Editorial Review

The Secret revealed the law of attraction. Now Rhonda Byrne reveals the greatest power in the universe -- The Power to have anything you want.

In this book you will come to understand that all it takes is just one thing to change your relationships, money, health, happiness, career, and your entire life.

Every discovery, invention, and human creation comes from The Power. Perfect health, incredible relationships, a career you love, a life filled with happiness, and the money you need to be, do, and have everything you want, all come from The Power.

The life of your dreams has always been closer to you than you realized, because The Power -- to have everything good in your life -- is inside you.

To create anything, to change anything, all it takes is just one thing…THE POWER.

Reviews

A NEW WINDOW INTO PROSPERITY . . ., August 18, 2010
Rhonda Byrne has been a long-time favorite author of mine. Through "The Secret," Rhonda has helped me to have an inner confidence in the law of attraction. I've come to believe that what I think about (in the right way) will come into my life.

In "The Power," Rhonda takes the law of attraction in another direction and teaches the power of using your emotions to FEEL what you want to have so that what you desire will come quicker. It is a way of engaging the mind and heart and getting them to work together.

I felt "The Power" was inspirational, because it reminded me of why we have feelings and the different energy that comes from feelings. Not surprisingly, love is the most powerful feeling . . .genuine love can change anything. . . or any situation.

Rhonda teaches how to use the power of love in all aspects of your life, from relationships to money, to health, and more.

I would highly recommend getting this book along with another that I read early this summer and has meant a lot to me. It seems that there is a 3rd dimension to the Law of Attraction. The best way to describe it is "Serendipity."

I've been so inspired by Serendipitously Rich: How to Get Delightfully, Delectably, Deliciously Rich (or Anything Else You Want) in 7 Ridiculously Easy Steps which was written by Madeleine Kay, along with a foreword by Joe Vitale (a star in "The Secret" movie). This book gives you a really fun and delightful feeling as it moves you positively on a path of change. However, it also gives you some practical steps which are akin to putting the law of attraction into action by teaching how to make decisions based on serendipity.

It is like having a deeper level of faith. It has made a difference for me. . .it might for you too.

I Have A Decision To Make, September 10, 2010
"The Power", by Rhonda Byrne, is a book about the power of love. The author wrote "The Secret" in 2006 and it became a world-wide bestseller. The author promises that this book will add immeasurabley to what you learned in "The Secret".

My father suffered a heart attack and I was spending endless hours at the hospital. One evening, I went to Walmart and I noticed this book on the shelf. I was instantly drawn to it. I spent the next couple of days reading this book as I sat in the hospital. It was a very anxious time but this book helped me gain a different perspective. The "power" in this book is the power of love. Your life is made up of only two kinds of things...positive things and negative things. This book explains how your attitude and way of thinking can make bad things seem better.

Most of the information in this book comes from the New Thought Movement of the early 1900s. These authors taught the principles of positive thinking and the law of attraction. Ms. Byrne quotes many of these authors in this book but she also describes how these principles can be used in everyday life to produce positive results in your life.

My favorite chapter in the book is "Keys To Power". One of the topics in this chapter is the "key of gratitude." Everytime I start feeling down, I think of things that I am thankful for. I am soon feeling much better. Ms. Byrne says, "No matter what negative situation you may find yourself in, you can always find something to be grateful for, and as you do, you harness the force of love that eliminates negativity."

Positive thinking does not always come easy to me. I remember my mom telling me when I was a child, "All you ever do is grumble, gripe and complain." Children tend to live up to spoken expectations so I tend to see the cup as half empty instead of half full. I like this book because it reminds me that changing your mind can change your life. I have a decision to make.

Even better than the Secret!, September 13, 2010
I loved it! I thought it was even better than "the secret", but I love both. I have read "the Secret" several times and will do the same with "the Power". It's easy to flip through for quick inspiration and the book radiates love, which is what the power is about.

Do not judge this, or any book until you APPLY it., September 17, 2010
The one star and five star reviews differ with people's attitude toward what this book calls them to do. It doesn't say sit and salivate and drool with love like a puppy. It tells you to take the attitude of love, meaning positivity in outlook and focus. So if you are the type of person that is mired in negative stuff and you cherish your state, then you will keep saying "buh-humbug" all the way. But if you have had enough of your pity-parties and you want to clear the junk in the attic of your head, then you will decide to APPLY the book's suggestions and God forbid, you may actually get out of your misery corner. So if you have no such intention, then don't waste your money. Not too many of the reviewers seem to have actually tried any of the concepts in the book. So they are not at all talking from experiential evaluation of the book. IF you want to try and APPLY the ideas, the book will be an uplifting start. Take the ideas and build on them, practice thinking only what you love and want, and if you still do not get any results, then come back to review with complaint that it was painful reading. If you honestly put it into practice, you will not need to! If it will sit on the shelf with all your other half-baked, half completed projects of yours, then save time and money now. So my suggestion:

You want to really APPLY and practice the book's way of living = BUY!!!!
You do NOT want to APPLY and practice = Don't buy.

You decide. Simple: In the end what you get is what you want and love.

Yes, I liked this book!, September 7, 2010
When I was in seventh grade, I made my first "vision board." Of course, that was many, many years ago. Back then, I called it (among other things) my "dream poster." I cut up magazines and newspapers and did drawings of things I wanted to do and places I wanted to see. I also wrote in notebooks with different colored pencils a "diary" of all the things I had achieved in life -- before any of it could have actually happened. I focused on my desires. I read biographies and novels and watched movies about people who did what I wanted to do. I worked on making my dreams come true. I got into the schools I dreamed about. I owned a business -- back when the "glass ceiling" in business was proudly made out of solid cement! I took a trip to Europe, and got a newspaper to foot the bill for all the expenses. I danced professionally. Yep, I was on the stage at Lincoln Center once! Later on, I got yet another job of my dreams.

And, I did this while lots of people spun their wheels in the background telling me what a fool I was, that I should give up -- over and over and over again. I've faced ridiculous obstacles, and conquered them every time.

So, I guess I discovered "The Secret" before Rhonda Byrne made it popular. But, even Rhonda Byrne admits that it is not her invention at all! Dream. Focus on those dreams. Keep going, even when reality and so-called realists tell you that you are wasting your time.

I laugh when I read the one-star reviews for The Secret and The Power. Sooo many people have the answer, they think. It's just that their answer is always "no." No, you can't have more money. No, you can't have that career. No, you can't get into that college. No, you can't dance, can't sing, can't paint, can't..... anything. And, for them, people who keep moving on are stupid, because we can't see it their way.

Enjoy your negativity, folks. I can't imagine what I might achieve next. But, I assure you it won't be sitting on my rump insulting others who dare to dream, and dare to achieve.

The Power, by Rhonda Byrne is an excellent book, and I highly recommend it to anyone capable of thinking outside of narrow limitations.

something everyone should own, October 17, 2010
This is a book all should read and have to just open and take in daily. It is amazing how you can start to feel confused or down and just a few pages puts you right on track. It answers alot of questions and helps to understand why we and others do the things we do. And how we can look at something different to DO something differently.

