT COMES THROUGH - DZIGAR KONGTRUL

LIGHT COMES THROUGH - DZIGAR KONGTRUL

RATING: B-

Personally, several pointers to assist my practice and a couple of new Tibetan words and their Buddhist meaning are contained within this book. In general, a book covering three main topics each in its own section - 5 negative emotions, relating to others, and emptiness. These tie together to explain the title.

I would recommend this book to students of DKR, along with people interested in knowing more about/practising any or all of the three sections.

HOW TO EXPAND LOVE - HHDL

HOW TO EXPAND LOVE - HHDL

RATING: B

A step by step guided teaching giving meditations the reader can practice with to improve themselves. The exercises are listed in order at the end of the book, allowing a recap, or for those who rushed through the reading to practice in sequence without re-reading the entire book, after having read it through. 'Even help a bug out of a puddle' - page 208 - resonates with me - as I naturally find myself checking to see if any flies are drowning before filling the bird bath.

I would recommend this book to readers aiming to improve thier outlook on life, personal attitude, or understanding - and to those who wish to seriously learn techniques to expand their love and resultant activity; also, to those who admire the teachings of HHDL.

THE POCKET DALAI LAMA - C&E MARY CRAIG

THE POCKET DALAI LAMA - C&E MARY CRAIG

RATING: B

A useful recap of many of HHDL's memorable quotes segmented into various categories. A pleasant and easy read to remind the reader of HHDL's wise advice. Personal favored quotes include those on page 52 concerning nature and pages 68/9 concerning universal responsibility.

I would recommend this book to those wanting a short and easy read on topics of importance to our shared world given as quotes by HHDL and those who want a brief update on HHDL's suggestions to improve both ourselves and the planet we share.

A BODHISATTVA'S WAY OF LIFE (prayer booklet for HHDL's AU teachings in 2011)

A BODHISATTVA'S WAY OF LIFE

 (prayer booklet for HHDL's AU teachings in 2011)

RATING: B-

This booklet accompanies the teachings from HHDL on Shantideva's classic text. It came along with the DVD set which I am about to play, while still on the subject - continuing from my last read. It contains prayers, some composed by HHDL.

I would recommend this booklet to those who have attended these teachings and to those who have the DVD set and would like to study rather than just listen to the teachings.

THE WAY OF AWAKENING - GESHE YESHE TOBDEN

THE WAY OF AWAKENING - GESHE YESHE TOBDEN

RATING:B

A detailed and helpful explanation style commentary on the famed Shantideva text, of which I have two copies that I studied with my late teacher, Sapan Rinpoche. I particularly admire the plentiful references towards HHDL. A fairly long book, but this is to its advantage.

I would recommend this book to those interested in studying the classic Shantideva text, who for whatever reason do not have a guide or teacher to share the expedition with them. I would also recommend this book to those familiar with the text who wish to review it, or seek an alternative viewpoint to clarify their current understanding.

ENCOURAGEMENTS TOWARDS AWAKENING - BHANTE BODHIDHAMMA

ENCOURAGEMENTS TOWARDS AWAKENING - BHANTE BODHIDHAMMA

RATING: B-

Seventy 1-2 page pieces of advice to assist meditation. Each piece could be read alone as a daily idea to focus on, or in a read-through of the entire book to build up on ideas, reinforcement, and suggestions to aid one's meditation practices.

I would recommend this book to Buddhist practitioners searching for snippets of guidance, fresh viewpoints, and/or a daily boost to their meditation practice.

MANUAL OF INSIGHT - LEDI SAYADAW

MANUAL OF INSIGHT - LEDI SAYADAW

RATING: B+

A well laid out book giving detailed explanation of insight meditation basics. If you require precise details and explained lists, this is a good guide. Although coming from Theravada/Pali texts, the book was written many decades ago by a learned man additionally aware of Mahayana practices for a Western audience. For once, I do not have to decipher the Westernization to understand the book.

I would recommend this book to all Buddhist practitioners seeking to follow a sensible course of insight meditation.

SATIPATTHANA VIPASSANA - MAHASI SAYADAW

SATIPATTHANA VIPASSANA - MAHASI SAYADAW

RATING: B

A descriptive account of mindfulness meditation. I sometimes practice Theravada meditations alongside my usual practices in order to refine and improve areas of mindfulness and insight. This is a helpful book in such respect.

