Politics & Social Sciences

Annotated & Explained (SkyLight Illuminations) - Tao Te Ching
Annotated & Explained (SkyLight Illuminations) - Tao Te Ching

Review:I have been a lifelong follower of the Tao and student of the teachings of Lao Tsu and Chuang Tsu. I've read several translations of the Tao Te Ching in both english and Chinese and this is far and away the best translation and interpretation I've had the pleasure to read. One of the most vexing problems for anyone who attempts to explain the ancient teachings of the Tao Te Ching in the west is the barrier of language and culture, and Mr. Lin overcomes this challenge with grace and clarity that ... Read more

The Complete Tao Te Ching and Affirmations - Living the Wisdom of the Tao
The Complete Tao Te Ching and Affirmations - Living the Wisdom of the Tao

Review:Dyer's "version" of the Tao Te Ching is terrible. I call it a version because his translations do not match traditional translations, rather, his translations water down the real messages of the Tao. In fact, attempting to reword them goes againsgt the very teaching and value of the Tao. I am not sure what to make of the book, as it is not the Tao, yet also not a self help book. If one is looking to purchase the Tao Te Ching do not purchase this book because it is not even a loose translation. I... Read more

The Te of Piglet
The Te of Piglet

Review:I purchased this book for a class to read a couple chapters, but kept it to read more about the philosophical spin that Hoff puts on the stories of Pooh.
Very interesting read, and makes one stop and ponder life and its wonders. Read more

An Inquiry into the Value of Work - Shop Class as Soulcraft
An Inquiry into the Value of Work - Shop Class as Soulcraft

Review:As an avid motorcyclist (Harley-Davidson) and cubicle dweller (software engineer), I was intrigued by this book: it spoke in intelligent, cogent, and approachable terms to what I have observed in the workplace - and to what I have felt in my own soul searching. Through introspection, there was a realization (epiphany?) that I get a better sense of satisfaction changing my own oil or getting the FXDWG to start in the springtime than I realize installing a major piece of financial software.
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Lila: An Inquiry Into Morals
Lila: An Inquiry Into Morals

Review:Lila is a brilliant book continuing Pirsig's journey concerning the Metaphysics of Quality in Philosophy.
This book is for those die hard Robert Pirsig fans,psychology majors like myself and true philosopher kings debating Quality.
Its a great book summarizing everything from shamanism to psychiatry to "dynamic quality." It's an interesting romance novel with a philosophical bent. It's all an examination of one woman's sanity and a pure philosophical inquiry into reality.
It's about a ... Read more

Nation
Nation

Review:Terry Pratchett is my favorite author, and Nation is one of his best ever. Though it is billed as a children's story, it speaks to adults as well, and makes us look at how we would react at a time of total upheaval in our life. It is not a Discworld story, but takes place in a world very close to ours. As we celebrate Discworld holidays ( Soul Cake Tuesday, Hogswatch) we now celebrate Mothering Sunday. Read the book to find out! Read more

My Life on the Road
My Life on the Road

Review:Gloria Steinem writes about different kinds of travel with her usual gentle humor and carefully crafted chapters. She introduces the reader to friends she has made along the way, showing her love and admiration for them. But most importantly, like any successful organizer she teaches through memorable stories of her family and of many others from whom she has learned the importance of balance in life. Read more

The Road to Wigan Pier
The Road to Wigan Pier

Review:Published in 1937, George Orwell's The Road to Wigan Pier documents the grinding poverty of northern England, namely Lancashire and Yorkshire. As with Orwell's better-known and somewhat similar Down and Out in Paris and London, the author sets out to investigate the conditions of the poor by living among them and writing about his experiences. There is a chapter on coal miners and mines, and Orwell elucidates on the culture and mechanics of the industry; he goes down a mine to report, taking the... Read more

and Other Affairs of Plain Living - Mountain Crafts and Foods
and Other Affairs of Plain Living - Mountain Crafts and Foods

Review:I am from the Appalachian mountains. I am collecting these books to hand down to my kids. This is definately the perfect way to preserve your roots. I HIGHLY reccomend the whole series. Don't let the old ways die! Read more

A Guide for When Help is Not on the Way - The Survival Medicine Handbook
A Guide for When Help is Not on the Way - The Survival Medicine Handbook

Review:Not a bad book for someone with a medical background to use as a review. Also good to give ideas for improvisation in off grid situation. Would strongly recommend William Forgey's book,"Wilderness Medicine",and the Hesperian Foundation's book, "Where there is no Doctor" as foundation works. They have not failed me in real world situations. Read more

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