General Practice Books

This is an interesting and somewhat unique book because the emphasis isn't theological or philosophical at all, but rather on spiritual practices one can apply in daily life.

As such, the author doesn't burden himself (or the reader) with trying to rigorously justify the recommended practices, nor does he attempt to build a theoretical framework. Instead, he simply presents the practices and suggests that readers give them a try. I agree with this approach, because it seems that sometimes, especially in spiritual matters, we have to first take action and experience the consequences of that action in order to develop our understanding, rather than the more typical (and skeptically cautious) western approach of first developing understanding on rational grounds, then acting on that understanding.

Although the book doesn't include rigorous argumentation, the author does link the practices to a variety of spiritual traditions, including many quotes from sages and spiritual texts. I presume this is mainly to show the universality of the practices, and also to increase the chance that each reader will find things they can resonate with. Here and there, the author also mentions cases in which modern psychology and neuroscience provide scientific evidence supporting the practices, but this is a minor component of the book.

The book is divided into short chapters, and I think that reading a chapter a day will work well for most readers. I've read the book once, and I think it's valuable enough that I'll periodically reread it in the future.

Overall, I highly recommend the book to anyone motivated to grow spiritually, and who is open-minded enough to not be troubled by seeing references to many different spiritual traditions. Also be sure to check out 50 Spiritual Classics: Timeless Wisdom from 50 Great Books on Inner Discovery, Enlightenment and Purpose, which I think nicely complements this book.

As a final note, please remember that the key is to implement the practices in your daily life, not just read about them and understand them intellectually.

I've been a fan of Roger Walsh for a long time and was extremely honored that he endorsed my latest book, Beyond the Secret. In many ways this book inspired my own. Though the sub-title says this book is about seven practices, there is much more here than that. the book is filled with practical advice and exercises on how to reduce craving to find your soul's desire (similar to the theme of my book to move from consumption to contribution), to cultivate emotional wisdom (which inspired the chapter in my book on tapping into your feelings), living ethically by feeing good by doing good (are you listening followers of the popular book The Secret that only emphasizes the feel good part), calming your mind, developing wisdom, and learning to embrace the joy of service (service being a spiritual "law" that I emphasize in my own book is far more important than any law of attraction technique). In short, I am indebted to Roger Walsh and especially this book for having done so much to open my own heart and inspire my life. And, you will do very well to have this book in your library as it will truly help you make a difference in your life. - Dr. Lisa Love, Beyond the Secret

If you are on a quest of spirituality, this book is a must for your libarary of references.

A wonderful book by a wise and articulate author; I recommend it to everyone.

This is a great "spirituality for beginners" book. It is easy to read and full of great exercises, which can practically be done anywhere (just make sure its someplace you are least likely to be distracted and disturbed). This book will help you develop spiritually and mentally by helping to invigorate your sense of compassion and love for all of nature's beings.

After graduating from film school, I had no idea how to start my career as a writer in the film industry. "The Writer Got Screwed" not only showed my how to start my career, but showed me the different kind of careers which exist for Writers in the Entertainment Industry. Most books don't explain what WRITERS working in the entertainment industry need to know: THIS BOOK DOES. If you want to work in the legal department of a studio, take classes in copyright and contracts. If you want to work as a writer in the entertainment industry, THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU.

Very few books explain how to start your career, the different forms of representation (agents, managers, and attorneys), how to protect your work (copyright registration vs. registering with the WGA), how to protect yourself (contracts-what do they mean?) and give lists of available resources (scholarships, WGA approved agencies, production companies, legal resouces/attorneys) for writers working within the entertainment industry--"The Writer Got Screwed" delivers on all of these areas. Whether you are working in film, television, feature animation, soap operas, or interactive, "The Writer Got Screwed" provides interviews with writers who work in these areas and valuable, RARELY FOUND, information regarding how these started their careers. This book is a terrific, must-have book for anyone who wants to write for the entertainment industry, and now is joined by a companion website at [...].

This book is one of those needles in a hay stack. It's not out there like all the other books for writers. But if you find it... you have found gold. It is written so that it is easy to understand and has tons of great information in it. A must have.