I would recommend this book to Theravada practitioners along with those wishing to improve their mindfulness meditation.

FOREST MEDITATIONS - BHIKKHU KHANTIPALO

FOREST MEDITATIONS - BHIKKHU KHANTIPALO

RATING: B

This book covers the verses of Arahant Talaputa Thera along with a commentary given to explain them. One of the first book on Buddhism I read was the life story of Acariya Mun, which is mentioned within this book. Yet again, as explained in recent posts, to hear a new version of an already known Dharma point can often be helpful for both revision and continuation of practice.

Theravada monks use a different language, based on Pali translations, for explaining Buddhism which I find easier to understand than many of the Western commentaries that use modern Western terminology that I have some difficulty with. It is therefore helpful for me to hear the same points rendered in different ways so I can pick up any point that I might have missed due to Sanskrit/Tibetan translation into modern English/American terms. This book also taught me a new word in my own language - I had never heard of 'horripilation' before.

I would therefore recommend this book to Buddhist practitioners seeking clarification or elaboration from another viewpoint on Buddhist basics as well as Theravada Buddhists.

THREE CARDINAL DISCOURSES OF THE BUDDHA - NANAMOLI THERA

THREE CARDINAL DISCOURSES OF THE BUDDHA - NANAMOLI THERA

RATING: B

Another short book dealing with Theravada Buddhist scriptures. From time to time, I like to refresh my knowledge and practice of the roots of Buddhism and find such books as this one useful for this purpose. I never know what basic truths I might have missed before and like to have a concrete understanding of the core topics.

I would recommend this book to those wanting to learn the main root beliefs of Buddhism, simplify their practice to the basics, or as a refresher.

BUDDHIST SCRIPTURES - E J THOMAS

BUDDHIST SCRIPTURES - E J THOMAS

RATING: B

A short collection of Theravada scriptures following an extensive introduction. The book covers the birth and passing of the Buddha along with several major teachings.

I would recommend this book to those curious about Buddhism, practitioners seeking a basic overview, and those wishing to compliment their studies with a review of the Buddha's own wording.

A TASTE OF FREEDOM - AJAHN CHAH

A TASTE OF FREEDOM - AJAHN CHAH

RATING: B

A short collection of transcribed talks given by Ajahn Chah. Thai Forrest monks may be far removed in style from that of my own Tibetan Nyingma lineage, but offer teachings that can clarify various fuzzy points with simple explanations. A relaxing read that provided new viewpoints on much-studied subjects.

I would recommend this book to those starting to take an interest in Buddhist theory and practice, those interested in Thai Forrest teachings, and those interested in refining their own meditation practices.

SPACIOUSNESS - (LONGCHENPA) KEITH DOWMAN

SPACIOUSNESS - (LONGCHENPA) KEITH DOWMAN

RATING: B+

A complex read that stretched my comprehension. Whilst there is still much I will one day be able to learn from this text, at least I have made some progress already. Three specific points towards the latter half of the book stand out as particularly helpful to me - the second paragraph of Canto Eleven, the first paragraph on page 86, and the experience/phenomena explanation in Appendix 2.

I would recommend this book to Nyingma-Dzogchen students, those interested in reading Longchenpa's texts, and those who have taken a few steps in practice and seek clarification on misty matters.

VIVID AWARENESS - KHENCHEN THRANGU

VIVID AWARENESS - KHENCHEN THRANGU

RATING: A+

This text matches my level of understanding and backs up my findings so far. Matters are simply explained that I have already fully or partially discovered. What is written, I too have learned to be the truth. I can relate above averagely to this book, which both confirms my learning and gives new guidance for my next steps. Chapter six clears up a major quandary for me. The practices in chapter 17 are helpful. They remind me of when I was a child, staring at the bedroom light and watching colored blobs issue out...

I would recommend the book to the serious student/practitioner. I would also recommend it to those who practice Vajrayana and seek clarification or to deal with uncertain matters.

