A Neurosurgeon's Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart

This is a very moving book that makes you realize that it is not money that buys you happiness but service and compassion to your fellow human beings. As a doctor, we all start out for altruistic reasons but the demands and stresses of practicing medicine in today's world can make you lose some of that feeling. I find that now that I am retired and seeing poor patients for free, I feel more connected to the reason I went into medicine in the first place and am enjoying it more.
What a better world this would be if we all thought like Dr. Doty.

I wanted to love this book, but in the end I can only say that I liked this book.

The title of the book lead me to believe that there would be more discussion of cases as a neurosurgeon, and the beginning had me locked in.

I even enjoyed learning about the techniques that Ruth taught him. But, I guess the cynic in me struggles with the idea that anything that we visualize will come to pass. Many things can, and do. But, sadly some things cannot.

I do believe this doctor's path to greater compassion is a wonderful blessing in his life and in the lives of so many that he has impacted for good, and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to read it. It has strengthened my desire to treat try harder to treat others with more compassion and kindness.

A moving coming of age story. Visualization and meditation are very good tools in life.

One star taken away by the adoration of Dalai Lama near the end, since "His Holiness" represent a culture of slaveowner and kidnapping of children and torturers, brainwashing of generations of Tibetans, masked with dumbfounding platitudes. yuk. Surest Gateway to Hypocrisy.

Still I highly recommend this book.

I'll keep it pithy....One of the best books I've read helping introduce to the average, tv programmed, self-centered, victim minded westerners to the actual fundamental concepts that the whole over blown commercialized and stripped of any spiritual heft like "The Secret" fad.. I say fad because alchemy has been and will be around for ages but the secret and the like are for the takers, the gimme crowd, true alchemy is based on what Dr. DOTY explains using his practical and often times harrowing experiences that many can relate in one context or another.

The only critique I have is I wish he would have touched more on the metaphysics and alchemy aspects i.e., more detail about his understanding of synchronicity, manifesting material reality, etc. But it's still a great book for skeptics to the outer dimensional planes of reality and true believers who've experienced what Dr. DOTY describes first hand.

I read this book cover to cover on a plane and really couldn't put it down. Dr. Doty's story of his life and what helped him navigate it is so inspiring. Being a Physician gives him the often necessary credibility behind his convictions and endeavors on, really, all of our behalf. His practice of compassion and kindness has come from struggle and discontentment with his personal human condition, something we all go through but don't all arrive at such a divine place. From this same point of reference he has created so much to help make a more loving world. I, for one, sincerely appreciate his efforts and add to his creation in my own life, as we all do in our own way, no matter how seemingly small the contribution. Again, a truly inspiring book.

To whomever picks up this book, prepare to be moved beyond your wildest expectations. If you have ever studied Zen, this will add a powerful dimension to your practice. If Zen is not in your scope, that will not matter at all. This book is not about Zen, it is about Life and about Love and the ultimate merging of both that results in something more powerful, more amazing, than both combined. And all of it is true.

What an amazing story! It touched my heart very deeply. This should be required reading for every high school student. It shows that no matter the circumstances you grow up in, you CAN change your life. A must read!

Although I know why Dr. Doty presented ideas as he did (it was in fact a quest), I felt the authors voice was at times in conflict with his message...not as humble as I would have expected given the ideas he was sharing.

That said, the message of opening your heart to compassion still needs to be heard in this world and I appreciated his sharing it by writing his book.

Mind and body studies continue to help us understand what we have control of...and what we still can't grasp...in the form of the spirit of love.

Mr. Doty might leave you speechless, but his words and life story don't need words in response- just an open heart.
This book earned five stars instead of four due to my own connection to the author's childhood and compassion. The overall writing reads well, repetitious of phrases or words being the only drawback- but that's due to my own pet peeves. In fact, I believe that the repetition is intentional(haha), as the whole point of the "magic" is repetition.
To put it simply: a must-read guide to a truly happier life.

Just finished reading it a few minutes ago and I had to skim the last thirty or so pages. Hard to keep reading about somebody else’s fairytale life. Hard luck stories are not hard to come by.

As for the meditation advice it would have been better to listen to a free podcast or perhaps purchase a book dedicated to the topic.

This was an inspiring book and a quick read. Well written, intelligent and I know what he says to be true. I disagree with his take on life after death and God, but he knows Gods truth regardless. Spot on. Excellent at teaching the power of meditation.

James Doty should never have been able to achieve his goals, given his impoverished, dysfunctional background, but one visiting woman taught him all he needed to know to create a life full of magic. A remarkable, feel good story. I feel so inspired!

Really loved this book. Written in an approachable way, but very thorough in detail and so interesting. I definitely recommend reading this if you are looking for some positive motivation. You will enjoy the reader's story.

interesting book. I read it because it was recommended to me, otherwise I would not have been interested. At times hard to read as the "flow" is interrupted with random details that do not seem to fit the story.

This book was recommended to me by a good friend, though I had no idea what I was getting into. Dr. Jim Doty at once captivated my heart and soul with his deeply spiritual yet whimsical novel. As I chose the audio book, it soon became evident that I was to make the full 800 mile drive under the influence of this enchanting real-life fairy tale. Thank you for validating that my style of spirituality is not all that unique!

I bought this to gain more information on meditation and it definitely offers that. But you will also receive a huge spiritual benefit.
I believe anyone that reads this book will find a way to be a better human being.

I enjoyed the book. Information that I came across when I was in my twenties; about 40 years ago. Interesting to read how someone else came across the mind power. Enjoyed the little portal of neurosurgeon's self calming discipline.

It is the best book I have read in this decade. The book changed how I view the future, how I deal with the present and let go of painful memories in the past. The book makes me admire Dr. Doty even more, someone who came from humble beginnings and has reached happiness and success with constant focus on true compassion.

This book can change our world for the better. Anyone can practice kindness and compassion and change their lives. The meditation tips are very practical. The story is riveting. The message is personal, uplifting. Best book I have read in a very long time.

I loved the book when it told the story of Doty's childhood and his lessons with Ruth. But he became very arrogant when he went to college, and that arrogance seemed to remain with him through the rest of the book. I could barely finish the book because he came off as being so insufferably arrogant as an adult, even when he met the Dalai Lama. What a disappointment.

I enjoyed the book. Easy to read though more of a story telling narrative. Some of the passages seemed a bit trite, but probably to make some points important to the author. No new ideas, however presented in a readily digestable way. I was a bit disappointed with the continued emphasis on 'think and believe something and it will occur'. However I do agree with the emphasis on self belief, values-based personal growth combined with hard work. I liked the trials and tribulations and growth experienced by the author as well as the connection between psychology, physiology and the 'heart'.

This is a wonderful book!! I enjoyed it so much I sent it to my daughter. It gives you great hope that you can succeed at anything you choose. You have tremendous power in your mind, and I believe you can be happy or sad, your choice!! Enjoy!

I tank this as one of the top 5 books I've ever read. It's an inspiring story that provides step-by-step instructions that anyone can use, to change their lives. If you don't have everything you want, or think you want, this book is for you!

I highly recommend this book. This man and neurosurgeon's sharing of his journey and the magic that he learned as a child, that he powerfully used to create and transform his life, in many stages along the way, touched me deeply. I am inspired by his sharing and motivated to continue to use the practical magic tools he describes, which have been in my own toolbox for many years, though not since childhood. He reminds us to continue to drop out of our heads and into our hearts and the value of this way of living, for humanity. Thank you. ???

I rarely write a review. But I have to urge you to read "Into the Magic Shop." This entertaining, fascinating, brilliant page-turner will work its magic on you at a level far deeper than intellectual and will change your life. Bravo, Dr. Doty!

