Mastermutt

Skimpy

Revisado: 08-16-23

The overall intent of the book seems to be to mimic a casual encounter with a sage.

A few of the anecdotes did seem to offer insight into the practice of Zen. Most, however, were bland and uninspiring.

Much better as a source of guidance are the two books that record the talks of Suzuki which he gave after a period of Zen meditation.

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Know Thyself

Revisado: 10-25-20

If the ancient philosophers were correct, the edict, "Know Thyself," is the secret to human happiness.

But where to begin?

Daniel Gilbert's *Stumbling on Happiness* is a good first step on the road to self-realization.

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A Modern Odyssey

Revisado: 02-19-20

Jon Krakauer is a talented writer and he captures Mccandless in all his naivete and his idealism and, ultimately, in his raw courage as his life comes to a tragic close.

It is a riveting tale that is narrated in a tone that brings Mccandless close to the mind and heart of the listener.

My only small complaint is that several times the recording backtracks and a few sentences are repeated--not enough of an annoyance to distract one for long.

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A Still Timely Analysis of American Culture

Revisado: 06-22-19

A dull narration (with many errors from the original text) of a still timely social analysis of American culture today.

Christopher Lasch displays real insight into the human condition.

Do not skip the afterward as Lasch clarifies some of the main concepts in his book.

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A Literary Classic

Revisado: 05-04-19

The Heart of Darkness remains a literary classic.

Unfortunately, the narrator could not seem to communicate any of the emotions that run like a dark undercurrent throughout the book. His emphasis and his tone, at least at times, seemed wrong.

Or, maybe, no one can really understand what it is like to succumb to nature, to descend into oneself and to go mad at the sight--no one, that is, who has not himself "peeped over the edge."

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A Guide on How To Live

Revisado: 02-05-19

If you have ever struggled to escape the straight jacket of reason, study the example of Zorba the Greek. Courageous, bold, and shrewd, Zorba mastered the art of living passionately without being ruled by his passions.

The sympathetic reader will give Zorba his due when he claimed at the end of his life that men like him should live a thousand years.

George Guidall gives a masterly narration of this classic tale.

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A Simple Guide to Zen Practice

Revisado: 01-20-19

Most religious traditions that use meditation or contemplative prayer as an approach to discovering the truth in this world recommend that a novice seek out a teacher.

Look no further. Shunryu Suzuki is a wise and compassionate guide. Like all good teachers, he will lead you back to yourself.

The narrator is excellent providing a gentle emphasis where you imagine Suzuki would have done so as he delivered his talks.

I rated the story 3 stars simply because it is not a story, but a series of talks by a Zen Master. Even so, the underlying theme on the importance of Zen practice unites these helpful lectures.

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A Simple Guide to Zen Practice

Revisado: 01-20-19

Most religious traditions that use meditation or contemplative prayer as an approach to discovering the truth in this world recommend that a novice seek out a teacher.

Look no further. Shunryu Suzuki is a wise and compassionate guide. Like all good teachers, he will lead you back to yourself.

The narrator is excellent providing a gentle emphasis where you imagine Suzuki would have done so as he delivered his talks.

I rated the story 3 stars simply because it is not a story, but a series of talks by a Zen Master. Even so, the underlying theme on the importance of Zen practice unites these helpful lectures.

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A Revolt Against the Helping Professions

Revisado: 01-03-19

If you have ever wondered why psychologists were allowed to become self-appointed experts on The Human Condition, listen to this book.

Randle McMurphy, the protagonist, is cut from the cloth of Zorba the Greek. He is a misfit and a rebel and he resists the system's attempt to make him conform by making him weak--and his example inspires the other patients to reclaim their dignity as men.

The narrator's rendition is exceptional and we cannot help being inspired as the characters come to life.

Highly recommended.

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Superb Narration Enhances Modern Classic

Revisado: 05-18-18

I read Deliverance many years ago. I had borrowed the book and found written on the inside cover a note to the owner: "One of the best books I've ever read."

At the time (this was some 30 years ago), I thought the book was good, but not one of the best that I had read.

I have changed my mind. Not only does the book speak to the heart of the American man, the excellent narration heightens the tension of the drama and elucidates the subtleties that are there flowing, like the iconic river in the story, between the lines.

Highly recommended.

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