GESTURE OF AWARENESS - CHARLES GENOUD

 

GESTURE OF AWARENESS - CHARLES GENOUD

RATING: B-

This appears to be a book of verse, if glancing through without reading. It turned out to be a strange collection of words assembled more to twist the mind from normal understandings than to teach in a traditional way. I particularly admired the environmental quotation on page 75 & chapters 'Red Sunflower', 'Nagarjuna', and 'Hopi' were meaningful to my current level of comprehension.

I would recommend this book to those interested in philosophical expansion, opening up the mind to new ways of seeing things, and contemplative awareness as well as those seeking a 'different' sort of book to read.

EMOTIONAL AWARENESS - HHDL & PAUL EKMAN

EMOTIONAL AWARENESS - HHDL & PAUL EKMAN

RATING: B-

I related well to HHDL's side of the conversation, probably as I have read so many Buddhist books and have never been in touch with my own Western culture. I can answer the question posed regarding whether or not it is possible to change ones emotional profile - YES! (I did). I enjoyed the analogy on page 68-9 regarding kindergarten/doctorate. I found the mention of emotional resonance and meta attention relatable - in that these are two areas with which I have personal experience. I give the thumbs up to the Darwin quote on page 149. In the section referent to recognition of/avoidance of emotions, I tend to find the hardest part easy and easiest part hard - as usual.

I would recommend the book to those interested in Buddhist psychology, HHDL's views, or understanding emotions.

CHATTY CAT THE FIRST SIX MONTHS - SUZAN COLLINS

CHATTY CAT THE FIRST SIX MONTHS - SUZAN COLLINS

RATING: B-

Taking a break from my usual reading topics of Buddhism, travel and philosophy, I ventured into this book concerning a rescue cat and how it learns to fit into its new home. (I attended the online book launch and won a copy thanks to Chatty Cat selecting me!) The author seems to know her cat's mind as well as I knew those of my pigeon pals back home in Wollongong. The book ends with tips for looking after a cat from both the human and cats' eye view.

This book is dotted with pictures, photos and internet links. My favorite parts are in chapter 4 when the cat first learns about its new abode, chapter 11 as it explores the garden, the burglary in chapter 22 and the video link in the 6th chapter. It is hard to say whether the book should be classed as fiction or non-fiction - in that it is imaginary words coming from a true situation.

I would recommend this book to cat lovers, those interested in how mankind regards the inner mind of feline animals, and those interested in adding a rescue cat to their lives.

HER FATHER'S GARDEN - JAMES VOLLBRACHT

HER FATHER'S GARDEN - JAMES VOLLBRACHT

RATING: C-

Instead of the Tibetan adult book that I was expecting when I put in an order, it turned out to be a Chinese children's book - oh well... The story is similar to a moralistic fairy-tale and ends happily ever after.

I would recommend the book to... children.

HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA infinite compassion for an imperfect world - Watkins Masters of Wisdom

HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA infinite compassion for an imperfect world - Watkins Masters of Wisdom

RATING: B-

A compendium of quotational paragraphs from HHDL relating to various modern matters, sequenced into sections. I particularly related to his Nobel prize speech in chapter 18, where he spoke of turning Tibet into a land of ahimsa, a beautiful idea. Also of specific interest to me personally was the environmental poem on page 156.

I would recommend this book to those wishing to refresh themselves on some of HHDL's stances and attitudes, those interested in a modern Buddhist outlook, and those who want to read everything written by HHDL.

THE WISDOM OF THE BUDDHIST MASTERS - ROBERT SACHS

THE WISDOM OF THE BUDDHIST MASTERS - ROBERT SACHS

RATING: B-

After detailing the purpose of the book and listing the original questions used for the interviews, the author offers us each interview with a modern Buddhist master in printed form. I personally related best to Ven. Thubten Chodron whose understanding of the way media attempts to influence us is akin to my own. I myself have already chosen to not use TV, newspapers, or radio. The book offers practical and contemplative advice for those interested in either improving the shared world about us or at least surviving this current life.

I would recommend this book to those interested in current affairs from a Buddhist viewpoint, those wishing to make our planet a better place, and those seeking guidance in how to understand the world's current state and direction.