Wonderful story of hope and connection making some very impotant points about both benifits and dangers of intent and meditation. It highlights how compassion and common humanity are the most important things in life.

This was an amazing book! At times I wondered whether it actually all happened, and then I realized that Dr. Doty speaks from the deepest source of truth. I only wish that he offered courses for the public.

I tank this as one of the top 5 books I've ever read. It's an inspiring story that provides step-by-step instructions that anyone can use, to change their lives. If you don't have everything you want, or think you want, this book is for you!

I highly recommend this book. This man and neurosurgeon's sharing of his journey and the magic that he learned as a child, that he powerfully used to create and transform his life, in many stages along the way, touched me deeply. I am inspired by his sharing and motivated to continue to use the practical magic tools he describes, which have been in my own toolbox for many years, though not since childhood. He reminds us to continue to drop out of our heads and into our hearts and the value of this way of living, for humanity. Thank you. ???

I rarely write a review. But I have to urge you to read "Into the Magic Shop." This entertaining, fascinating, brilliant page-turner will work its magic on you at a level far deeper than intellectual and will change your life. Bravo, Dr. Doty!

Wonderful story of hope and connection making some very impotant points about both benifits and dangers of intent and meditation. It highlights how compassion and common humanity are the most important things in life.

This was an amazing book! At times I wondered whether it actually all happened, and then I realized that Dr. Doty speaks from the deepest source of truth. I only wish that he offered courses for the public.

This is the most compelling, thoughtful, honest and interesting books I have read on the topic of self discovery, personal improvement and the potent human capacity for greatness, all woven together with science and an authentic true story that any one can relate to. Thank you for writing your story. At least 3 times during the course of reading this book I put it down to either write my goals or visualize them, which I have not stopped doing since.

Mr. Doty's discoveries, although from an "atheist," outline what true religion and Christ-like love have been about for millenia. It's good to see anyone find true compassion and love for others in their own life journeys. We all need to open our hearts and care and love more.

Compassion and kindness extraordinaire: a young boy's search for a lost false thumb and in so doing forever changes his life and ours by his life story. May all who hear what you have shared in these pages give them hope to change and care about each other, it has changed me, thank you from the bottom of my heart and brain and a special thanks to your wife who totally truly understands compassion and kindness for you, your children, your patients and the world, you are blessed.

Throughout his book, Into the Magic Shop, neurosurgeon Dr. James Doty, took me on a gripping emotional roller-coaster ride.

Coincidentally or not, many of the experiences he so artfully chronicles – from dreaming at a tender young age of becoming a doctor to being taken under the wing of a wise soul to the heartache of losing loved ones, patients, and money – mirrored many of my own life experiences.

I was profoundly touched, moved, and inspired by his captivating stories that vividly illustrate the indomitable power of love, courage, willpower, and compassion to transcend one's circumstances, fears, self-doubts, and perceived limitations.

Beyond the stories themselves, the mindfulness exercises woven throughout the book are powerful practices for opening one's heart and mind to the magic of being human.

If you're open to embracing the unfolding possibilities of what it means to be human, read this book, practice the exercises, then buckle up for the joyride of your life.

– George C. Huang, M.D., founder, Freedompreneur Coaching & Consulting

From time to time, I think everyone dreams about finding some magic formula to solve all their problems and create an ideal life. More often than not, those incidents only happen in fictional tales. But in the summer of 1968 when he was only 12, Jim Doty walked into a magic shop and it forever changed his life and the lives of countless other people.

Into The Magic Shop, by Dr. James Doty, is the amazing story of what happened by that chance encounter. Jim was only 12 years old at the time. For some strange reason, Ruth, the mother of the magic shop owner saw some hidden potential in Jim and agreed to mentor him over the summer. What follows is one of the most remarkable and magical stories you will ever read.

The story is so remarkable that about half way through the book, I Googled Dr. Doty to confirm the facts of the book.
Jim came from a terribly dysfunctional family. It would have been exceptional for him to have achieved even a modest level of success. But based on the lessons Ruth taught him, he achieved success most people only dream about.

Ruth taught Jim to meditate. She taught him how to focus, how to clear the mind, and how to set intentions. She tried to teach him to open his heart, but that was a lesson he would only learn much later in life.

Jim’s dream was to become a doctor. He was barely passing undergraduate studies in college. Getting into med school seemed totally out of the question. But because of the “magic” of meditation, focus and setting intentions, he achieved the impossible. He went on to become a neurosurgeon.

One of the goals he set as a child was to become wealthy. He did that and more. But because he had not learned the most important lesson – opening his heart – he lost his fortune and had to start over. But going back to the lessons he had learned as a child, he rebuilt his life and career.
The book is a memoir, one of the most exciting and memorial I have read. The book is a real “page turner”. I found it very difficult to put down. The story starts strong and finishes stronger. You are pulled along as the stories unfold, his life takes on many twists and turns.
Jim did learn the final lesson – opening his heart. He now heads the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford. The Dalai Lama is a significant contributor to CCARE.

We often judge people by predetermined criteria. By most objective measures, Jim Doty would have been turned down for medical school. The world would have been shortchanged. By his own admissions, he has made mistakes. But the good he has done and continues to do greatly outweigh any mistakes.

This is an inspiring, hear- warming story. It should help you bring more compassion for others into your own life.

One of the real outstanding books I have read this year.

Into The Magic Shop is an easy read and fairly interesting one. It's motive however, has some basis in meditation and some in the law of attraction. I wasn't quite expecting this when I picked it up. I am so interested in the plasticity in the brain and it's lightly covered here. Our brain's ability to rechart and grow is really a cool concept. Old pathways can become obsolete if we focus on new routes of thought. Fascinating stuff for this reader, but there isn't quite enough of that in this book. For a person unfamiliar with meditation and focus, this is a great book. If you are not new to such ideas, this may be a rehashing of familiar stomping grounds.

I like the instructional pages of this book, covering relaxation technique, focus, and meditation. For me though, it was a retelling of ideas that I am familiar with and though easy to read and intriguing, I didn't really learn much new stuff in these pages.

You can change your brain and your heart-if you are new to this, read this book-it lays a great foundation. Cultivating compassion should be more popular in this society which is filled up with millions of 'mes.' In this book are great thoughts on the like. This is a simple book that has some good, and big ideas. I am just familiar with the content and have read a few books on the subject so nothing was really new here.

What's fascinating about this book isn't that it tells the stories of two people: a world-famous Neurosurgeon who has made his millions saving lives by performing intricate life-or-death procedures on the brain and a boy living in poverty and relative hopelessness with an alcoholic dad and a suicidal mom until one day he walks into a store that sells magic tricks and discovers an adult who takes a benevolent interest in him. It is that they're the same person. In addition to providing readers with a new lens through which to view ourselves as people and understand how our bodies function and how we can have more control over them, Into The Magic Shop shows how a simpler truth plays out: all it takes is one well-intentioned and highly involved adult to change the life of a kid on the brink. That said, I hate the cover.

Through patient explanation and gentle questioning, Ruth (the magic shop owner's mother) leads young Jim through the process of learning how to focus his thoughts on fixed goals and control his physical response to emotional stimuli--an invaluable tool for a child living in such a stressful home situation as his. Those lessons are included within the book for the reader to follow along at home. More than that, Ruth shows Jim with her own fixed goals and purposeful behavior that he matters.

Once Jim has control of himself and knowledge of his own worth, he ventures forth from the aisles of fake thumbs and trick playing cards to forge his path to success. With alternating bravado and humility, Jim tries to remember the teachings Ruth passed along to him while also leaving his heart squarely fixated on the almighty dollar. Will he ever be able to completely put away the greed that can result from a childhood lived in poverty and fear of there never being enough to fully embrace the valuable lessons Ruth has to offer?