A Bible for us all!, September 21, 2010
Rhonda Byrne's timing in publishing her latest book was perfect! In these trying times when negativity abounds...we should all read and live "The Power"...the world would then be a wonderful place! Thanks, Rhonda, for your beautiful book and thought provoking words.

"The Secret" changed my life. Using the power of positive thinking, my house sold on the day I invisioned, for the amount I wanted, I was able to quit my job at a bank (Great timing there!), and move closer to my children and parents. My future husband then 'found' me and we are now happily married and living the life I had dreamed about. Does the Secret work??? You bet it does! I am living proof. All of my friends and family are amazed at how my life turned around. It can and will for them and for you, if...when...you start to live "The Secret" and harness "The Power"!

What a great way to live......., October 21, 2010
I have finished reading "The Power" for the 2nd time. This book has life changing suggestions to change the way you think to change the way you feel - it tells you how to look for the positive in all situations. Even when it is really hard to find a positive aspect to something that has gone wrong - there is always a lesson to be learned so that in itself is positive. It also has made me realize what love really is - not just for a person or family but for the whole of life. I have just purchased the audio as well because I'm going to take a 2-3 hour driving trip and I would like to listen to it on the way.

I'm not saying you are going to receive a million dollars but I'll bet you'll feel better about it if you don't :)

Barbara Johnson
Cave Creek, AZ

Getting stronger everyday, October 20, 2010
I purchased this book in an airport in Washington DC on my trip home to Florida. I have been battling a life threatening disease for some time now. I love reading Rhonda Byrne. She gives me inspiration to keep up with the fight.

words to live by, October 17, 2010
I love this book and it has changed my life and the way I live. The world would be an even more beautiful place if everyone lived this way. If you want happiness in your life and good things to follow you, read this book. Even after reading it, I still refer to it often, especially if I am having a bad day or a challenge in my life. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Fragments of a Great Secret have been found in the oral traditions, in literature, in religions and philosophies throughout the centuries. For the first time, all the pieces of The Secret come together in an incredible revelation that will be life-transforming for all who experience it.

In this book, you'll learn how to use The Secret in every aspect of your life -- money, health, relationships, happiness, and in every interaction you have in the world. You'll begin to understand the hidden, untapped power that's within you, and this revelation can bring joy to every aspect of your life.

The Secret contains wisdom from modern-day teachers -- men and women who have used it to achieve health, wealth, and happiness. By applying the knowledge of The Secret, they bring to light compelling stories of eradicating disease, acquiring massive wealth, overcoming obstacles, and achieving what many would regard as impossible. ... Read more

Reviews

The Review "They" Don't Want You To Read, March 6, 2007
Catchy review title? Thought so. Robert Cialdini, renowned psychology researcher and author of Influence: The Power of Persuasion (perhaps the best book ever written on the subject) identifies six basic rules employed by politicians, advertisers and scam artists alike to persuade others. Each of them are employed quite adeptly by Rhonda Byrne in this book.

Cialdini's first principle is SCARCITY; people want what's expensive, exculsive, or otherwise attainable. Byrne's mastery of this principle is clearly shown by the very name of the book: The Secret. We all learned this the first week of kindergarten as we felt the jealousy of watching two classmates, hands cupped over ears, sharing a secret out of earshot.

This message is reinforced throughout the book and its advertising campaign which pitches "The Secret" (whatever it actually is) as jealousy-guarded information hoarded by the happy, wealthy and successful. Whenever someone tries convincing you of something, whether it's a way to make enormous sums of money, to lose weight, etc - be wary of when it's pitched as "the knowledge THEY don't want you to have." Think about it - everything from the "secrets that Wall Street doesn't want you to know" to "uncovered - celebrities' secrets to staying young" are phrased not simply to pique your interest but to make you jealous. Appeals to our emotion are far more powerful than appeals to reason, and Byrne demonstrates mastery of this principle throughout "The Secret."

Cialdini's second principle is LIKING. We like those who like us, and in turn, we do business with them. Positive thinking and emotional intelligence has been linked to strong interpersonal relationships, academic and professional success, and good health, but there is a fine line when positive thinking crosses over to unjustified exuberance. Instead of simply noting the substantial benefits of positive thinking (a well-accepted principle which wouldn't sell books), Byrne crosses the line so blatantly that anyone with a modicum of modesty would find it blasphemous.

AUTHORITY is another Cialdini principle, also in play in "The Secret" in quite subtle ways. Another technique which differentiates this book from just another book of positive thinking is the heavy use of quasiscientific language, which gives the impression that the "law of attraction" is (or will become) an accepted scientific principle, just like the law of gravity or the law of attraction of oppositely-charged particles in chemistry. Many people are both intimidated and confused by the authority of science, a fact exploited by manipulators ranging from Byrne to peddlers of magic weight-loss pills.

Since no respected physicist would ever publish a paper on the universality of the "law of attraction," Byrne indirectly seeks experts in other ways. She attributes the success of people ranging from Einstein to Beethoven to adherence of "The Secret," thereby manufacturing experts. After all, if Einstein and Shakespeare mastered "The Secret," who are YOU to question it?

The last two Cialdini principles are CONSISTENCY and SOCIAL PROOF. The success of this book should leave little doubt it will be followed by more (and more expensive) forms of media peddling "The Secret." The audio recordings, weekend seminars, advertising tie-ins, and other follow-up products certain to follow will exploit these two principles. Once people commit themselves to believing happiness will come from "The Secret," they will attribute future successes, whether a promotion or a great new relationship, to adherence to it. Conversely, setbacks will be even more powerfully in committing people to "The Secret," as people will attribute their failures to not living up to "The Secret" (and buying more of Byrne's books). Consistency dictates it will be less painful to buy more books and immerse one's self further into "The Secret" than to accept the whole premise is a quite ridiculous; while not as pernicious as a domineering cult, "The Secret" promises to charge you handsomely for a positive outlook on life.

Byrne's book is problematic on many levels. On it's face, it's a manipulative marketing tool meant to flatter, confuse and deceive. It's also pseudoscience at its best, the last thing we need to encourage in an increasingly technological world which requires healthy skepticism and critical thought. Most damaging, though, is how the book perverts reality by encouraging people to equate a positive outlook on life with a childish, idiotic narcissism. Ayn Rand must be rolling in her grave hearing about the modern manifestation of her objectivist movement reduced to the intellectual equivalent of canned pork.

If you're interested in "The Secret," I highly encourage you to read the book - yeah, READ the book - if for any other reason so not to be manipulated by its brilliant marketing. Read it with a critical eye, with a copy of Cialdini's book in the other hand. You may not learn the secret of happiness, but you WILL learn a lot about manipulation and influence from a master of the subject in Rhonda Byrne.

Reaches Too Far, Oversells, Underdelivers, January 1, 2007
I think a book like this, which makes some really big claims, should, roughly, do the following:

1) Present it's premise clearly
2) Since it's a self-help book explain clearly what you need to do
3) Provide compelling evidence that it's ideas work
4) Be credible.