SHAMANS OF THE WORLD - NANCY CONNOR & BRADFORD KEENEY

SHAMANS OF THE WORLD - NANCY CONNOR & BRADFORD KEENEY

RATING: B

Dealing with a variety of alternative healers taken from various indiginous cultures, this book covers the better side of medicine to the Western 'pills n profits' too many of us automatically use (though not myself). It opens with a beautiful story of a NAI lady who found she was destined to become a healer in much the same way that I discovered I was destined to practice Tibetan Buddhism.

I connect best to the NAI accounts. I can relate to recognition of technology as destructive to Mother Nature rather than man progressing, for example. I found a book full of preferable alternative to those which my own culture is supposed to use. It is good to know that so many alternatives exist nd can only say that I have more faith in such as these than that of Western medicine.

I would recommend this book to those interested in learning of medical alternatives to the 'expected' modern approach.

WORLD RELIGIONS an illustrated guide - EDITOR SEAN MCLOUGHLIN

WORLD RELIGIONS an illustrated guide - EDITOR SEAN MCLOUGHLIN

RATING: C -

Briefly covering each of the the mainstream religions that have adorned our planet over known awareness of such, none of the religions are taken into any detail. The religions are grouped together by location rather than popularity or time. The book serves well as a basic guide but lacks enough depth for readers to learn sufficiently to fully understand each religion.

I would recommend the book as a guide to the location of various religions and as a time frame, but not for any serious student wanting to know the dull story of any particular religious group.

THE GUIDE TO INDIA - TONI HUBER/AMDO GENDUN CHOPEL

THE GUIDE TO INDIA - TONI HUBER/AMDO GENDUN CHOPEL

RATING: C

Although I found the book informative, there were so many notes telling the reader that this or that fact was not necessarily correct, that the English translation of this Tibetan classic became slightly tedious. The original text was written sometime ago, although the translation and this edition are more modern. Many of the places named refer to places now considered outside of India, such as Nepal and Pakistan, although at the time of original writing they were Indian territory.

I would recommend the book to those interested in a Tibetan perspective to traveling India for the purpose of viewing places of Buddhist pilgrimage and those interested in pre 21st century India and Tibet relations and travel.

A GUIDE TO SARNATH - B MAJUMDAR

A GUIDE TO SARNATH - B MAJUMDAR

RATING: C+

The first two chapters, dealing with Buddhism and the history of Sarnath are both informative and useful to me. There then enters a somewhat dry and descriptive chapter pertaining to the monuments, akin to a guide. This is followed by information concerning the museum, completing the book. The book was originally written in the 20th Century but remains a valid guide to Sarnath today.

I would recommend the book to those interested in knowing what is in Sarnath to be viewed or to those interested in the history of Sarnath, although personally I got more from the text concerning Buddhism than on Sarnath itself.

LANDS OF THE THUNDERBOLT SIKHIM CHUMBI & BHUTAN - LORD RANALDSHAY

LANDS OF THE THUNDERBOLT SIKHIM CHUMBI & BHUTAN - LORD RANALDSHAY

RATING: C

This book covers various aspects of Buddhism, albeit seen only through Theravada preferring eyes, along with intriguing botanically detailed travel notations. Written in the early 20th century, in can be read for its historical value as well as from its travel and botany aspects.

I would recommend the book to those interested in early 20th C history, botanical descriptions of Himalayan countries, and travel, as well as those interested in viewing Himalayan culture through Western eyes.

ESCAPE FROM THE LAND OF SNOWS - STEPHAN TALTY

ESCAPE FROM THE LAND OF SNOWS - STEPHAN TALTY

RATING: C+

A detailed and informative account of HHDL's youth and trip into exile. This book covers the entire story. A map is included, along with a list of key people that are involved in the saga. Some of the text appears to contradict alternative sources fact wise, however.

I would recommend this book to those interested in the 20th Century Tibetan troubles, those wanting to learn more concerning HHDL, and those interested in the present situation needing to learn more on the origin of current matters.

TRESPASSERS ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLD - PETER HOPKIRK

TRESPASSERS ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLD - PETER HOPKIRK

RATING:C-

Another book that although more interesting than the last I will not be likely to re-read. Skimming across multiple advances of various foreigners invading Tibet, it focused more on Lhasa than Tibet overall. It is written for a Western reader and I do not share many of the attitudes expected. However, it did seem to cover all the known curious explorers and invaders over the past couple of centuries.