If you're interested in Neuroscience, meditation, or the link between the two, follow him Into The Magic Shop to find out!

James Doty was clearly headed to a difficult future, if his past was any measure. Born to an alcoholic father and a depressive mother, his family life was unstable and he had no sense of his future. That is until he met a generous stranger that saw his potential. She saw in James what he did not see in himself, potential. Over the next six weeks she decided to share her gift with him. One that would change his future and in this book he shares that gift with the reader.
Ruth taught him to relax and focus with meditation and to dream of a future as if it was the present. In that, he chose his future.
Even before she finished it helped him sort out his emotions and how he dealt with situations and opened opportunities for him. He credits her training with his career as a neurologist and in the chapters, where she teaches him her tricks, he sums up each and points to an online reference where you can listen to the lesson. At this time, since it is before the book has been released, there did not seem to be an audio component online, so I can’t speak to that.
But in a nutshell
Trick 1 is to relax
Trick 2 is taming the mind
Trick 3 is to open the heart
Trick 4 is clarifying your intent.
Further on, James writes of his life as a doctor when he felt he lost his way, with family and friends and found himself alone, though wealthy. Later once again clarifying his goals his financial situation was not the best, but he felt he was more on the path he set out with. Ruth had warned him, be careful what you wish for. Later he continued on and expanded on her ideas with a means of remembering what is important.

I found this first part of this book when James was learning the “tricks” the most interesting. Later, I felt it was just facts and recall. Clearly important, but the voice was different. There did not seem to be as much life to these later pages. Either way, the author is clearly making an attempt to share what he learned and in his work with CCARE has done even more.

I'm not all that impressed with Into the Magic Shop. While I can appreciate the anecdotal nature of the first part of the book where an old woman teaches a young Doty mindfulness under the guise of "magic", but I don't necessarily believe it. I believe that mindfulness is a great way to dispel and manage stress, but the way Doty presents it, honestly... this whole book feels like a humble brag.

The entire second half of the book, after going through the steps of how suggests the reader practice mindfulness, follows with Doty discussion of how much money he is worth and how he just luckily stumbled into the position he is in by wishing for it. His narrative often made him sounds a little incompetent and impossibly lucky, and *that's* what I don't buy. Success takes some visualization, but it also takes a lot of hard work. Trust me, if you fail your classes and then visualize yourself getting into med school, you're not getting into med school, you know?

The underlying themes are good here, but the writing and presentation are so egotistical. This wasn't the book for me.

I found James Doty's book to be both fascinating and inspiring. He begins his tale by recounting an encounter he had when he was a child. He grew up in poverty in the California High Desert, the son of an alcoholic father and a severely depressed mother. He was a fan of magic,, and one day we rode his bike to the magic shop in town, where he encountered Ruth, the shopkeeper's mother who was visiting from out of state. That magical encounter changed his life. Ruth offered to teach him a different kind of magic that summer if he would promise to practice the exercises she gave him to do.That summer changed his life and set him on an unlikely path to college, medical school, a career as a surgeon, and as a researcher who studies the relationship between the brain and the heart..

Ruth's summer course for James included exercises that have led to lifelong disciples of meditation, relaxation, mindfulness, and empathy for others. It was a spiritual course without dogma. In his introduction to the book, Dr. Doty shares a harrowing story of a surgery that went wrong, and how he was able to keep himself and his body from panic when a young boy's life was on the line and apparently ebbing away. In those weeks with Ruth that summer long ago, young James had learned about what he would eventually be able to call "neuroplasticity" - the ability to learn new things and rewire the way our brains work and think.

The subtitle of this book gives an accurate picture of the journey that the reader will go on as he follows the path that James Doty took from that dusty summer to becoming a Professor of Neurosurgery at Stanford University, and Director of The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. The Center works in close cooperation with the Dalai Lama. The subtitle: "A Neurosurgeon's Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart."

This book is one that should be enjoyed by anyone willing to learn more about the ineffable connection between the heart and the head. Using science and personal experience, Dr. Doty reveals some of the magic in those connections.

This book was nothing like I expected, which wasn't a bad thing. I keep being drawn to books about positive thinking, meditation, intention, etc. The author starts the story off with a jolt describing the sound of skin being removed from a skull. (Don't worry-the book really isn't about gross procedures) He is a neurosurgeon after all. But mostly this story is about the author growing up poor with a mentally ill mother and a drunk father. By chance (?) he meets Ruth at a local magic shop and she teaches him life long lessons that help him. I enjoyed Ruth's "tricks" that were explained in more detail at the end of chapters. There is also intothemagicshop.com to listen to audio versions of exercises. I haven't done that yet, but plan to do it soon. Sometimes, the author let his ego get in the way. This was the part of the book that disappointed me, but it's refreshing though when he looks back and understands what he was doing wrong and he changes his behavior eventually. This book gives hope to know that your thoughts and your heart can direct your path in life. The author has done wonderful things in his life and sharing his experience in this book is one of them. Recommended.

This beautiful book tells the story of a boy who learns the "magic" of mind control from a kind old woman, and turns his life around. He comes from a poor and abusive family, and his future looks very bleak. But by learning how to use his mind, he becomes a wealthy and influential brain surgeon.

The "magic" in this book is nothing new. It's basic relaxation, mindfulness, affirmation and goal-setting. However, the concepts are presented in a fresh and easy-to-understand way that is very appealing. I was thankful for being reminded of these timeless concepts.

Also, the back story behind the lessons is lovely. Through the kindness of a stranger, a lonely boy learns how to make a success of himself.

I found this book to be really inspirational and uplifting. And I loved watching a loser turn into a big winner, lose his soul, and then find meaning through giving back to the world.

I found the book inspirational--all that he did to achieve success given humble beginnings. He describes how he met someone (in a magic shop) who taught him how to relax, calm his mind, focus on what he wanted to achieve and eventually learn how to open his heart. He achieved a lot more than one would expect from his circumstances--becoming a neurosurgeon. Some reviews comment that he comes across as arrogant. He may at times, but that is part of the story, and he moves beyond that. He explains a process and view of life that can truly help many people and especially people recovering from illness and surgery. His message was important for me, and I would expect for many others. Plus, I found it a quick fascinating read.

"There are not accidents", words immortalized by Kung Fu Panda and Freud, rang true as I encountered this book. While I found it via serendipity, after reading it, I feel that this book waited for me to find it. Applying its techniques, I find myself adhering to a healthier mental lifestyle. The thesis of this book mirror that of Robin Sharma's "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari", and upon writing "Into the Magic Shop" Doty claims no knowledge of Sharma. If two distinct people can write books of identical topics with zero knowledge of each other, then there must be some veracity to the principles outlined here. This book continues to help me perform wonders and consequently I have no qualms in gifting it to others

The concept behind "Into the Magic Shop" is compelling--how a kid's rough life is turned around when he unexpectedly meets an eccentric who teaches him the powers of persuasion. The opening chapters, especially those in the OR, are so well written. The boy is likable, someone to root for. The lessons he takes away are valuable ones. Alas, this book should have ended there. Instead it goes on and on with the boy now turned man, who as it turns out is not all that likable. And frankly, once the adult James entered the picture, I no longer cared what happened to him. Reading about two-thirds of the book made me feel like the author's publisher said, "Great concept but you need expand it into a character arc." Bad decision. The conflicts felt forced--woe is me I'm a rich doctor who used everything I learned as a kid to my own advantage and had to lose it all to learn how to use it for the good of mankind. Yawn. Stop at the end of Part I of this book and you'll be happy you did.