There are a lot of books out there on writing for the entertainment industry, but this was the one book that got me started. A lot of writers tend to pass around gossip and poor information, but this book set me straight from the beginning, and is now joined by Wharton's website/blog: brookewharton.com(rated in top 10 for film blogs). This is the one book that anyone writing for film or television should START WITH. I'm mystified by a previous reviewer who said that Wharton doesn't talk about the WGA (there's a whole chapter on the guild), and also that she doesn't discuss acquisitions vs. development (it's called spec sales vs. assignments in the 1st 10 pages of the chapter on writing for film). Clearly this person couldn't have read the book. If you need real answers, buy the book.

Given all the 5 star ratings, I expected better. Not that this isn't a good book, but it depends on the reader's sophistication. If you don't know anything about some of the basic legal and business aspects of the publishing biz, this book is a good start. On the other hand, if you're a detail oriented person who really wants to dig in deep into this subject, you may find the content a bit light.

This is an excellent book. It really shows you how being a Christian makes sense.

Mr. Colson gives an excellent argument on his experience with the Watergate scandal. He illustrates how if Jesus Christ were just a scandal, then Christianity would have caved-in with the apostles and the first believers long ago.

Neat book.

It is a must for christian reader. Very moving and crystal clear message of what constitute Christian message.

Inspirational writer, Chuck Colson, delivers a heartfelt and moving book about loving God. He refers to R.C. Sprouls "Holiness of God" dvd series, which is a class I'm taking at my church right now. I couldn't put the book down & read it in two days.

This is a wonderful book whether you are Christian or not. It really depicts what Loving God really is. This book has helped me make my decision for Christ. There are many stories inside that really depicts the foundations for loving God. Chuck Colson has incorporated many wonderful testimonies that truly depicts how wonderful this God is.

I appreciate Colson's heart and where he has been in his life. This book is chock-full of stories of his life and ways we can learn to love God. There were a few chapters that seemed to bog down, but overall it's a good read and worth the time.

I wanted to read this book for a number of years. For whatever reason, I was unable to purchase it. I read parts of it on line. It is meditation in words. There are few scriptures that have effected me so deeply.

This is an outstanding piece of academic work. The translator has done an excellent job helping the reader through the tremendous repetition of the Pali canon and has provided valuable indices, tables, pronunciation guides and introduction. It probably is not a work for beginners, but once you have some foundation and understanding of the Pali canon, this volume is one of three you must have.

the realistic theravadan buddhism . this is a very big book and you cannot finish it in a month ...-to enjoy this book you must intuitivly understand the spirit of buddhism .mahayana buddhism has supermen complex
they run before learning to walk .before you begin trying save the world save yourself .

I have spent this past summer studying at the monastery where Bhikkhu Bodhi resides. In my daily contact with him, listening to his lectures, and having one-on-one discussions about Buddhism, I must say that he is one of the most influential and authoritative figures on the Dharma.

This translation is top notch and very readable. I do suggest that one go on the web to find a reading guide to the suttas as they were arranged for ease of memorization by the monks and nuns, not in the logical order of the content.

This Nikaya (division of the Pali Canon) is coming straight from the source of the Dharma: the Buddha himself. If one has mastered the basics of Buddhism doctrine, then this book may be a suitable next step. Beginners may want to seek out other sources to give them a foundation first.

With Metta

-Here's another five-star vote for an excellent translation showing care and faithfulness. The Introduction is itself a wonderful introduction to Buddhist thought and concepts, and the footnotes and index are commendable. The author often advises the reader when some controversy exists in translation and how this was resolved. Reading such a fine translation can add tremendous depth to your practice, help refine your compassion and wisdom, and give you an irreplaceable understanding of Buddhism.
-Although many good modern authors have published books with their own interpretations of Buddhist teachings, nothing can speak to you like the originals (this is also a good way to think for yourself).
-The individual suttas are just about right for reading one per day (even one sutta per week would be a good goal). You can easily finish the book in less than a year, and have enough time left over to read the Introduction as well.
-This is an excellent work of scholarship and IMHO would be a useful addition to the library of anyone interested in Buddhism.

This book was almost impossible to put down, with such compelling content that I actually forgot I was having lunch in a restaurant while reading it! This book takes little time to read but should provoke considerable reflection in the reader. We ALL need this reminder of the impact of our words and that we CAN CONTROL our reactions to events and to others and that we MUST consider the consequences of our word choices on others.