I would recommend the book to those interested in Tibetan history, exploration and invasion, and historical Tibetan travel.

A MOUNTAIN IN TIBET - CHARLES ALLEN

A MOUNTAIN IN TIBET - CHARLES ALLEN

RATING: D -

I was not impressed with this book. I imagined it to contain far more geographical traveling detail and far less historical 'dates and names'. I have little inclination toward the history of British invasions. The book covers British and other European invasions into Tibet in the guise of exploration.

The book would appeal to those interested in a relation between European history and Tibet, and to those interested in exploration by Europeans.

MY YOUTH IN TIBET - TSEYANG SADUTSHANG

MY YOUTH IN TIBET - TSEYANG SADUTSHANG

RATING:B

A short but interesting account of the life of a Tibetan lady coupled with an informative narrative concerning Reting Rinpoche. At less than 75 pages in length, it is a quick read and contains several photographs.

I would recommend the book to those interested in Reting Rinpoche, Tibetan biographies, and Tibetan culture.

LEARNING TO WALK - SANGHARAKSHITA

LEARNING TO WALK - SANGHARAKSHITA

RATING: B-

This book is an easy-read semi-biography that precedes a separate main autobiography. It tells the tale of a 20th century man growing up in a Christian world and discovering both life and Buddhism. Many of the places mentioned in Devonshire and Sussex I myself have an acquaintance with, as do I the situation of growing up in England and a Christian family.

I would recommend the book to English/European people who lean towards Buddhism yet are surrounded by another faith, those interested in Western Buddhists, and those who enjoy biographies.

THE TIBETAN ART OF PARENTING - ANNE MAIDEN BROWN, EDIE FARWELL & DICKEY NYERONGSHA

THE TIBETAN ART OF PARENTING - ANNE MAIDEN BROWN, EDIE FARWELL & DICKEY NYERONGSHA

RATING: B

An interesting account that covers the entire growth of a baby from its preconception to youth, seen in relation to Tibetan culture. Once again, I find that I can relate to this culture better than my own. Many practices mentioned are worth considering whatever your culture, as this book gives plenty of possible ideas to prospective parents and those already with children.

I would recommend the book to prospective parents, those with young children, and those interested in the Tibetan culture.

BORN IN LHASA - NAMGYAL LHAMO TAKLHA

RATING:B

This is the latest read from my collection of biographies & autobiographies of Tibetans. In this case, it is the autobiography of HHDL's sister in law. I enjoy relaxing into a book detailing Tibetan lifestyle and customs, as I can relate to their culture better than my own birth culture. This account includes several photographs.

I would recommend reading this book to those interested in the Tibetan culture of the 20th century, entertained by autobiographies, and wishing to hear another viewpoint of the troubles caused to the Tibetan people by the Chinese occupation and destruction of their land.

INCARNATION - TULKU THONDUP

RATING: A

An extremely interesting and complete account of the Tibetan tulku tradition. Every aspect of the topic appears to be covered, from history through modern understanding of the usefulness, identification, variety, miracles, recognition, deaths, and there are even sections on how to become a tulku and questions that have been answered.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a complete coverage of the tulku topic, Tibetan tradition and culture, and Tulku Thondup's writings.

THE BLUE POPPY AND THE MUSTARD SEED - KATHLEEN WILLIS MORTON

RATING:B -

This heart~touching tale covers the death of a baby and how the Buddhist mother learned to cope and regain her life afterwards. It also covers a worldwide travel saga which includes Tibet & India. We are taken with the mother through her broken heartedness and into her new outlook on life ahead, alongside her husband.

I would recommend this book to those who are heartbroken by or scared of death, those who have lost a baby or child, and those who want to understand one Western Buddhist perspective in regards to death and dying.

A BLUE HAND - DEBORAH BAKER

RATING: D+

A rather dull read, I found. This book covered the preparation as much as the time spent in India of various famous Beat~tide personalities. Personally, I am more interested in their Indian exploration and understandings than the huge first chapter of US preparations. Mention of Tibetan Buddhism is present, but hidden within the main plots of who went where with whom. As an historical account it does more than as an informative investigation.