I downloaded a sample and really enjoyed the first chapter so I bought the book. When the 12 year old James Doty walked into the magic shop, I started regretting my purchase. Oh no! New age baloney, I thought. Yes I believe in the mind body connection, the power of meditation, etc. No, I do not believe in new age whooey. Nor do I believe that the 12 year old James Doty walked into a Magic Shop and was trained by the woman Ruth. The author made that up, which is fine if the book was categorized as fiction. It's the same old story, think and grow rich, the "secret". Plus, the book has a lot of 5 star the store Vine reviews, which means the publisher donated free copies to solicit reviews. I have yet to read a bad the store Vine review. Very disappointed, so I returned the book.

A fortuitous meeting at a magic shop helps a young boy realize his dreams. Using the techniques taught him by a wise and gentle woman, the boy transcends the troubled and impoverished environment of his childhood and becomes a rich, successful surgeon. But wealth and success lead him off the spiritual path. It is only when he returns to a heart centered life that he regains perspective and truly appreciates the magic of the method.

More memoir than scientific study, this is an enjoyable read. The author shares his story,warts and all. He interspersed his personal tale with accounts of patients he worked with. The method,esse finally a combination of physical relaxation, mental clearing, heart centering and visualisation, wi be familiar to students of the law of attraction. He includesseparate pages for each of the "magic tricks" as well as a web address where an audio version can be accessed. The author advocates a heart based approach. Given his training I had hoped to see some movement towards balancing of the three brains,head heart and gut. Still an interesting and informative read.

From the instant I had read the stunning introduction, I was drawn to finish the entire book. The story of a child who was dealt a rough status in life, who had a serendipitous encounter with someone who cared, is just simply amazing. Written spectacularly, and depicted with rich color to illustrate the pain he felt, you will find this book sprints to the top of your favorite list. I am recommending it to everyone. As a Navy Mom I write to multiple youngsters in the military and I share this with them too, so that they can take control of their struggles. Thank you, Dr. Doty.

Into the Magic Shop caught my attention because of the author’s credentials - according to the back of the book, Doty is a professor in the Dept. of Neurosurgery at Stanford University. His book, however, is far more simplistic than other books on the mind-body connection that I have read, and, most disappointing, it presents some questionable beliefs.

This is written on a very simple level and is mainly an autobiography, with only very basic principles of the mind-body connection offered. This principles are collected in 4 sections titled “Ruth’s Tricks”, each of which is only 1 ½ to 2 ½ pages long.

If that was all the criticism I had, I would suggest that this would be a good book for a struggling teen who could use some inspiration. But, as I got further into the book, I saw that this was not a good option. Even those with poor reading skills can find better books on the mind-body connection.

About half way into the book, the author tells us about when he learned that visualization, by itself, can bring material things into your life. He doesn’t present visualization as something that can help motivate you in your pursuit of something; rather he says that if you visualize something in enough detail and often enough (one of his examples is about wanting a Rolex watch), it will be yours.

This isn’t a valid mind-body connection component. Yes, visualization can be very, very, helpful in influencing your mind, mood, and health. It can motivate you to achieve. It can’t, however, make a watch, the rent money, or a million dollars (all of these are his examples) pop into your life. IMHO. If your opinion differs, then you may like this book. If you agree with me, then you will probably be best off passing on this book.

For those with an interest in the mind-body connection and wanting a book that offers a look at what science does, and doesn’t know, I highly recommend Jo Marchant’s Cure: A Journey Into The Science Of Mind Over Body.

I enjoy reading memoirs, bios, autobios & this memoir didn't disappoint! I used to think, " why would anyone read these if not about famous people?" I've figured my answer to be---because not only famous people lead extraordinary, entertaining & educational lives! In fact, I think the average memoir on "average" people are either equally, if not even more fantastic

This is the story of a neurosurgeon but it starts off by telling the reader how he became interested in what he does today. As a child, he lived in a somewhat boring little town when he lost his fake thumb he used for magic tricks. He stumbled into town & found a magic shop, & he found so much more inside the store that day than he'd realize at the time. The woman who was helping out working there,managed to convince him to see her & it was she, that taught him real magic, not fake, illusionary magic

It's really a wonderful journey from boy to intelligent, experienced neurosurgeon that makes this book special & had me interested in this "non famous" person's life.

I highly recommend if you enjoy reading non fiction, memoirs etc. I believe every life has a story to tell. Some might be just average but in most cases, I think we can all learn a lot from other people's lives & maybe apply some experiences or lessons to our own lives. Truly a magnificent & fun story to read. Dr James Doty MD was able to keep my interest & learn many life lessons along the way

I won this in Goodreads giveaway as an ARC. Many thanks to GR & Penguin Random House publishers--it really was magical in more ways than I expected. In return I've given an honest review

Well, first of all, I read this book because I had brain surgery in February of this year and was immediately fascinated that a book was written by a neurosurgeon who shared his experience in a magic shop when he was a young boy and how that experience affected his life from that time forward. I breezed through it easily and am now practicing the tricks Jim learned from Ruth. These are skills everyone can benefit from. If a boy who came from a poor andhighly dis functional family could survive and later live his dreams using Ruth's "tricks", anyone can.
PS. I recommended this book to my own neurosurgeon.

James Doty is a neurosurgeon whose life couldn't have slipped lower when he had a chance encounter in a magic store where he was looking for a trick thumb. Part great biography where one's life transforms only to have everything taken away and part moment of discovery where the brain meets the heart and a moment of newly found clarity leads to many discoveries and revelations as to how to lead a better, fuller existence, this book seemed almost destined for me to read because I have always believed in a symbiotic correlation between the brain and heart or emotions.
I am currently processing what I have just read. While Dr. Doty's experiences are unique to his own life, I feel that there is the potential for a magic shop in all of us that depends on how we use the knowledge and experiences that pour forth and it all depends on how we perceive that information and carry it over to our own lives.

I was captivated by Dr. Doty’s story, which is the heart and soul of this book. Had he just outlined his methodology for compassion and kindness and opening your heart, it would have fallen flat and been without context, applicability, or relatedness. His willingness to share all the (sometimes messy) parts, all of his thoughts, and all of his choices, truly fills out and provides the framework and accessibility of his beautiful and impassioned case for creating and living life from a heart-centered and heart-wide-open place.

I love this Audiobook. It is a great story about the power of the mind and meditation to get your life where you want it to be. I do believe the techniques in this book do work.And I love the narrator of the book. If you are looking for something to get your life on track and you are open to meditation and law of attraction then this book is for you.

An inspiring story of how a boy from a dysfunctional family, dealing with alcoholism, depression, eviction and poverty wound up as a professor of neurosurgery and the founder of a center that studies compassion and altruism at Stanford thanks to the interest of a stranger who reached out to him. James was 12 when he ventured into a magic shop and instead of merely learning parlor tricks was taught exercises in mindfulness, metaphysics and compassion by Ruth, the mother of the shop owner. Over the summer she taught him 4 lessons: relax the body, tame the mind, open the heart, and clarify your intents. The compassion lesson didn't take at first and even after he achieved material success, he needed to learn to open his heart.

The book is less about neurology than the practice of compassion. There IS a heart-brain connection that is well-researched. The Heartmath website has links to the research if you are interested in following that up. And Doty does discuss some of that. But this is more about the mind than the brain, compassion rather than the physical heart.

The book is recommended by some great reviewers, the most notable being the Dalai Lama, but including Abraham Verghese, Dean Ornish, Glen Beck and Arianna Huffington. (He does understand marketing!) The book is compellingly written, engrossing and hard to put down.

I have some issues with his belief about visualization. It is a powerful motivational technique but he almost describes it as magically manifesting the desired outcome. A bit like "Name it and Claim it" theology or "The Secret" . But there is no question that he used the technique to profoundly alter his life.