The book does a decent job of explaining its premise, which is that everything in your life is the result of the law of attraction. I quote, "the law of attraction says like attracts like, so when you think a thought, you are also attracting like thoughts to you." In other words, think good thoughts and good things will come to you and if you think bad thoughts then bad things come to you. I've simplified this a bit but not a whole lot as the concept isn't rocket science.

Now, does this book explain clearly what you need to do? Actually, for a self-help book it does a very poor job of this. How do you control your thoughts? What kinds of practices and thinking produce the best results? The author and contributors basically tell you a bunch of stories about how "so and so did something and you can too by changing your thinking".

And that's it for the "how to" part of the book. There isn't any.

Now, if I wanted to prove something worked from a scientific perspective it would seem to be easy to test this stuff out. You take two groups of people, teach one the secret, let the other go on with their lives and see what happens. In theory those that know the Secret would be happier and more successful than the control group. It might not be perfect but it'd be a whole lot better than what we get in this book. But, of course, you'd have to have an actual methodology to test.

Instead the authors cite numerous anecdotes of how the Secret worked. One person's cancer went away. Another individual walks after a brutal accident. Still another finds romance. That's all fine and perhaps it's evidence but it's not proof. Cancer can be misdiagnosed. How many people who were injured like the "Miracle Man" never walked again despite the best attitude and trying the approach perfectly? The problem with anecdotes is that it's easy to start with a result, work backward and assume the conclusion. It's also very easy with anecdotes to only present the ones that make your case and ignore those that don't (when someone dies of cancer while practicing the secret for instance). It's just not good enough to use anecdotes for large claims like those made in this book.

The following quote struck a nerve.

"People hold that for awhile, and they're really a champion at it. They say, `I'm fired up, I saw this program and I'm going to change my life.' And yet the results aren't showing. Beneath the surface it's just about ready to break through but the person will look just at the surface results and say, `This stuff doesn't work.' And you know what? The universe says, "your wish is my command,"

I thought it was interesting that the universe instantly manifest failure but isn't quite so fast with success. In fact, a cynical individual might conclude that what they are really saying is, "when this program works it's because the secret always works, but, on the off chance it doesn't work, well, that's your fault." An even more cynical person might think, "gosh, I wonder what would help a person who failed? Maybe, a seminar with Bob Proctor would be just the thing to get them over the top?"

Lastly, is the Secret credible? On the one hand, I think a lot can be said for the idea that if you change your thinking you'd change your life. In many ways that seems obvious to me.

On the other hand, if the secret actually was true, especially at the scope claimed by the book it would mean that everything that's happened is the result of your thinking. So, when a child dies of pneumonia, well, it's because they brought pneumonia into their lives. Michael J. Fox, not only did you bring Parkinson's into your life but change your thinking and it will go away. Obviously these things aren't true and they obliterate, in my opinion, any credibility in the book.

Not only does the book go too far but most (I'd argue nearly all) of the contributors aren't credible. On a topic of this scope: the ability to 100% change your life and the world in an incredible fashion, does anyone really think you couldn't find psychologists, top flight scientists, therapists and thousands of mainstream individuals to support it, if it worked? Wouldn't there be tons of research instead of anecdotes? Instead we get a Feng Shui Master, a chiropractor, motivational speakers (err trainers), a metaphysicist, etc. combined with a half dozen anecdotal stories. So the most powerful like changing idea ever and you get it from the crew in this book presented in this fashion? I don't think so!

If this idea really worked, at anything other than giving material to self-help speakers and generating repeat students, it just wouldn't be found here. The book wouldn't even have to be written because we'd all already know it and be practicing it. Remember, this is not a new idea, it's been around for a very long time, and it's been the topic of literally thousands of seminars and hundreds of books.

In conclusion, I'm not opposed to the idea on a small scale but this book just goes way too far and I'm left with the feeling that all that's really going on is a bunch of people trying to get their name out and get you to pay for their seminars.

a best-seller; folly of the masses, June 25, 2007
This book was given to me as a gift on father's day. I started reading it the way I read any book but soon I started reading faster and faster, more like scanning, with speed-reading techniques, and finished it in 2 hours, while taking notes at the same time.

I have no interest in self-help books or concepts like power of positive thinking. This book combines the two, with the main thesis being that the "secret" to anything in life, wealth, health, success, love, romance, happiness is positive thinking, thinking positive thoughts. More specifically, imagining things that you want to have and really, truly believe that you already have them, and feel good about having them now!

For example, if you want to be rich, you should first imagine that you are already rich; second, you should really believe that you are already rich; and third you should feel yourself in a rich life style, feel happy about it. If you keep doing this for awhile, miraculously the doors of wealth will open to you, all the opportunities will line up at your door and you will be well into your way to becoming that rich person you are imagining. Similarly, if you want to loose weight, you should imagine yourself in your ideal weight, really focus on that, only allow yourself "thin thoughts" and avoid "fat thoughts", and you will get thin. I quote; "if someone is overweight, it came from thinking fat thoughts". Another one; "Food cannot cause you to put on weight, unless you think it can."

I felt like putting a smiley face right after the last sentence as I am smiling now, and was smiling throughout the book. All you have to do is just ask (oh, and believe, and feel) for the thing you want and lo and behold, thou shalt have it! I quote: "Make a command to the Universe. Let the Universe know what you want. The universe responds to your thoughts." Another one: "The Universe will start to rearrange itself to make it happen for you." Really? I didn't know the entire universe cared so much about me!

The method even works for some frivolous things. Like always finding a parking spot, never having to wait in lines, never being late etc. And a lot of people are, allegedly, already doing it: "We have received thousands of accounts of The Secret being used to bring about large sums of money and unexpected checks in the mail. People have used the secret to manifest their perfect homes, life partners, cars, jobs, and promotions, with many accounts of businesses being transformed within days of applying The Secret."

One look at the titles of the co-authors of the book says a lot: Metaphysician, moneymaking expert (ha?), healer, life coach, law of attraction specialist, feng shui consultant (sure)... How about gullibility specialist, swindling expert, or snake-oil salesman?

Actually I shouldn't be so hard. At least one person, the main author of the book made her wishes come true. In the foreword of the book, and elsewhere inside, she says that she was going through a very bad time, her company of 10 years was about to be history. In desperation she looked everywhere for answers and that's how she discovered "the secret". Judging from the success of the book and the film, it must have worked for her. I suppose she must have thought, believed, and felt something like this: "I want a large number of credulous people to buy what I am saying (and the book, and the dvd) so I can make a lot of money".

Think and Grow Rich Meets The Power of Positive Thinking in Brief Quotes, February 22, 2007
I am in complete agreement with the idea that our thoughts need to be carefully marshaled and focused on what we want. My comments focus on how Ms. Byrne has expressed that point in this book.

Everyone I know swears by the DVD version of The Secret. I decided to read the book first and then look at the DVD.