I would recommend the book to those interested in the Beat era and the early Western investigations of the Himalayan culture as well as fans of Ginsberg.

THE CAVE OF THE YELLOW DOG - BYAMBASUREN DAVAA & LISA REISCH

RATING: C+

This easy~read book, based on a Mongolian tale, is now a movie. It describes everyday life incidents of Mongolian nomads including their diet, housing, routine, family lifestyle, etc. There are plenty of photographs included.

I would recommend the book to those interested in the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle that is now fast disappearing, those who have seen the movie, and those interested in world cultures.

HOLDER OF THE WHITE LOTUS - ALEXANDER NORMAN

RATING: C+

A chunky book covering not only the lives of the 14 Dalai Lamas to date, but the surrounding history. While some of the facts given do not match those in other books, as a whole the historical background is helpful in showing the full picture. I much approve of the concluding comment, and am in agreement with it. Now that the Dalai Lama has brought Tibetan Buddhism to the whole world, there will likely be interest in his next incarnation arising all around our planet when such time comes for his next rebirth. There will likely be people all over our earth that seek the next Chenrezig incarnation, not only in Tibet.

I would recommend this book to those with an interest in Tibetan history, the institution of the Dalai Lama, and Tibetan Buddhism.

A HUNDRED THOUSAND WHITE STONES - KUNSANG DOLMA

RATING: B+

A hearty Tibetan tale covering the early years in Tibet, escape to India, and subsequent life in USA of a once~nun now~mother from Amdo. I can relate well to one theme, best mentioned on page 217, of not sharing the cultural interests of those dwelling around me. That same feeling of not sharing the values and lifestyle of those around me once led me to migrate to the other side of the planet to try to seek those who were similar to me. I still find that I relate better to Himalayan cultures than to my own.

I would recommend this book to those wishing to hear a Tibetan's story and to those wishing to contrast the various lifestyles ~ Tibetan, Indian, and American.

NINE LIVES - WILLIAM DALRYMPLE

RATING:C

This book contains nine stories from various Indian beings of differing religious and social standing. The very first story gave me someone to relate to, in their sharing of my attitude towards death among other matters. I too am opposed to Western medicine, though not for the same reasons, and I too wish to die naturally rather than prolong my ailing body by pill~popping when something arises that cannot be cured without.

I related well to this first tale, as I also shared a rejection of vehicular use, have lived several of my more than 40 years with one meal a day, and hold ahimsa as higher priority than convention. The stories continued, traversing such variables as Godly whores, blind singers and soldier monks.

I would recommend the book to those interested in seeing a different side of India from the conventionally seen city life.

SEVEN YEARS IN TIBET - HEINRICH HARRER

RATING: B+

Predominantly a good read, spoiled by my not being able to attune to the Western viewpoint from which it is written. For one example, the use of prayerwheels is referred to as 'childlike', whereas it is something I myself have faith in and consider to be meaningful. I have not seen the movie that was made from this book, but as it is not shot in Tibet itself, I have no inclination to move beyond this book, which gives insight into the Tibetan way of life ~ that I can relate to far easier than that of my own culture.

I would recommend the book to those interested in the Tibetan way of life shortly before it was ruined by Chinese invasion and those interested in seeing Tibetan culture through Western eyes.

CLASSICAL KOREAN POETRY - I&T by JAIHIUN KIM

RATING: C+

The majority of poems seem to refer to former officials who have escaped to the countryside and taken such delight in the natural life as to pop poems. They talk of seagull friends, fishing, farming, plum blossom and disappearing into a haze of wine~soaked contemplations. Unfortunately, the printers malfunctioned when printing my book as several pages are missing/duplicated in my copy.

My personal recommendations to those wishing to sample just a few poems rather than reading the entire book front to back as I did are as follows: 15, 1665, 1840, 733, 1386, 2370, 1223, 2213, 632, 740, 468, 457, 2231, 1972, 1190, 423, 840, 254, 292, 1122, 1952, 381, 1178, 2076, 1060, 766, 787, 524, 2301, 2070, 1958 and 1049.

I would recommend this book to those interested in reading poetry, Korean studies, and those wanting a change from the more familiar Euro~American style poetry.