The best book around on this subject. Intelligently written without being scholarly and academic. Get copies for yourself and all of your friends. The Bible and Jewish tradition have much to say about speech and that muscle in our mouths that causes so much trouble. Applying the wisdom in this book can change one's life. Be quick to listen, slow to speak. Heed the words of Proverbs and James 3:5-6. Speak like you want others to speak to you. Speak words that build up--not those that tear down.

Wonderful, thought provoking, life changing book. Really caused me to examine my speech habits and to consider the great power of my spoken words. This would be a great book for a club or even a study group. Jew or Gentile could gain much from reading and applying this book.

This book's awesome! Powerful messages that change the way one looks at the words. Loved it. Received as described!

I have owned this book for many years, both my son and daughter have a copy. This is an absolute must read not just for those of the us who are Jewish; but for anyone who struggles with the truth or is incapable of telling it. I have given this particular book many, many times. Only recently I thought of a business arrangement involving a particular couple who would benefit from this book. I have ordered this book for them and hope this reading sets them free.

Very useful guide, almost all things you could think of are covered (a few are not though, i.e., I found one particular eye-related problem that although is mentioned somewhere in the book, is neither explained nor dealt with anywhere). As it is obvious given the time passed between the last two editions, the panel of doctors differs from the prior one, and some topics are treated differently as well, not necessarily due to the passage of time or technological advances, so I kept the former edition. I suggest you do the same if you have the older version.

This was a great value. I was going to purchase this at a well-known book store for $29.99, however decided to hold off and check on-line. I was extremely surprised at the price I was able to purchase it for. Excellent Value.

This gives the precise information we were looking forward to having at our finger tips. Good to have this type of informational book!

My daughter pointed out that the previous edition of this book we were using was from 1994, so I agreed an upgrade was called for. I was thrilled to find it was still in print and in a much newer version, while still retaining features I liked-such as the diagnosis guide and the chapters focusing on various body systems. This book is a great family resource, and easier to cull for information than the internet.

This book is the exact kind of medical guide which I like to refer too. It is user friendly. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants quick facts about illnesses'.

This book is great for beginners being introduced to philosophy and consciousness ideas, as well as seasoned readers of the genre. There is quite a bit of history of Panpsychism (and other world views) given, which the author says could be skipped if you are already familiar with the subject.

The author's writing style is easy to read, and he gives samples of upcoming ideas that keep you motivated to keep on reading. I got the sense that Mr. de Quincey is a talented teacher - I felt like he was giving me a personal lecture (in a good way!) as I was reading.

Although the book is definitely focused and has a point that he is trying to convey, I got the impression that Mr. de Quincey didn't have an agenda that he was trying to push on the reader. While reading the book, I got the impression that the author was taking the reader through the research and thought processes that lead him to his conclusion. It seemed like he came up with this conclusion naturally and rationally, rather than having a the conclusion in mind before starting his own research and gearing his studies towards his opinion.

Because of this, I think this book will appeal to open-minded materialists as well, since Mr. de Quincey presents himself in a very non-New Age manner. He keeps any farther reaching speculation (afterlife ideas, notion of a soul, etc.) to a minimum, which I thought was a refreshing change from the norm in books that propose a more Panpsychic view of the world.

This is the first part of a trilogy, so if you like this one be sure to read the rest.

Christian de Quincey's book "Radical Nature" fell into my hands at just about the right time to heighten that curious sense of synchronicity when things seem to have an underlying harmony and purpose, and I thoroughly enjoyed his body of thought.

Perhaps this book arrives at the right time for many people who want to liberate themselves from the clutches of the old materialistic paradigm. It will help them in this endeavor, because Dr. de Quincey respects and appreciates the achievements of all the great thinkers who have come before whether they would have agreed with him or not.

As the great P. Feyerabend has pointed out, philosophers of science often tend to overlook that science itself is a story and not a problem of logic. Dr. de Quincey does not make this mistake. He takes his ideas further and talks of the unfolding story of the cosmos, how it is intelligible to us precisely because we are inseparably connected to it, part and parcel of its essence and its being. We can make sense of it all, because it is sensible; everything, the whole cosmos including its very last spec of matter, is "intrinsically sentient" he declares. Matter and psyche coexist as an inseparable whole.