In grading this book, I am comparing The Secret to the many books that encourage you to create your own reality through mental focus including books written by those quoted in The Secret.

First, what is the secret? As stated in a quotation by Bob Proctor:

"The Secret is the law of attraction!

Everything that is coming into your life you are attracting . . . by virtue of the images you are holding in your mind."

Second, what causes the law of attraction to work? According to Ms. Byrne on page 11:

"You are the most powerful transmission tower in the Universe. Your transmission creates your life and it creates the world . . . . And you are transmitting that frequency with your thoughts."

Third, what's the evidence that this secret is true? Each of 24 authors tells anecdotes of people who overcame hurdles after envisioning a more positive result. A few claims are made that quantum physics supports this conclusion, and Ms. Byrne confides that she understands a great deal about this subject.

Fourth, why is this a secret? Because Ms. Byrne had never heard of the law of attraction prior to a year or so ago.

Let me make a few observations about the development of this idea in the book:

First, science has shown us that we ignore almost all of the sensory input we receive. Our minds focus on a small percentage of what's considered relevant through something called the reticular activating system. Change what you focus on, and you notice things for the first time that have been there all the time. That's one reason why envisioning what you want works: You notice helpful resources around you that you've been ignoring. That observation, however, has never been tied to any evidence (to my knowledge) that we physically create anything with our minds beyond our own bodies, except by manipulating the physical world in various ways.

Second, religion points to a different phenomenon. Christians, for example, read in the Bible that God has filled those who have been saved by repenting their sins and believing in Jesus with the Holy Spirit which permits good works (including miraculous works) to be done by the desire of the believer. The source isn't the believer's mind, but rather God's spiritual resources which are greater than the physical world. Anyone who read these Biblical texts would say that an individual is far from a powerful source of creating reality: An individual can do nothing to change reality without God, but can do anything good with God's help to change reality.

Third, in Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill reported the results of many years of intensive interviews with the most successful people on Earth of his day. Many of them believed that their thoughts physically changed the exterior world by opening the door to possibilities that otherwise wouldn't have existed. But Mr. Hill presented the idea as expressed opinions, rather than as a proven fact. He also pointed to many other things that these people had done that helped them succeed. Mr. Hill reported that it takes more just focusing on what you want: There are other steps involved such as working with a mastermind group.

Fourth, our own bodies are very strongly affected by our thoughts. Scientific research keeps showing new dimensions of that fact. Think certain thoughts and your immune system is stronger. Think other thoughts and your immune system is weaker. In addition, placebos do heal people who think they are getting real medicine when they are not. Why? Because people are really healing themselves. You can extend that influence by behaving well or badly towards others, causing a mental reaction in them, which in turn creates a change in their body chemistries.

By comparing those earlier works, my sense is that what The Secret really represents is one woman's quick attempt to make sense of this kind of information. In doing so, she seems to have oversimplified and misstated what is known about the role of thought in creating life experiences. I doubt if the intent was deliberate or not well intentioned. But after all, she is a film maker, not a student of thought.

By ignoring the full range and roots of the evidence, Ms. Byrne runs the risk of discouraging some people who feel like they are real losers because they cannot evince a perfectly positive reality. If it were as simple as The Secret suggests, we would have billions of people living trouble-free lives. To my knowledge, even the most successful practitioners of The Secret aren't as wealthy as those the most successful people who don't. That would make an interesting study, and a far more valuable book than this one.

Here's an example of a misleading example. Ms. Byrne argues that food doesn't make you fat; it's what you think about food that makes you fat. The punch line of her story is that "I now maintain my perfect weight of 116 pounds and I can eat whatever I want." Every person I have met who is an authority cited in this book is noticeably overweight. Why don't any of them want a perfect weight and be able eat anything they want?

My point for you: Avoid this book.

I encourage you, however, to think positively and learn about how your thoughts can improve your life!

If you want to learn about how to improve your life through your thoughts, consider reading more reliably based and carefully presented sources. If you prefer a secular book, try Think and Grow Rich or The Success Principles. If you would like a book that half-way between a religious and secular focus, try Your Best Life Now. If you want to draw totally on the Christian or Jewish religious roots, read the Bible.

I'll look at the DVD now and let you know what I think of that.

A book for losers, January 10, 2009
1. Bogus metaphysics, bogus science:

The Secret pretends it's a book about winners and how they win. It isn't. That's just the come-on. It's actually a happy make-believe feelgood book for losers.

Positive thinking is a powerful force, but it isn't magic. It's more like a necessary precondition to success: people who believe they can succeed are far more likely to succeed than people who are sure they'll fail.

For instance, say they're starting a new business, and they run into some big problem. The person who thinks in terms of success will say "Gosh, I'm going to have to figure out a way to get around this problem if I'm going to be successful." Then they get to work on figuring it out. The person who thinks in terms of failure will say, "I knew it was only a matter of time before the universe screwed me over -- I can never catch a break," and gives up trying.

Very important point: in both cases, positive or negative thinking didn't affect the universe. What it did was affect the way the people made decisions and addressed their problems in the real world.

That's the difference between a genuinely useful and valuable book like Norman Vincent Peale's The Power of Positive Thinking, and the pile of steaming tripe that is The Secret. Peale's book tells you that positive thinking is the best starting point for getting what you want. The Secret says that positive thinking is enough all by itself. It dresses its idea up in bogus pseudo-scientific language, but essentially what it's saying is that positive thinking is magic.

That's premium-grade hogwash. Positive thinking isn't magic. Thoughts are not magnets. There is no Law of Attraction, no primal universal force that makes the events in our lives match the way we think about our lives. Positive thinking is a good mindset for making good decisions about the actions we take, but it's the actions that have the effect, not the thoughts.

That's why The Secret is a feelgood book for losers.

===

2. Some real-world implications:

If Rhonda Byrne's advice were any good, neither she nor her publisher would have to publicize her book. They'd just think the right thoughts, and readers everywhere would automatically be moved to pick up a copy.

People cycling through the manic phase of manic-depressive bipolar disorder would be such a nexus of inventiveness, serendipitous insight, and luck, that major corporations would bid on their services.

No baseball game could ever end as long as the fans on both sides believed victory was possible.

We'd never run out of petroleum.

Average global income would be far more evenly distributed than it is. After all, anyone can hope. Anyone anywhere can think good thoughts.

Alternately, there could be Third World sweatshops available to do our believing for us.

Finally, if Rhonda Byrne's advice were any good, the Evil Overlord list wouldn't include the observation that an Evil Overlord who shouts "I AM INVINCIBLE!" is a sure bet to die almost immediately afterward.

===

3. Fraudulent provenance:

If thinking the right thoughts really could do what The Secret claims, that fact could never stay a secret. Everyone has people they love; and because they love them, they want them to be happy and successful. If they learned an infallible secret for attaining power, wealth, and success, they'd pass it on to those they loved so that they could be happy too. Those people would tell others, and so the knowledge would spread. Soon it wouldn't be a secret any more. After that, people would start preaching it from the rooftops, and carving it into the sides of buildings.