But all in all James Doty's story is inspiring and well worth reading.

A fortuitous meeting at a magic shop helps a young boy realize his dreams. Using the techniques taught him by a wise and gentle woman, the boy transcends the troubled and impoverished environment of his childhood and becomes a rich, successful surgeon. But wealth and success lead him off the spiritual path. It is only when he returns to a heart centered life that he regains perspective and truly appreciates the magic of the method.

More memoir than scientific study, this is an enjoyable read. The author shares his story,warts and all. He interspersed his personal tale with accounts of patients he worked with. The method,esse finally a combination of physical relaxation, mental clearing, heart centering and visualisation, wi be familiar to students of the law of attraction. He includesseparate pages for each of the "magic tricks" as well as a web address where an audio version can be accessed. The author advocates a heart based approach. Given his training I had hoped to see some movement towards balancing of the three brains,head heart and gut. Still an interesting and informative read.

From the instant I had read the stunning introduction, I was drawn to finish the entire book. The story of a child who was dealt a rough status in life, who had a serendipitous encounter with someone who cared, is just simply amazing. Written spectacularly, and depicted with rich color to illustrate the pain he felt, you will find this book sprints to the top of your favorite list. I am recommending it to everyone. As a Navy Mom I write to multiple youngsters in the military and I share this with them too, so that they can take control of their struggles. Thank you, Dr. Doty.

Into the Magic Shop caught my attention because of the author’s credentials - according to the back of the book, Doty is a professor in the Dept. of Neurosurgery at Stanford University. His book, however, is far more simplistic than other books on the mind-body connection that I have read, and, most disappointing, it presents some questionable beliefs.

This is written on a very simple level and is mainly an autobiography, with only very basic principles of the mind-body connection offered. This principles are collected in 4 sections titled “Ruth’s Tricks”, each of which is only 1 ½ to 2 ½ pages long.

If that was all the criticism I had, I would suggest that this would be a good book for a struggling teen who could use some inspiration. But, as I got further into the book, I saw that this was not a good option. Even those with poor reading skills can find better books on the mind-body connection.

About half way into the book, the author tells us about when he learned that visualization, by itself, can bring material things into your life. He doesn’t present visualization as something that can help motivate you in your pursuit of something; rather he says that if you visualize something in enough detail and often enough (one of his examples is about wanting a Rolex watch), it will be yours.

This isn’t a valid mind-body connection component. Yes, visualization can be very, very, helpful in influencing your mind, mood, and health. It can motivate you to achieve. It can’t, however, make a watch, the rent money, or a million dollars (all of these are his examples) pop into your life. IMHO. If your opinion differs, then you may like this book. If you agree with me, then you will probably be best off passing on this book.

For those with an interest in the mind-body connection and wanting a book that offers a look at what science does, and doesn’t know, I highly recommend Jo Marchant’s Cure: A Journey Into The Science Of Mind Over Body.

I enjoy reading memoirs, bios, autobios & this memoir didn't disappoint! I used to think, " why would anyone read these if not about famous people?" I've figured my answer to be---because not only famous people lead extraordinary, entertaining & educational lives! In fact, I think the average memoir on "average" people are either equally, if not even more fantastic

This is the story of a neurosurgeon but it starts off by telling the reader how he became interested in what he does today. As a child, he lived in a somewhat boring little town when he lost his fake thumb he used for magic tricks. He stumbled into town & found a magic shop, & he found so much more inside the store that day than he'd realize at the time. The woman who was helping out working there,managed to convince him to see her & it was she, that taught him real magic, not fake, illusionary magic

It's really a wonderful journey from boy to intelligent, experienced neurosurgeon that makes this book special & had me interested in this "non famous" person's life.

I highly recommend if you enjoy reading non fiction, memoirs etc. I believe every life has a story to tell. Some might be just average but in most cases, I think we can all learn a lot from other people's lives & maybe apply some experiences or lessons to our own lives. Truly a magnificent & fun story to read. Dr James Doty MD was able to keep my interest & learn many life lessons along the way

I won this in Goodreads giveaway as an ARC. Many thanks to GR & Penguin Random House publishers--it really was magical in more ways than I expected. In return I've given an honest review

Well, first of all, I read this book because I had brain surgery in February of this year and was immediately fascinated that a book was written by a neurosurgeon who shared his experience in a magic shop when he was a young boy and how that experience affected his life from that time forward. I breezed through it easily and am now practicing the tricks Jim learned from Ruth. These are skills everyone can benefit from. If a boy who came from a poor andhighly dis functional family could survive and later live his dreams using Ruth's "tricks", anyone can.
PS. I recommended this book to my own neurosurgeon.

James Doty is a neurosurgeon whose life couldn't have slipped lower when he had a chance encounter in a magic store where he was looking for a trick thumb. Part great biography where one's life transforms only to have everything taken away and part moment of discovery where the brain meets the heart and a moment of newly found clarity leads to many discoveries and revelations as to how to lead a better, fuller existence, this book seemed almost destined for me to read because I have always believed in a symbiotic correlation between the brain and heart or emotions.
I am currently processing what I have just read. While Dr. Doty's experiences are unique to his own life, I feel that there is the potential for a magic shop in all of us that depends on how we use the knowledge and experiences that pour forth and it all depends on how we perceive that information and carry it over to our own lives.

I was captivated by Dr. Doty’s story, which is the heart and soul of this book. Had he just outlined his methodology for compassion and kindness and opening your heart, it would have fallen flat and been without context, applicability, or relatedness. His willingness to share all the (sometimes messy) parts, all of his thoughts, and all of his choices, truly fills out and provides the framework and accessibility of his beautiful and impassioned case for creating and living life from a heart-centered and heart-wide-open place.

I love this Audiobook. It is a great story about the power of the mind and meditation to get your life where you want it to be. I do believe the techniques in this book do work.And I love the narrator of the book. If you are looking for something to get your life on track and you are open to meditation and law of attraction then this book is for you.

An inspiring story of how a boy from a dysfunctional family, dealing with alcoholism, depression, eviction and poverty wound up as a professor of neurosurgery and the founder of a center that studies compassion and altruism at Stanford thanks to the interest of a stranger who reached out to him. James was 12 when he ventured into a magic shop and instead of merely learning parlor tricks was taught exercises in mindfulness, metaphysics and compassion by Ruth, the mother of the shop owner. Over the summer she taught him 4 lessons: relax the body, tame the mind, open the heart, and clarify your intents. The compassion lesson didn't take at first and even after he achieved material success, he needed to learn to open his heart.

The book is less about neurology than the practice of compassion. There IS a heart-brain connection that is well-researched. The Heartmath website has links to the research if you are interested in following that up. And Doty does discuss some of that. But this is more about the mind than the brain, compassion rather than the physical heart.

The book is recommended by some great reviewers, the most notable being the Dalai Lama, but including Abraham Verghese, Dean Ornish, Glen Beck and Arianna Huffington. (He does understand marketing!) The book is compellingly written, engrossing and hard to put down.

I have some issues with his belief about visualization. It is a powerful motivational technique but he almost describes it as magically manifesting the desired outcome. A bit like "Name it and Claim it" theology or "The Secret" . But there is no question that he used the technique to profoundly alter his life.

But all in all James Doty's story is inspiring and well worth reading.

I've read hundreds of books about the brain and this the absolute best, hands down. You will be gripped from the first page to the last. Dr Doty is a pioneer in Western medicine. If you follow the practices in this book daily, your life will be unrecognizable. It's crazy that everyone isn't doing this? But I guess we're taught that "life is hard and we have to struggle". That's a load a crap. You can have it all. Life is meant to be good. But we have to first unlearn everything we're taught and trust the universe. Get this book. Change your life!