Dr. de Quincey has labored hard to pull together all the different strands of human knowledge from the fields of science, philosophy and psychology, and he presents them in his beautifully clear understanding. His well argued and carefully outlined thoughts on the nature of matter and consciousness especially the mind/body split are designed to put Humpty Dumpty back together again when nobody thought this could be done. I actually feel liberated and, in some sense vindicated after finishing this book, since it strengthens and validates in strong ways feelings and thoughts I had for quite some time. I learned a lot reading this work, and the best thing is, it actually made me a happier person.

In this book, de Quincey's knowledge, experience, passion and scholarship catapults our understanding of consciousness into a view which dissolves boundries between matter and mind. His clarity and eloquence of expression helps to bridge the gap between pure feeling and the written word.

My favorite quote from the book: "Stories Matter, Matter Stories" (also a chapter heading) says a lot about this book which is chuck-full of wisdom. His ideas are well supported and come across with the simplicity of "common sense."

When I read this book, I rushed over to Amazon and bought Christian de Quincey's other book Radical Knowing.

I totally agree with his witty critique of "physics envy" . . . Consciousness is not a sub-atomic virtual energy field although, as he correctly points out, it is the experiencer of energy, of vibrations, of fields, and waves. His slogan "Consciousness knows. Energy flows" says it all.

His thought and writing are so fine and so beautifully intelligent, and I responded with feeling. I particularly want to compliment de Quincey on his amazing explanation of the great philosopher Whitehead. I have heard that he is the hardest philosopher to understand. But Radical Nature does a great job untangling difficult ideas. After reading this, I find Whitehead the easiest philosopher to understand now--particularly the mind-body connection. People should come to this book with a feeling sense . . . reading while listening to our bodies. Dr. de Quincey's teaching has more than a touch of real alchemy. The more I read his books, the more I know I am calibrating a great mind who can communicate in an exciting and profound way. I kept having to put the book down because it inspired cascades of ideas and contexts that made complexity unravel in a life affirming, powerful way. This book, and Radical Knowing perhaps even more, is positively juicy, a term not usually used for top scholarship in consciousness exploration. Dr. de Quincey is particularly adept bringing a grounded, welcoming order to complex, abstract philosophical language. In the end, I landed right where he wanted me to...wanting and able to read and know more. Both books added so much value and richness to my life and merit every bit of attention.

This book was a valuable addition to my ongoing search to make sense out of my world. I owned it for some time before I read it. Then I bought Radical Knowing and liked it even better. (I reviewed it in July)

De Quincey puts into words deep feelings I have had all my life about my connection to nature. His research seems to be impeccable. I can only read so much and it really helps to read an author who does so much of it for me.

I am not a scientist or a philosopher so some of the arguments between different schools of opinions don't mean a lot to me. What I enjoy are new ideas put in language that is readable and enjoyable. This book fulfilled those requirements.

have a problem with using words like "brilliant", "masterful" and "intelligent." But willing apply all words to this brilliant book, masterfully research and intelligently told.

The author gives a very full and complete treatise on Brown versus the Board of Education, but of greater interest, he writes of all the history that lead up to the ruling.

An exceptional book chronicling an extremely important issue in our country's history.

This is certainly the best book ever written -- the best book that ever will be written -- about race, law and American society. It is a remarkably insightful history and one of the most stunning existing examples of narrative journalism. It is a masterpiece.

I'm a fan of nonfiction works and this easily moved to my top 5 favorite books. When I was growing up there were no courses on the contributions blacks made to America. There was no black history month. And I was cheated. I'm a 50+ white woman who lived through desegregation and had no clue that it was a struggle. I honestly don't remember a time when my elementary classes were all white but they must have been. I do remember clearly when my elementary class stopped being all white. That was when Richard Harris became my Batman buddy. On the aftenoons following the show we would go to the neighborhood soda shop and have a coke and discuss all the action of the previous evening's show and check for new Batman bubble gum cards with the intensity that only 5th graders can bring to such an important endeavor. It felt normal to chat Batman with Richard; and I'm so sorry for all the children that had such a dumb practice as segregation rob them of those moments.