Let's limit it to children. Can you imagine withholding such a secret from your own children? Could you keep silent while you watched them lead frustrated and impoverished lives, or died from conditions you knew how to cure? That's not believable.

Now, genealogists will tell you as a rule of thumb that everyone with European ancestry is descended from Charlemagne, who lived from 742 to 814 AD. That is: if Charlemagne knew this secret knowledge, and he only told his children about it, and they only told their children, and so forth and so on, by now half the world would know it. Yet author Rhonda Byrne says the Greek Philosophers and the Ancient Egyptians had this knowledge. The Greek Philosophers lived about 1,100 years earlier than Charlemagne, and the Ancient Egyptians lived more than three thousand years earlier. It's ridiculous to imagine that a simple, basic, easy-to-apply, and yet overwhelmingly powerful universal principle could stay a secret for even a fraction of that time.

===

4. Further real-world implications:

If what Rhonda Byrne says in The Secret were true, Las Vegas wouldn't exist. People don't place bets they think are going to lose. Gamblers are powerfully into positive thinking. Someone who's betting heavily while drawing to an inside straight is unquestionably visualizing success, and they're telling the universe exactly what form they want it to take. They nevertheless fail to fill their straights at exactly the rate predicted by plain old statistical probability -- that is, most of the time.

Positive thinking is all around us. New restaurants, new breakfast cereals, new television shows, and new political candidacies expect success. No one throws their heart into studying ballet from age six onward because they envision themselves having the wrong adult body type and winding up teaching tap and jazz to children in some dull but affluent suburb. The world is full of unemployed theatre majors, unpublished writers, unsuccessful beauty pageant contestants, unheard-of musical acts, and college athletes who never make the big time. None of them got there by thinking they wouldn't succeed.

If Rhonda Byrne's advice were any good, no singer would ever hit a wrong note. That goes double for singers who are drunk.

I know other reviewers have already covered the implications of The Secret's suggestion that misfortunes are caused by our own negative thoughts. Still, I have to say: NO KIDDING? SOMEBODY PHONE DARFUR NOW!

And while we're waiting for that phone connection: no kidding? Insanely bad high-level decisionmaking, failures of oversight, and a grossly irresponsible pursuit of deregulation for its own sake had nothing to do with our lives getting zapped by a collapsing economy? Look at Enron's employees and stockholders. They didn't expect to get screwed. New Orleans residents who didn't have cars never envisioned themselves drowning in their own attics. Homeowners with subprime mortgages never imagined they'd wind up in foreclosure.

Are we to understand that some families have an inexplicable tendency to attract the same ailment, generation after generation? How is it possible for devout Christian Scientists to die of cancer or eclampsia or ketoacidosis? If a guy in his late 50s has been in denial about his radiating chest pains for the last ten or twelve hours, and the first thing he says when the EMTs come through his door is "I'm not having a heart attack," has his attitude improved or decreased his chances of surviving the episode?

If I worry about drunk drivers, and then some night I get t-boned at 60 mph by an irresponsible lush with a DUI record as long as my arm, is the accident actually my fault because I had all those negative worries? If I've got a cheerful toddler with me, who's responsible for her death? If I kneecap Rhonda Byrne, and set fire to the warehouse where her books are waiting to ship, will she apologize to me for thinking thoughts that obliged me to do it?

===

5. In conclusion:

I swear, I've never had any thoughts that warranted the existence of this book.

Think for a minute with me before you buy, March 14, 2007
Let's say something first: if it makes you feel better, you can even believe in Santa Claus, and there's no problem with that.
So, if you want to believe what Rhonda says, it's up to you.
For me, there are too many lies in this book.
They are appealing, because we all search for an easy way out. They sounds beautiful, like birds in the sky. But they remain lies.
They are also immoral: I think one of the best teaching in christianity is compassion. Compassion means to feel the suffering of another, to understand him deeply. It's the feeling we all feel when we see a baby cry for apparently no reason, so cute and so defenseless.
We feel his pain, we think we have to help.
But if you believe that feeling (mental) pain attracts to you disgrace, how can you embrace compassion?
Also, why help others if when they are in struggle it's all their fault? Why try to help them if you believe that their minds are responsable for that?
When we think of World War II, and Nazism, are we going to say that all the Jews were vibrating in a bad mood? I don't think it's a good answer to the evil that men do (and what about 9/11, or Katrina?).
Were all the people in the '60 anti-war movement creating more war? Vietnam was caused by John Lennon? Don't be a fool.
The poet says: the good sailor moves the sails, for he knows he can't control the wind.

I take this very personal. When I was just a kid, a friend of mine died. He was the happiest child in the world, we were shocked and thought about death for a long long time. He didn't attract his bad destiny, and we didn't attract anything, except tears.
Leave this book alone.

P.S.
There's no need to say that the quotations of great men in the past are largely distorted. Take Bhudda: he spoke all the time against desire of material things, and he thought a lot about illness, aging and death. It's easy to take a quotation out of context and gain noble fathers for a poor idea.
Peace.

Unscientific Blather, April 5, 2007
The Latin phrase, Ad Ignoratium, is apt: the statements made in this book are true only to the degree of the reader's ignorance.

Hmmm, I can win the lottery just by thinking positively about it? What if everybody around me has the same thoughts? Can we all win? If I want a college degree, can I get one just by thinking really hard or do I have to actually attend classes? I have cancer; can I will it away by envisioning smiling faces? Or should I get chemo first?

The bulk of the book employs pseudo "experts" to elevate the very real power of positive thinking to the status of a wishing well. As most of us learned as children, wishing alone rarely makes things happen. Action makes things happen, and tragically little about action is talked about in this book.

Lots of people report great things coming to them after practicing the "Secret." But it's unlikely that anyone will report how often it doesn't work. Like psychic predictions, we breathlessly report the "hits" and ignore the misses.

I'm a believer in positive thinking, but not magical thinking. There is a difference. Keep that in mind when you read this nonsense.

nothing new, April 3, 2007
There is a lot of talk about the "Secret" but I really did not think it was "new" material. I find it rather interesting that with all the brilliant healers and scientists on this planet, that the people included in this work are only from the U.S..
I certainly do not agree that little children or unfortunate people that live in war torn areas "draw" this to them. Sounds more like a marketing tool than a message of peace. Where is the compassion for others less fortunate than us?