Wow!! I chose this book for a book club that I conduct in a prison after reading it. This has been by far, the most impactful book for our group. Smooth and captivating read.. touches each and every reader in a unique way...every one that has read it walked away with new skills to face every day life and its challenges.Highly recommend this as a personal read as well as a book club selection!! Our 10 member book club, by word of mouth alone,turned into over 200 of our inmates reading this book. Dr. Doty, at the request of our book club, came and spent the day with our staff and inmate population. When questioned by one of the inmates as to why he would take time from his schedule to spend time with them, Dr. Doty's response was: because you asked me to. Amazing man!! Amazing book!! I highly recommend it as a personal read, as well as a classroom or book club selection. This book rekindled excitement about reading in our group.We are all anxiously awaiting the next book.

Ok, so tons of people love this book, so maybe they are seeing things I am not. So be it. But it just seemed so self-centered and phony for a book that is supposed to be about compassion and a pseudo-Buddhist perspective. The first half of the book is a story of a boy who learns to meditate. What could be and has been described briefly and clearly in hundreds of books about minfulness is tricked out here with magic and mystery. But to this reader is just feels phony. Then we have all the "all I had to do was want something enough and I could get it" part. But what should be a humbling experience of the power of what he learned just sounded like a series of bragging sessions. Then the payoff, about giving and compassion, is so generic and abstract that it sounds like a Sunday school sermon. Where is his compassion for the families he apparently abandoned? Then more bragging.

I very much enjoyed this book. It's Dr. Doty's life story, and it begins with him as a very poor young boy in a very troubled family. He meets an older woman named Ruth at a magic shop, and she teaches him techniques to relax, calm his anxiety, and develop his focus. In this book, he passes these very effective techniques on. I've meditated myself for years and was very familiar- and use, all these techniques already. They do work, and they are presented in this book in a very concise, no-nonsense way that I really appreciate. If you are new to meditation, this is a great, non-religious primer.

I found the book to be very well written, and entertaining. I very much enjoyed the stories of Dr. Doty's determination in his medical studies, and the personal and medical stories that he shared. There's a little bit of 'brain science' scattered through the pages but it's not deep, and it's not much, and if you've had the basics of biology, you should be able to follow it without any problem.

I think this is an extremely inspirational book. The first few chapters, with Ruth's worth with Dr. Doty as a young boy, are perhaps best read one at a time, with practice, but the last half of the book I found to be a page turner of his life's story. I think what I liked most about this book though, was that I found new heroes in Dr. Doty, and Ruth.

Note/Head's Up: I agree with Dr. Doty's belief in visualization as a natural way to bring about change. Some people may see this aspect of the book as less scientific and more 'magical thinking.' I felt he was very clear in explaining that he did not know WHY it seemed to work for him, and I didn't feel like he made any "New Age" claims about that, but he did seem to have faith in the technique.

Highly recommend.

Mysteries of the Brain & the Secrets of the Heart 1/12 1/19 posted 1/27/16
1968, Lancaster, CA., James Jim Robert Doty is the narrator & takes you through his life’s journey of youth, teen & adult where later he became quite the renowned Neurosurgeon.
Not without his ups/downs & obstacles though.
His secret for success Ruth’s Tricks # 1, 2, 3, 4.
& the Alphabet of the heart.

Defiantly used these in my Social Work field with client’s.

When you deep sea dive you learn them also. Or sky diving (military training, life).
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written Autobiography book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Autobiography movie, college PP presentation, mini TV series or documentary. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free Goodreads; Avery (Penguin Random House LLC.); AUCP; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

"Into The Magic Shop" is the kind of book that takes a short time to read, but a long time to truly digest and understand. The author attempts to retell his own awakening as a child and connect that to his career as a neurosurgeon. In many ways he succeeds. He demonstrates the positive attributes he learned from meditation that actually help him perform in his very demanding job. In fact it's easy to infer that he was able to become a doctor because of those positive lessons.

This book is really more of a tale of one man's introduction to meditation and mindfulness than it is a foray into the intricacies of the brain. There are some anecdotes about the author's experiences as a neurosurgeon. And there are some explanations of how meditation actually changes the brain in positive ways. However, those looking for hard science should know that this is not that kind of a focused book. This book is more of a memoir than it is a book of theory.

There are parts of this book that I found difficult to accept. I know what it's like to have a difficult childhood, but I believe that memory can twist our perception of the way things were. Much of this story is told from the author's perspective as a pre-teen, and it's possible that those accounts are colored. Remembering what happened is difficult, but remembering how those events made you feel is even more so. Nevertheless, the value of the lessons that are presented here remains intact.

CONCLUSION

This is a good book for anybody who is curious to learn meditation techniques. And for those who are interested in the brain, this book offers a unique perspective. It may not offer the hard science some readers expect, but it definitely will make you think. Recommended.

Crisply written, full of surprising turns and excellent questions, this is one of the best and most useful books I've read this year.

I've heard it before: Meditating is good for you. Do it, meditate, learn to relax, it's good for you. Go on. So I try and try, and it's boring. Many times it feels just plain silly.

What Doty brings to the conversation is his great knowledge of the body and brain as a neurosurgeon and a life that had a rough start. His mostly absent father drank their money away and disappeared for days. His mother suffered from severe depression, spending most of her time in bed. Because Doty learned to relax, to manage his thoughts and emotions, to come up with a focused intention for what he wanted to do with his life, he grabbed life and shaped it into something of his own devising. But not without some serious bumps.

He wished for money and success and all his trappings, only to find himself alone. He gives up what he thought was most valuable to him, and learns that what we think we value sometimes is what holds us captive.

Not a religious man, he describes several religion-related experiences, including a near death experience, where he floats on a warm river and meets people from his past, only to be yanked back into his living body.

The lesson I appreciate the most is that, it is only when we set ourselves a clear intention that we get where we want to go.

Doty offers a fascinating and thought-provoking journey. Through science and powerful argument, he explains how and why relaxation technique, meditation, opening the heart and setting clear intentions are not just good for you. They are magical powers which, if we all embraced, might make the world a beautiful place.

This is a well-written and easy to read memoir by neurosurgeon James R. Doty. The author shares how as a lonely youth from a troubled home, he encounters a woman who teaches him relaxation techniques and instills him with self-confidence--lessons he learns and that serve him well. Thoughout his life he makes some mistakes and returns to these techniques and principal which help him navigate difficult waters. Some readers may object to the new age philisophy in some parts of the book, however it is an interesting account of Doty's life, some medical anecdotes, and the woman who believed in him as a young man.

A very moving life-story of a compassionate neurosurgeon who brings additional light into the coherence of heart and brain.
James R. Doty makes an essential contribution to reveal the deeper knowledge of health beyond techno-digital slavery.
We need to find the pathway to wisdom in the medical field, which I call "Cardiosophy".
The New York Times Bestseller will be published in 20 countries - the German edition in July 2017 "Der Neurochirurg, der sein HERZ vergessen hatte". The title is somewhat misleading. James R. Doty never forgot his heart, but he discovered the magic link and interaction with his brain.
A great book in our times of transformation.

Roland R. Ropers
Comparitive Culture & Language Research
Founder of the field of "ETYMOSOPHY"

The book was easy to read, it flowed well, and it engaged and kept my interest. And I learned things. Oh, how I learned things! I learned some of the things I’d nibbled around the edges of for years and never understood, except this time I understood them. It’s exhausting and uplifting all at the same time. I have a lot of questions about the way my body is affected by my thoughts and vice versa. I feel the author gave me enough information to answer many of my questions without inundating me with medical terminology. I have just one recommendation to the author: put sources in the next edition (lack of sources took my five-stars down to four and a half). I think this could be a world-changing, life-improving, perennial resource for many, many people, the sort of book that gets recommended and passed along and then repurchased because one wants to always have a copy on one's shelf at home. Posting this review is not the end for me and Into the Magic Shop; I will continue to think about and practice applying many of the concepts.