THE FUTURE IS NOW - KARMAPA

RATING: B+

A thick and chunky book filled with short constructive quotes composed by HH the Karmapa. Although primarily aimed at the worldwide youth of today, the quotations cover a wide range of living situations and choices and can guide readers of all ages.

I would recommend this collection to those interested in an easy yet helpful read, those wishing to read words of wisdom from Karmapa, and those interested in how we can make ease with today's many life struggles.

THE SPECIAL YEARS - VAL DOONICAN

RATING:B

Having been a fan of Val Doonican since my schooldays, discovering this book among the many in my inheritance led me to read it, unlike most of the books which I have now gained. I found it interesting and informative, as I did not know anything of Val's private life or youth, merely of his TV shows, vinyls, and a live show that I once attended. My parents appear to have picked the book up for 50p at some point, probably from a jumble sale.

I would recommend this book to Val Doonican fans, people interested in European music from the 1950~2000 era, and also fans of autobiographies, TV, Irish music, and entertainers.

OLD MAN BASKING IN THE SUN - KEITH DOWMAN

RATING: A

This book took me a long time to read, primarily as it was one where much contemplation is required in addition to concentration. Covering Longchenpa's famed text 'Treasury of Natural Perfection', the book guides us through understanding via various commentaries. I found the first and fourth parts more comprehensible than the second and third, with the fifth part the simplest to comprehend. I shall have to read the book again at some point, as I am far from total understanding, however. It was originally recommended to me by my former teacher.

I would recommend the book to those interesting in studying/practicing Dzogchen, and reading Longchenpa and Nyingma texts.

TIBETAN RELAXATION - TARTHANG TULKU

RATING: B+

An interesting account of Tibetan Kum Nye style yoga. The book covers the meditative, massage, and movement sectors of Kum Nye. There are some interesting options in the physical section that I will be working with, although I have one problem preventing me from practicing this yoga in depth ~ I find it most difficult and uncomfortable to breathe through both my nose and mouth at the same time due to sinus problems.

The slow movements and much sitting add more to the relaxation sector than many forms of Yoga. One piece of advice I found extremely helpful was of focusing on the tense area and then going further into a pose. This advice has worked for all my Yoga practice.

I would recommend this book to those seeking a total form of relaxation, a beginners guide to Kum Nye yoga practice, or interested in picking up a few ideas to add to a current practice of relaxation, yoga, or Buddhism.

TRAINING THE WISDOM BODY - ROSA TAYLOR GOLDFIELD

RATING: C

I found the introduction illuminating on attitude and Chapter 1 also brought new light to my understanding. I spotted my favorite prayer in Chapter 3 and learned that it originated from words by Milarepa. Unlike many Yoga practice books, this one deals predominantly with standing asanas and the Buddhist outlook. I found several new poses to consider for my personal practice.

I would recommend this book to Yoga students interested in discovering a connection to Buddhism especially if they practice both, and to those interested in a different attitude to Yoga and/or new postures to incorporate into their personal routine.

TIBETAN YOGAS OF BODY, SPEECH, AND MIND - TENZIN WANGYAL RINPOCHE

RATING: B+

A 2011 publication with exploration, explanation, exercises, and guidance on further practices possible under a qualified teacher. I particularly related to the investigation of the '4 immeasurables' prayer and found the Bon Buddhist mandala concerning it fascinating. The chapter on prana was also informative and personally useful.

I would recommend this book to those interested in Bon Buddhism, Dzogchen, and understanding the possibilities and performance of such; also to those wishing to investigate the natural healing properties within our own hands and/or a liking for the words of TWR.

MIXING MINDS – PILAR JENNINGS

RATING: C-

A book that deals with integration/comparison of Buddhist practice and psychoanalysis centered on the relationships involved and methods used within each practice. While the author assumes a need for the presence of both within the troubled modern western life, I personally would put the need for psychoanalysis as an optional alternative for those stuck in the rut of convention. I feel that reflective contemplation and meditative experience leading to a stronger understanding and practice in conjunction with the 'teacher~student' instruction of Buddhism suffices when one is ready to question the norm rather than remain caught in its expectations.

I would recommend this book to those interested in comparing Buddhist practice and theory with psychoanalysis, those with a deep interest in either side, and those wishing to investigate the relationship aspect involved in both.