A Word to the Wise..., March 19, 2007
I am commenting on The Secret as a clinical psychologist who specializes in how cultural and spiritual beliefs affect health as well as the author of a book about converging science and mysticism to navigate our personal journey. First, The Secret is a compilation of opinions from a group of professionals in several fields, rather than a book by the author. It would be more accurate for Ms. Byrne to present herself as the editor, rather than the author of the book. Having said that, it is important to distinguish between wishful thinking and mind-body science. Although the concepts expounded in the book are beautiful examples of what we could achieve if we explored our potential, it leaves the reader with "feel-good" platitudes, by failing to convey that simply wishing something does not attract anything other than expectations that lead to disappointment. As a scientist, I have seen the mind bypass biology in miraculous ways, but this does not happen by just wishing and waiting for "the laws of attraction" to work. Instead, change requires honoring commitments, not blaming others for our failures, assessing the self-sabotaging that surface when self-esteem is compromised, and realistically defining goals.
The success of this book shows how hungry we are for someone to tell us that change happens magically without having to confront our demons and without taking responsibility for the life we created with our actions.
While I wish Ms. Byrne the greatest success, I want to caution the reader that if "wishful thinking" does not attract what you want, do not blame yourself, because it was only thoughts without action.

I wanted to like this book., April 8, 2007
Recently I was at the airport and overheard snippets of a conversation taking place nearby. A gentleman was telling a fellow traveler about "The Secret". Intrigued, I got the book and just finished reading it.

First I should say I really wanted to like this book. It's a delicious idea....to think that the happier, shinier, more successful people of this world have access to a certain "secret" that causes them to attract good things. Unfortunately, as much as I hoped this book would blow me away, it didn't.

I found it difficult to stay awake while reading the first four chapters. The same basic themes ("Your thoughts become things" and "The Great Secret of Life is the law of attraction") were repeated over and over again. Mixed with the boredom was a sense of surprise that the book was so focused on material things. A chapter called "The Secret to Money" came before chapters on Relationships, Health, "the World", You and Life, which definitely made me go "Hmmmm."

"The Secret" starts with a great idea, but develops a credibility problem when it uses All Or Nothing and Overly Simplistic language. For example:

(a) "Nothing can come into your experience unless you summon it through persistent thoughts." This would seem to suggest that everyone working in the World Trade Center on 9/11/01 somehow INVITED the terror attack through their own persistent thoughts (which is, of course, pure hogwash.) Or terminally ill cancer patients fighting for their lives... SUMMONED the disease.

(b) "You have two sets of feelings: good feelings and bad feelings. And you know the difference between the two because one makes you feel good, and the other makes you feel bad." This seems to wipe out several dimensions of human emotional experience. What about ambivalence? ("I'm happy about the job offer in LA but, gosh, I'll really miss my family and friends in Boston.") Are we wiping out the concept of bittersweet? Isn't it a balance of a range of emotions that makes us human?

It is fine to say that, within reason, what you take the time to visualize for yourself in glorious detail is more likely to manifest itself in your life, or even that you can accomplish things you never thought possible by first seeing yourself doing, feeling, and thinking like you have already accomplished them (and, of course, following up with massive action to get you where you want to go.) I also realize that repetition and simple phrasing can be useful tools for teaching new concepts; however the scope of "The Secret" is too broad to use these techniques. (We're trying to learn a new blueprint for life here, not how to care for a potted plant.)

"The Secret" takes a valid concept to extremes. The unrealistic wording is unnecessary and raised red flags that were distracting and interfered with my ability to remain open to the overall excellent and useful message of the book. If you seek to learn more about the fascinating power of positive thought and creative visualization but do not wish to be brainwashed with extreme claims, then this book is probably not up your alley either.
... Read more

Editorial Review

Encyclopedia of the Exquisite is a lifestyle guide for the Francophile and the Anglomaniac, the gourmet and the style maven, the armchair traveler and the art lover. It’s an homage to the esoteric world of glamour that doesn’t require much spending but makes us feel rich.

Taking a cue from the exotic encyclopedias of the sixteenth century, which brimmed with mysterious artifacts, Jessica Kerwin Jenkins’s Encyclopedia of the Exquisite focuses on the elegant, the rare, the commonplace, and the delightful. A com­pendium of style, it merges whimsy and practicality, traipsing through the fine arts and the worlds of fashion, food, travel, home, garden, and beauty.

Each entry features several engaging anecdotes, illuminating the curious past of each enduring source of beauty. Subjects covered include the explosive history of champagne; the art of lounging on a divan; the emergence of “frillies,” the first lacy, racy lingerie; the ancient uses of sweet-smelling saffron; the wild riot incited by the appearance of London’s first top hat; Julia Child’s tip for cooking the perfect omelet; the polarizing practice of wearing red lipstick during World War II; Louis XIV’s fondness for the luscious Bartlett pear; the Indian origin of badminton; Parliament’s 1650 attempt to suppress Europe’s beauty mark fad; the evolution of the Japanese kimono; the pil­grimage of Central Park’s Egyptian obelisk; and the fanciful thrill of dining alfresco.

Cleverly illustrated, Encyclopedia of the Exquisite is an ode to life’s plenty, from the extravagant to the eccentric. It is a cele­bration of luxury that doesn’t necessarily require money. ... Read more

Reviews

Lives up to it's name, November 12, 2010
Encyclopedia of the Exquisite is a fantastically delightful read. It was clear when I read the introduction that the author and I are kindred spirits. This book engages the little girl in me who thought the glass doorknobs on our old house were made of diamonds and clearly had magical powers. Each entry is it's own adventure, like a peephole into a bygone era. The author writes clearly and beautifully, making each bit come to life on the page and the illustrations are gorgeous!
I'm having to force myself to read only a little at a time to make it last longer, like I'd do with a fancy bar of chocolate. I'm already wondering if she'll consider a second volume, as I am now noticing exquisite things all around me that I'd love to know the story of. I know I'll be giving copies to friends for years to come, beginning with this Christmas!

earthly delights, December 6, 2010
From Nectar and Ambrosia to Sequins, from Omelets to Frilly Lingerie, Jessica Kerwin Jenkins has compiled a handbook of pleasures, a guide to refinements, both exotic and humble. Readable and whimsical, it's a book to savor, like a big box of chocolate Truffles, which sublime fungus, of course, merits an entry--and a recipe. This is not a frivolous compendium; Jenkins has done serious research, so readers learn the Venetian origins of the Umbrella, and how it was used by Thai acrobats in performance. She also understands that the exquisite is not limited to the material world, and there are entries on Twilight, Wanderers, Far Niente, and the elusive Quintessence. There is an extensive bibliography, too, for those whose curiosity has been inflamed. And as an object, the book itself is exquisite, with deckle-edged pages, and a binding stamped with gold.

a total delight, December 11, 2010
A delicious book. Kerwin-Jenkins has done meticulous research to bring us bits of way-off-the-wall history. Each entry is more fascinating than the preceding one. Did you know about the Elephantine Colossus at Coney Island, one of three huge buildings shaped like the animal that were all the rage at the turn of the century. A big blue one at the Paris World's Fair in 1899. Only one remains, the 65-foot Lucy at the Jersey Shore. And that is just the "E's!
This is a jewel of a book to be savored very slowly.

awesome writer!!, December 2, 2010
Each entry not only enlightening, but exquisitely written. This book is like a sequence of prose poems inspired by Joseph Cornell. I hope it's only the first of many volumes!

deightful book, November 12, 2010
So engaging and well written is the Encyclopedia of the Exquisite. the illustrations are beautiful as is the general design of the book. it has been a surprisingly fun and educational read. can't wait to give it as a gift...
( make sure to read the introduction!)