This book read like a thiriller for me. Couldn't put it down. Underlined and highlighted parts. Read other sections out loud to my husband and to some friends at work. This is American history. Everyone should have the opportunity to learn about the value of education, the value of varied experiences and the perseverance to acquire the rights that should never have been denied to the black people. It's made me hungry to know more and I'll be keeping my eye out for other works by Kluger. Excellent author.

I just finished this book, A Simple Justice, and it is fantastic. It's the story of Brown vs. The Board of Education of Topeka, which is the landmark Supreme Court case that desegregated compulsory public schools in America. But it's so much more than that. After reading this book, I felt almost ashamed of my previous ignorance to the struggles and condition of black america at the hands of almost everyone else in the country. It is comprehensive in its scope and perspicacious in its analysis, sparing no feelings on either (or rather, any) side. I believe myself to be, for the most part, a judicious man when it comes to philosophical or sociological observations, but Kluger was able to open my eyes to angles I had previously missed on issues I thought I had resolved long ago. So if you're not too scared of big books, this one's worth the time.

Long a mainstay of every 1L's pre-law school summer reading list, SIMPLE JUSTICE is more than a retelling of the tortured history of the landmark cases now known collectively as Brown v. Board of Ed. It is more than a retelling of the agonizing struggles of both gifted and ordinary people---black and white and every other---to reverse the four centuries of racial disparagement that make up the ugliest of all underpinnings of the American Experiment. What SIMPLE JUSTICE is, is an exhaustive sociological history of race relations in the United States to the 1950s.

It is a book every American should read. The endemic quality of racism in the American psyche is so overwhelming that it is easy to lose the human element. SIMPLE JUSTICE restores that element with sensitive, intelligent writing, exhaustive and documented research, and a tone which is pitch perfect, strident when need be, reasoned and thoughtful throughout. Ultimately optimistic, SIMPLE JUSTICE will renew your belief in the American system even while tempering it.

In it's retelling of nightmarish incident after nightmarish incident (the explosive and hideous lynchings are often easier to understand than the equally hideous and more subtle segregation and caricaturing that endured for, it seems, ever), SIMPLE JUSTICE shows us an America riven by its view of itself as a noble nation being eaten by the canker in its soul.

Although many Americans now consider race discrimination passe, it is not so hard to see the continuation of a pattern of violence toward blacks and the denigration of the black experience, even today. And yet, there is more, for not only are Black Americans denigrated, but White Americans as well, both suffering because this nation is only a fraction of what it might othewise be.

SIMPLE JUSTICE is a crucial Civics lesson. Read it to learn. Read it to know. Read it. Read it again.

The book is concise, covers a wide range of topics and is entertaining while describing a complicated religion. An enjoyable read, very informative and filled with fascinating facts, thoughts, history and possible future of Judaism. I would recommend this for anyone wanting to start learning about Judaism and the fascinating culture, traditions and religions.

This book is in no form an "Idiot's" guide. Rabbi Benjamin Blech does an absolute brilliant job articulating some of the most difficult concepts in Jewish thought and Judaism today. Based on his book "Understaing Judaism" published by Jason Aronson, Blech touches on almost every aspect of Jewish life and for the right amount of time. Not too little, yet not too boring.

After reading this book I realized that after years of study, I am still an "idiot".

They need to remove the "Complete Idiot's Guide" from the title. I feel that this cheapens or insults the wonderful message and body of work inside this marvelous book. G-d's message and word should not be down played as this title implies.

With that said the Rabbi's message is very articulate and insightful. He is able to blend ancient teachings with modern analogies wonderfully. I highly recommend this book!!

This book provides an accurate basic account of the Jewish faith for all who are interested. It also adds amusing references to pop culture and real-life sitations.

This is a great book for a non Jew to get an overall appreciation for the beliefs, practices and customs of the Jewish religion. I am a Christian who wanted to get a better understanding and appreciation for Judaism. In Jan. 2007 I spent two weeks in the Holy Land and when I came back I wanted to get a fuller appreciation for Judaism. This book gave me that.

As a 4th grade teacher, I am always looking for books to incorporate into my Earth Day unit. This is my new favorite.