Must read.

As you read this book, you'll realize the gift Ruth gave Dr. Doty was not only invaluable, loving and compassionate, but something every child should likely get in school.

Empower the minds of our youth....imagine the possibilities. Where could you have gone with such tools? How might it change your community to empower the youth? The world......

Let's make this mindfulness lesson viral and let's see what can happen! Let's all visualize that......

It takes practice and time and more practice, Ruth tells the young boy during a magical summer that she taught him four tricks that would change his life. The lessons are to: relax the body, tame the mind, open the heart, and clarify your intents. Opening the heart was the hardest and took the longest for the boy to learn. It wasn’t until years later that he learned to open his heart and it made all the difference.

This is the story of Jim. We follow his life from his difficult and poor childhood of being a responsible kid living with an alcoholic dad and depressed and suicidal mom, to his perseverance and rise to become a top neurosurgeon and then his fall and rebuilding of a heart based life. It interweaves story, spiritual, scientific, and mystical heart felt life affirming elements. It includes a few pages for self-study on how you can apply each of Ruth’s lessons. The story is real, gritty, beautiful, well written, and engaging.

It reminds me of pieces of many others fables and stories, yet it’s real. It’s, The Secret manifested, its Rich Dad, Poor Dad with a heart, and The Shed with the religion of kindness at the core. The power of magic lives within each of us and it’s waiting to be released; this is the story of how one person released it.

Not what I expected; it's more of a biography/new age fusion than any kind of treatise on neurochemistry or neuroplasticity or anything along those lines. Interesting, though, as sort of a real-life illustration of the power of intention. As an aside, did anyone else notice the author said Hippocrates lived 25,000 years ago, lol? Probably just an editing error, but funny.

I couldn't get past the first page - a poetically graphic description of brain surgery. I can only assume that most of the book isn't as disturbing, but it's a paragraph I can never unread. I'm also avoiding velcro.

I had no idea I was so squeamish, wish I'd been forewarned. I'm giving it 4 stars so my review doesn't effect the book's overall rating.

This author explains how he ignored his first wife and child, and how he sent his second wife and child to live in another state, because his work was too important to spend time with them. The book never returns to his forsaken families, so I am left with the impression that he did not treat them like a husband/father should, even after his epiphany on the importance of altruism and compassion. This serious omission undercut the author's entire premise and ruined the book for me.

ok drew me in from the very first sentence: "There's a certain sound the scalp makes when it's being ripped off of a skull - like a large piece of Velcro tearing away from its source" (subject to change before publication in February). I mean, don't you want to hear more from this author? I'm simultaneously disgusted and intrigued, and I'm reading something I've never read before. The Introduction sent chills up and down my spine.

Memoirs are a wonderful way for common people to learn about extraordinary events when written well. Sometimes people don't have the skills to both be a surgeon and write fluidly about their life, but this is certainly not the case for Doty. He is critical of himself, but not in a judgmental way, and his writing is clear and concise. Reading this book makes you feel good about life.

Not only does he make you feel good about life, but he gives you tips and tools to conquer your fears and anxieties. He talks about science while overlapping it with social science, love, and possibly even some talk about God. He writes about all of these things as if they exist in parallel dimensions and any one of them could be correct, which lends an unbiased view of these three things together in a way I have never heard before.

Besides this, his story is quirky and humorous, but not for the light-hearted; Doty has had struggles in his life that make his story feel real and relatable. He doesn't judge, but he listens passionately. After reading this book I feel that I have the power to be a better person. In an era when most of what we read, watch, and talk about is how to dominate or how to be bigger or better, it's refreshing to read a story that encourages each of us to take responsibility and be a better human.

I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from the author via LibraryThing.com for an honest reveiw.

A really inspiring and intense story of a boy's life. When the author, Dr. Doty was young, he had a less than optimum upbringing. His father was an alcoholic, his mother depressed and suicidal. As is often the case in family situations such as this, the author felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility...both to keep his family together, to look normal from the outside, and maintain his own level of functionality. There is a level of magical thinking that enters into the healing field in all realms.....to heal and recover, the intention has to be present, and the person needing that level of healing needs to learn how to find his intention and work towards fulfilling these needs. Not a lot of neurosurgery type stuff here, it's more a look at the overall lessons of healing.....good medicine, hard work, and the desire and intention to move forward. Well written and engaging.

This book was wise, engaging, and true. I listened to it via Audible.com (narrator very good too!). It was part meditation & positive visualization guide, part autobiography/memoir, and transformative to this reader. MUST READ!

For me this is a book about the journey to learn how to open one's heart. I found it to be profoundly moving. I am very glad I read it. One of the few books I've read that I can honestly say has the potential to be life changing.

I must confess, l listened to this book from my public library, but....it's the same book! I loved this book. As soon as I finished, I started it right back. And I'm picking up much more the second time. I'm also trying meditating like Ruth taught him. (And Ruth.....ummm.... great name)
Ruth

This was such an enjoyable and engaging book to read it makes it easy to recommend it to others. It has stayed with me since finishing it and my mind often turns to the uplifting feelings of hope and possibility it inspires. The effortless flow of story and mindfulness practices was delightful and I think makes it all the more widely appealing to others. It has left me with questions I want to explore further and will do so with the author and share with mindfulness4mothers subscribers.

The power of positive thinking and mindfulness are nothing new, but this is the first time I've heard of a child learning such things. Jim Doty had a pretty poor childhood both financially and also in terms of nurturing. It almost seems as if HE was the adult in his family, worrying and caring about his mother, father, and brother. Then came that fateful day that he met Ruth. Ruth taught him lots of magical things, that not only helped him cope with the life that he'd been dealt, but also how to make the life that he wanted in the future. It's truly amazing that against all the odds, Jim became a neurosurgeon - but most of all, he became the caring and compassionate human being he is today.

* Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC*

10 stars! Loved this book, Dr Doty is a beautiful writer and human being. I bought it for my mom and she loved it and all friends who have read it found it as life-changing as myself. This book ruined me because all books leave a lot to be desired post Magic Shop!!

I absolutely loved this book from beginning to end - I could barely put it down! There was Magic in this book, the way the author pulls you in to each little story but is actually art of the bigger story with so much emotion it's just fantastic. I highly recommend anyone of any age to read this book.

Studying Neuroscience at my uni, I've always been fascinated by brain science books and particularly by those written by experts of the field. After having read more than a dozen on this topic, I came across this beautifully written and hugely insightful book in which the author has been able to merge personal experiences with academic achievements in a truly enjoyable story.
This is the story of someone who made it. As Dr Doty put it, two things are certain about life: to be born and to die, but everything that happens in between is so random that often appears to defy any logic. And his life is a testament to this, but what is most interesting is that he was able to find an order nonetheless and this must stand as an example to all those who struggle on a daily basis and can't picture a better future because the horror of the present doesn't allow that. I think his greatest message is to seek and find calmness in our own mind because this is the place where the change can begin. And this is not subtle change: turning chaos into order and putting your life in perspective can really help to change the way we perceive events, things and people in our life and this can have major effects on our ability to achieve our life goals, provided that these have been set out and clearly defined.
As a passionate student of neuroscience, I found this book truly inspiring and thank the author for writing it. Neuroscience is beginning to explaining the mechanisms by which the brain can be "re-wired" and this offers a solid back up to what Dr Doty is committed to discover: how compassion and altruism can turn not only other people's life for better, but yours too if you practice it.
Good luck Dr Doty, may your findings make this world a better place!