Get a copy for every room!, November 15, 2010
The title says it all - wonderful vignettes about well known as well as obscure treasures. I want a copy for every room of the house - I am delighted every time I pick it up.

A wonderful find!, November 10, 2010
This is one of those great treasuries that you and your friends can revisit time and time again. Entertaining, amusing, and extremely interesting, this timeless catalog of the extraordinary makes a great holiday/birthday/housewarming gift. More sophisticated than your average "coffee table" book but not so high-brow that it can't be enjoyed by one and all. Each entry is a gem and the book surpasses the sum of the parts. I stumbled onto this and I'm glad I did!

I'm buying more to give as gifts this year, November 7, 2010
I absolutely do not regret this purchase. Encyclopedia of the Exquisite is exquisite itself. It's a beautiful book filled with charming illustrations, anecdotes and facts about historical figures and phenomena of all kinds. Kerwin is an excellent writer who has clearly done serious research with an impressively wide reach, but she delivers is with wit and levity. Every entry is a short, concise piece so I have been picking it up and putting it down for days, skipping all around the book. I wish I had one in every room in the house. And it really is a beautiful book in itself. I am definitely buying a copy of this for everyone I know for Christmas. It's perfect.

Oops!, December 2, 2010
I was interested in the book and clicked on the illustrated champange entry shown above. The very first sentence had a typo! These kinds of things are becoming routine and hardly elegant.

Lack of Creativity in subjects - nothing new to report, November 22, 2010
While the book was well researched and I learned a few new things, I found the book extremely dull and boring. For example, the color black along with crickets, are labeled as "elegant delights." I like crickets and the color black is elegant but they are both predictable and nothing enlightening. I really wanted to like this book but in the end was bored and would not recommend it. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Erich von Daniken's Chariots of the Gods is a work of monumental importance--the first book to introduce the shocking theory that ancient Earth had been visited by aliens.This world-famous bestseller has withstood the test of time, inspiring countless books and films, including the author's own popular sequel, The Eyes of the Sphinx. But here is where it all began--von Daniken's startling theories of our earliest encounters with alien worlds, based upon his lifelong studies of ancient ruins, lost cities, potential spaceports, and a myriad of hard scientific facts that point to extraterrestrial intervention in human history. Most incredible of all, however, is von Daniken's theory that we ourselves are the descendants of these galactic pioneers--and the archeological discoveries that prove it...* An alien astronaut preserved in a pyramid
* Thousand-year-old spaceflight navigation charts
* Computer astronomy from Incan and Egyptian ruins
* A map of the land beneath the ice cap of Antarctica
* A giant spaceport discovered in the Andes
Includes remarkable photos that document mankind's first contact with aliens at the dawn of civilization.
... Read more

Reviews

Entertaining, yet he jumps to conclusions too easily, July 24, 2002
I read Chariots of the Gods as well as several other Von Daniken works, and he never ceases to entertain me (with the exception of Miracles of the Gods - a horrid, poorly executed book). I find his "theories" thought-provoking, yet very weak at their base. Mr. Von Daniken has an irritating habit of jumping from subject to subject, stating his opinions quickly and with little supporting evidence, and then suddenly switching to another "mystery" to start the cycle over again. Even though he makes many compelling points, he never stays on the same subject long enough to fully support his beliefs.

If a golden amulet looks like a modern airplane, then it's an airplane. Period. If a stone carving looks like an astronaut, then it's an astronaut. Period. If a straight line drawn in the sand extends for the length of a modern runway, then it's a runway. Period. And this same style has gone on and on for years and through several books, with more on the way.

I take everything he says with a grain of salt. He is sooo quick to jump to (seemingly) reasonable conclusions that I can't help but be intrigued... but obviously I can't even call that he does "theorizing" since he never spends enough time on one piece of evidence to complete his arguments.

I look at his work as a starting point, rather than a finished product. If someone takes one of his ideas and runs with it, gathering collaborating evidence and building a more air-tight case for the "solution" presented in his works, then in my opinion Von Daniken has done his job. Unfortunately, I can't be sure Von Daniken shares this opinion. I think he raises important questions, yet his answers are too quick off the mark and ultimately unsatisfying to the discriminating reader.

I much prefer the approach taken by Graham Hancock, for example, who normally stays much more conservative. Hancock presents compelling arguments supported by many different pieces of evidence, and will not insult the reader by leaping to his conclusions based upon a single painting or pottery shard. Anyone interested in "alternative" (for lack of a better word) history would do well to pick up Hancock's "Fingerprints of the Gods" for a better-realized examination of ancient mysteries.

I still find Von Daniken immensely entertaining, though. Call it a guilty pleasure. I would never be able to defend his ideas during an in-depth discussion of them, and I honestly don't believe Von Daniken would be able to either. I give this book 5 stars for being a lot of FUN and a closet masterpiece.

An Interesting Read, April 20, 2009
I really enjoyed reading this book. So far it's one of my favorites. The author does not expect the reader to believe all his theories, he just wants people to open their minds a little and question things more. I don't really believe all his theories, but they are very fascinating. If you are a close-minded person then this book isn't for you.

There Can be LOTS of Other Explanations!, August 17, 2000
This is a worthwhile book to read. The author did some pretty good collecting, and his theories are tantalizing, to say the least. It is a shame that he had to repeatedly ruin some good information with the single phrase "There can be no other explanation."

He repeated this phrase throughout the book. Each time I saw it, I cringed. This phrase tries to cut off debate, stifles analysis, and generally hurts the credibility of the entire work.

When people are so convinced of their own position that they try to suppress any information to the contrary (even rhetorically), they are degenerating to the level of the "Thought Police" - or worse.

Sorry Herr von Daniken, you blew it.

A Real Gem and Fun to Watch!, April 11, 2007
A film that makes you go 'Hmmmm'.

I first saw Chariots of the Gods in a theater as a kid when it was re-released back in the mid Seventies. I remember having trouble going to sleep that night! Since then I have attained a degree in science, and still think that it has much merit.

Sadly, this is a film that few people seem to be able to see anymore, at least I haven't noticed it making the rounds on mainstream television or cable in the last twenty five years or so.

The transfer was excellent and made from a well-preserved print. I noticed few flaws in this thirty-five or so year old film. There is an extra of pictures, but there are only like eight pictures? Why bother? That part was like a carnival sideshow ripoff. Also, the bio on von Daniken is a short text of one page and was not informative at all. There are scene selections and true to their word a movie trailer.

The film is an interesting whirlwind of exotic location shots that if nothing else shows the viewer some very interesting sites. The musical score is hard to describe-in a sense it is eerie, but it also has an overall upbeat, 'hopeful' or optimistic tone. I get the impression that this film was not made originally in English? I do like the narrator's (male) voice and keeps your attention. There are also a few places where the narration is handled in an interesting manner. Also, the actual filming and editing was excellent and well thought out. It's as if there is a new surprise awaiting you around every corner.