Gaia Girls Enter the Earth tells the story of Elizabeth, a 4th grade girl who lives on a family farm that is in danger of being taken over by a factory farm operation to raise and slaughter 7,000 pigs a day. Elizabeth learns of powers she has to help save her own and surrounding farms, while readers learn about the environmental impact of factory farms. The message is powerful and not preachy, and is embedded in a story that will make you long to start growing your own garden and appreciate the natural world around you. The story is wonderfully vivid and suspenseful.

As a 30 year old I was hooked by this book geared towards a younger crowd. I love reading good YA and this is up there on my list. It wasn't preachy and had some great characters who were well rounded. I am totally hooked and can't wait to read the rest of the series. :)

Thank you thank you thank you to the author, illustrator and publishers of this book!!! My daughter is 10 years old and absolutely loves it. She loves to read but can be very picky about books! We happened to be at the Boston Museum of Science when the author was there and my daughter had to have a signed copy after talking to Lee Welles for a few minutes. We are very eco-concerned and I am glad to see a book that really relates to this generations problems and the fact that they really do need to start getting involved and getting there friends involved in fixing the situation NOW!!! SO again THANK YOU!!! I truly believe that this book may help a lot of young adults step up and make a difference!

My daughter (age 11) just loved the book. She felt it was very suspenseful and can't wait til she reads the next one. In this book, Harmony Farms creates a town disagreement in Avon by changing everyone's opinions on farming. Elizabeth's special powers help her when she needs them the most. Great book and keep up the good work, Lee Welles!

Elizabeth Angier is a fourth-grader who lives on a farm. She helps her parents weed the large vegetable garden, dye skeins of wool from their sheep, arrange wildflowers into bouquets to be sold at the farmers' market, and water the saplings that landscapers buy. Will, the high school boy from the dairy farm over the hill, comes over to help her dad on occasion. Elizabeth loves everything about growing up on the farm that has been in her father's family for many generations. But all this threatens to change: a company that runs "CAFO" (Concentrated Feeding Animal Organizations) pig farms arrives to woo struggling farmers into selling their farms and taking jobs with the large corporation. As Elizabeth's parents desperately research the effects of existing CAFO's on a community's air, water, commerce, and quality of life, Elizabeth herself discovers her own connection to the earth and the powers that gives her. Gaia, the spirit of the Earth, appears to her as an otter, and begins to teach her.

That's just a brief synopsis of Gaia Girls: Enter the Earth, recent winner of the 2006 National Outdoor Book Award, children's division. Although this is a fantastical novel that author Lee Welles has written for children ("ages 9 and up"), many parts of the story ring true for communities like ours. Gaia Girls: Enter the Earth takes place on a farm in upstate New York, near the Finger Lakes. Much of it reads like home, the beauty as well as the struggles.

Although I consider myself sympathetic to environmental activists, I am leary of being lumped in with folks who wear hemp and eat vegetarian because it's trendy. In sitting down to read Gaia Girls, I was a little afraid that the story would be heavy-handed on earth goddesses but skim over the true difficulties of living environmentally-aware. I am pleased to report I couldn't have been more wrong. "Three Oaks Farm" is an organic farm, but Welles makes it clear that this makes the Angier family and their products unusual for their community. They need to be very creative to be successful: they advertise their organic produce to upscale restaurants, who pre-order from the farm. Another way they make money is by selling many different products: wool, vegetables, flowers, young trees, honey. Though Elizabeth and her parents feel they live a happy life in a corner of paradise, Welles doesn't flinch from showing how fragile that existence is, and how much work it takes to maintain it.

Welles' writing is strong. At the beginning, I was reminded of Charlotte's Web. As I continued to read Gaia Girls, I realized I was in the middle of a wonderful new literary phenomenon. I see this book, and the series to follow, touching many as it touched me. Enter the Earth reminded me of environmental issues and earth science facts that I already know about, but made me feel more attached to them. Without being preachy, Gaia Girls helps the reader see the science behind farming methods that are good for the earth, and how it is healthy for the people who live there and those of us who eat the food grown there. With Elizabeth, we can connect to the farm, as she and the farm connect to the earth. I raced through the book, loved the story, and can't wait for more.

Author of "Hobo Finds A Home" and editor of "A Predatory Heart"