Nothing Special : Living Zen

Rating:
Summary: "Nothing Special" is Phenomenal
Review: I began looking at this book with a critical and suspicious eye, but I was vastly unhappy and needed some guidance. I was interested in Zen, but most things I'd read that were American Zen seemed kind of loopy and new-agey. As I continued reading, I was completely engrossed by Ms. Beck's ability to express the compassion and tolerance inherent in her school of Zen Buddhism. Her teachings are the no-nonsense wisdom I have been looking for; they are all about my everyday life and totally relevant. Without a doubt, this book has allowed me to change my life and start to be happy. I recommend this book ZEALOUSLY, which I never do for any other book...

Rating:
Summary: Sublime Transformation
Review: I have read many, many books on zen and buddhism before I came across this one. When you are tired of reading book after book after book and are ready to start sitting, this book will give you very practical guidance on what to expect in every stage of this sublime endeavor and tranforming practice of zen meditation. And you will have fun along the way!

Rating:
Summary: Sublime Transformation
Review: I have read many, many books on zen and buddhism before I came across this one. When you are tired of reading book after book after book and are ready to start sitting, this book will give you very practical guidance on what to expect in every stage of this sublime endeavor and tranforming practice of zen meditation. And you will have fun along the way!

Rating:
Summary: It gave me my first religious experience
Review: Incredible book, incredible woman and an incredible insight. To be absolutely honest, I was incredibly impressed that a woman would or could have a coherent philosophy let alone such an impressive one. If you just read one book about Zen, this has to be the one.

Rating:
Summary: The most important addition to my search for truth.
Review: Iread this book amongst a flurry of readings pouring over all I could find to give me direction and uncloud the densest of Zen writings. Joko Beck's books are like opening the Farmer's Almanac or biting into a Toll House cookie. Just delightful common sense stuff. The impact her books has had in my life has been similar to finding a compass when lost in a deep dark forest. I simply use them to light my way daily. All I have left to say is I thank you most humbly Ms. Joko Beck.

Rating:
Summary: Great Bk on American Zen
Review: Joko Beck really has created a unique brand of American Zen, which is one of the reasons I liked this one so much - not a lot of Japanese mumbo jumbo. Most the Zen Books out there right now are not that simple to understand and have terminology you have to be a Buddhist scholar to interpret. Also, check out Open Mind Zen - it's another American Zen style book that is intelligible to the average reader.

Rating:
Summary: Nothing Special is Everything Special
Review: Like "Everyday Zen" This is one of the most simplistic, practical and meaningful books I have read. It is thought provoking and so filled with warmth and love that I didn't want it to end. It is difficult to believe that any person could convey so much knowledge and understanding in such an easy and enjoyable manner. This book will probably change the way you look at life.

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Summary: Life is not so special .All ideas are illusion,May be!
Review: Miro says:"All Ideas are illusions.May be.Charlotte Joko Beck give us insight in our selfes,Its wonderfull and with the brain not to understand.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent
Review: This book presents excellent, down to earth thinking on how to incorporate spiritual practice in everyday life. I have read many, many books on buddhism, spiritual practice, etc. Charlotte Beck and the Dalai Lama provide the best writing you're going to find on what buddhism means in terms of living a good life. Very highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: perfect, many things I didn't want to hear
Review: This book was very helpful in trying to grasp Zen, which, I guess, is ungraspable. It was full of many things I didn't want to hear about reality, that is why I love the book.