I loved this book. It literally drew me in from the very first page. James Doty is a masterful storyteller. The book is beautiful written and does an incredible job at explaining the science behind the magic that he learned as a young boy. Among the many things that I liked about this book, I appreciated that although he describes himself as an atheist, he talks about spiritual experiences with a great respect never denying or disparaging them just because they do not align with his beliefs. I was also deeply moved by the patient stories that he included in the book. He took great care in enabling the reader to connect with the humanity of each person that was in his care.

My heart and mind remained engaged through the entire book. It left me feeling hopeful that no matter who you are or where you come from, we all have the power to transform our lives and actualize our dreams. It inspired me to reflect on and renew my belief that kindness and compassion are truly the only way. And it empowered me with practical tools to begin that transformational process and to deepen my capacity for compassion.

I am very grateful to James Doty and his teacher Ruth for sharing this beautiful message. It is so important. I highly recommend this book.

Excellent read however I would have liked to have had him talk more about his relationships with his children. Did he reconnect with his son from his first marriage? What about his daughter? He mentions he had these children, but that's it. Did he use what he learned through Ruth to become closer, more connected with his children? You almost forget that he is a father to two children.

This book is amazing. It holds so many truths about how to live a fulfilling life that I can't stop getting excited. I read it in two days while in university full time. I cannot recommend it highly enough. A book to go along with it is the Alchemist! If you read both, your heart will be wide open and you'll be ready to change the world.

I must confess, l listened to this book from my public library, but....it's the same book! I loved this book. As soon as I finished, I started it right back. And I'm picking up much more the second time. I'm also trying meditating like Ruth taught him. (And Ruth.....ummm.... great name)
Ruth

This was such an enjoyable and engaging book to read it makes it easy to recommend it to others. It has stayed with me since finishing it and my mind often turns to the uplifting feelings of hope and possibility it inspires. The effortless flow of story and mindfulness practices was delightful and I think makes it all the more widely appealing to others. It has left me with questions I want to explore further and will do so with the author and share with mindfulness4mothers subscribers.

The power of positive thinking and mindfulness are nothing new, but this is the first time I've heard of a child learning such things. Jim Doty had a pretty poor childhood both financially and also in terms of nurturing. It almost seems as if HE was the adult in his family, worrying and caring about his mother, father, and brother. Then came that fateful day that he met Ruth. Ruth taught him lots of magical things, that not only helped him cope with the life that he'd been dealt, but also how to make the life that he wanted in the future. It's truly amazing that against all the odds, Jim became a neurosurgeon - but most of all, he became the caring and compassionate human being he is today.

* Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC*

10 stars! Loved this book, Dr Doty is a beautiful writer and human being. I bought it for my mom and she loved it and all friends who have read it found it as life-changing as myself. This book ruined me because all books leave a lot to be desired post Magic Shop!!

I absolutely loved this book from beginning to end - I could barely put it down! There was Magic in this book, the way the author pulls you in to each little story but is actually art of the bigger story with so much emotion it's just fantastic. I highly recommend anyone of any age to read this book.

Studying Neuroscience at my uni, I've always been fascinated by brain science books and particularly by those written by experts of the field. After having read more than a dozen on this topic, I came across this beautifully written and hugely insightful book in which the author has been able to merge personal experiences with academic achievements in a truly enjoyable story.
This is the story of someone who made it. As Dr Doty put it, two things are certain about life: to be born and to die, but everything that happens in between is so random that often appears to defy any logic. And his life is a testament to this, but what is most interesting is that he was able to find an order nonetheless and this must stand as an example to all those who struggle on a daily basis and can't picture a better future because the horror of the present doesn't allow that. I think his greatest message is to seek and find calmness in our own mind because this is the place where the change can begin. And this is not subtle change: turning chaos into order and putting your life in perspective can really help to change the way we perceive events, things and people in our life and this can have major effects on our ability to achieve our life goals, provided that these have been set out and clearly defined.
As a passionate student of neuroscience, I found this book truly inspiring and thank the author for writing it. Neuroscience is beginning to explaining the mechanisms by which the brain can be "re-wired" and this offers a solid back up to what Dr Doty is committed to discover: how compassion and altruism can turn not only other people's life for better, but yours too if you practice it.
Good luck Dr Doty, may your findings make this world a better place!

I loved this book. It literally drew me in from the very first page. James Doty is a masterful storyteller. The book is beautiful written and does an incredible job at explaining the science behind the magic that he learned as a young boy. Among the many things that I liked about this book, I appreciated that although he describes himself as an atheist, he talks about spiritual experiences with a great respect never denying or disparaging them just because they do not align with his beliefs. I was also deeply moved by the patient stories that he included in the book. He took great care in enabling the reader to connect with the humanity of each person that was in his care.

My heart and mind remained engaged through the entire book. It left me feeling hopeful that no matter who you are or where you come from, we all have the power to transform our lives and actualize our dreams. It inspired me to reflect on and renew my belief that kindness and compassion are truly the only way. And it empowered me with practical tools to begin that transformational process and to deepen my capacity for compassion.

I am very grateful to James Doty and his teacher Ruth for sharing this beautiful message. It is so important. I highly recommend this book.

Excellent read however I would have liked to have had him talk more about his relationships with his children. Did he reconnect with his son from his first marriage? What about his daughter? He mentions he had these children, but that's it. Did he use what he learned through Ruth to become closer, more connected with his children? You almost forget that he is a father to two children.

This book is amazing. It holds so many truths about how to live a fulfilling life that I can't stop getting excited. I read it in two days while in university full time. I cannot recommend it highly enough. A book to go along with it is the Alchemist! If you read both, your heart will be wide open and you'll be ready to change the world.

It's rare you find a book that strikes a chord so deep as Into the Magic Shop.  Dr. Doty takes you on a journey of suffering and misfortune countered by kindness, compassion, hope, and success.  It is a story that is sure to capture your heart.  His message is simple yet complex but have never heard explained in such a brilliant and convincing way. He gives hope to even the most downtrodden that anyone can find true happiness and change their life circumstances. You won't want to put the book down, and, perhaps, will want to read a second time as I did.  I truly believe Dr. Doty could go down in history as one of our great teachers of all time!

This is a very interesting book essentially about meditation and mindfulness. It's written by a professor and a neurosurgeon, in the form of a personal memoir.

I find parallels between Dr. Doty's life as a child and my own, but alas no magic shop for me to stumble into. No mentor to teach about metaphysics.

I especially appreciate the use of setting intention - as this is a powerful and overlooked practice in most personal development systems and sets of instructions.

It's a good book - light on science if that's what you're looking for, but inspirational.

AMAZING in so many ways! A great guide to learn how to open the heart and become truly happy. I have been meditating and chanting for 33 years and Doctor Doty answered questions I never knew I had. I have ordered several books to give to my friends. A book young people can really benefit from!

This is an inspirational book that was helpful to me at a time I needed it. It is a quick, simplistic story that will give hope to many on how to change their lives for the better against seemingly tough odds. I was definitely in the right space to be receptive for it but obviously opinions will vary.

I read the introduction and was immediately hooked. Great read and it really helped me explain the teaching to others in a non threatening way. (Some believe prayer to God is the only fix)
Toward the end of the book Dr. Doty and I shared a very similar experience. It was as if he was writing about me too. I was VERY emotional.
As I have shared with family and my friends at Saturday meditation group, it's a Must Read!!

I could not put this book down the moment I started reading, I was hooked right from the beginning. Dr. Doty's story is a story of loss and salvation, death and life, destitution and hope. Hope in the power of the human spirit and the indestructibility of faith. I highly recommend this book.