The documentary also includes some support from a couple of other individuals, one of whom was a Soviet scientist and I found this to be rather interesting given the times. But I feel that von Daniken's arguments supported by the visual evidence were more than compelling on their own.

I can't help but to compare this film to a Nova episode that dealt specifically with von Daniken's book and thus many of the things in this film. A few things, at least in the book, were shown to be out and out fabrications. I seem to remember Nova trying to provide an alternative explanation for such things as (don't quote me...been many years) the 'Baghdad Batteries'. Since then I have seen these batteries presented as being exactly as what they appear to be by science-ancient batteries.

In fact, it seemed that the makers of the Nova film were in an Okham's Razor competition with von Daniken in trying to provide rational, simple explanations for rather exceptional ancient works of art, stories and artifacts. I think it was mostly a tie. 'We' still don't know how or why the Pyramids, nor Stonehenge, the Nazca Lines nor many many other things were built in ancient times. Shame on von Daniken for not giving our ancient ancestors very much credit for coming up with these technologies themselves, but the same can be said for mainstream science which seems to be more and more in the position that ancient peoples were more advanced than we thought and much earlier in time than previously thought.

However, traces of nicotine in Egyptian mummies and a bronze (brass?) computer from an ancient shipwreck does not jive with what mainstream social and natural scientists traditionally present as 'fact' (dangerous word there at any rate). My point is that mainstream science has had to (as science is supposed to) back down and rewrite its theories as new data and explanations come to light. So mainstream science does not have an absolute corner on the truth market and what was poo-pooed in the past as nonsense and fantasy has many times gained acceptance (the existence of ball lightning comes to mind).

It would have made a very interesting DVD package if they had included the Nova episode for a few bucks more as this episode is largely forgotten and is collecting dust somewhere.

von Daniken did not say that every single headdress or ceremonial garb were based on ancient astronaut space suits, but what he does present are artworks of things that still look like space suits and advanced controls no matter how much these things are relegated to the mystical fantasies of ancient artists by mainstream scientists. Interestingly, it is only in the context of modern technology and science as he points out that many of von Daniken's suppositions even begin to make sense! For instance, why does an ancient Mayan observatory look like a modern observatory? What is the purpose of that if they indeed had no telescopes?

All in all, I think von Daniken's explanations are at least as good as any offered by conservative science. A powerful, imaginative presentation that actually enriches one's view of our ancient ancestors and does not denigrate their capabilities at all. These hypotheses actually add a new dimension of wonder and excitement to our collective past.

I definitely plan to watch this over and over again. It is a superior documentary in that it is not inundated with talking head PhD s or self-styled experts and allows the viewer's mind/imagination to decide the validity of what he is seeing with only suggestions on the part of the writer.

It is refreshing to see a film that still makes you go 'hmmmm' even after all these years.

Fun, but horribly wrong, April 20, 2001
Von D�niken claims that the myths, arts, social organizations, etc., of ancient cultures were introduced by astronauts from another world. He questions not just the capacity for memory, but the capacity for culture and civilization itself, in ancient peoples. Prehistoric humans did not develop their own arts and technologies, but rather were taught art and science by visitors from outer space.

Where is the proof for von D�niken's claims? Some of it was fraudulent. For example, he produced photographs of pottery that he claimed had been found in an archaeological dig. The pottery depicts flying saucers and was said to have been dated from Biblical times. However, investigators from Nova (the fine public-television science program) found the potter who had made the allegedly ancient pots. They confronted von D�niken with evidence of his fraud. His reply was that his deception was justified because some people would only believe if they saw proof ("The Case of the Ancient Astronauts," first aired 3/8/78, done in conjunction with BBC's Horizon and Peter Spry-Leverton)!

However, most of von D�niken's evidence is in the form of specious and fallacious arguments. His data consists mainly of archaeological sites and ancient myths. He begins with the ancient astronaut assumption and then forces all data to fit the idea. For example, in Nazca, Peru, he explains giant animal drawings in the desert as an ancient alien airport. The fact that the lines of the drawing would be useless as a runway for any real aircraft because of their narrowness is conveniently ignored by von D�niken. The likelihood that these drawings related to the natives' science or mythology is not considered. He also frequently reverts to false dilemma reasoning of the following type: "Either this data is to be explained by assuming these primitive idiots did this themselves or we must accept the more plausible notion that they got help from extremely advanced peoples who must have come from other planets where such technologies as anti-gravity devices had been invented." His devotion to this theory has not dwindled, despite contrary evidence, as is evidenced by still another book on the subject, Arrival of the Gods : Revealing the Alien Landing Sites at Nazca (1998).

There have been many critics of von D�niken's notions, but Ronald Story stands out as the most thorough. Most critics of von D�niken's theory point out that prehistoric peoples were not the helpless, incompetent, forgetful savages he makes them out to be. (They must have at least been intelligent enough to understand the language and teachings of their celestial instructors--no small feat!) It is true that we still do not know how the ancients accomplished some of their more astounding physical and technological feats. We still wonder how the ancient Egyptians raised giant obelisks in the desert and how stone age men and women moved huge cut stones and placed them in position in dolmens and passage graves. We are amazed by the giant carved heads on Easter Island and wonder why they were done, who did them, and why they abandoned the place. We may someday have the answers to our questions, but they are most likely to come from scientific investigation not pseudoscientific speculation. For example, observing contemporary stone age peoples in Papua New Guinea, where huge stones are still found on top of tombs, has taught us how the ancients may have accomplished the same thing with little more than ropes of organic material, wooden levers and shovels, a little ingenuity and a good deal of human strength.

We have no reason to believe our ancient ancestors' memories were so much worse than our own that they could not remember these alien visitations well enough to preserve an accurate account of them. There is little evidence to support the notion that ancient myths and religious stories are the distorted and imperfect recollection of ancient astronauts recorded by ancient priests. The evidence to the contrary--that prehistoric or 'primitive' peoples were (and are) quite intelligent and resourceful--is overwhelming.

Of course, it is possible that visitors from outer space did land on earth a few thousand years ago and communicate with our ancestors. But it seems more likely that prehistoric peoples themselves were responsible for their own art, technology and culture. Why concoct such an explanation as von D�niken's? To do so may increase the mystery and romance of one's theory, but it also makes it less reasonable, especially when one's theory seems inconsistent with what we already know about the world. The ancient astronaut hypothesis is unnecessary. Occam's razor should be applied and the hypothesis rejected.

Re-read the book and watch the video, March 1, 2009
OK first off everyone that was 12 and read the book re-read the book or rent the video.
Erich von Daniken, simply shows proof that things are two perfect back 4,000 - 10,000 years ago. The Mexico ruins present a calendar that is nearly perfect to a calendar of today, 365 1/4 per year yet they had no telescopes. He goes on to simply show that drawings around the world from 1,000's of years ago resemble people with spacesuits and ships that fly. Shows that 20,000 ton rocks where moved over 100 miles from quarries, feats which today, aren't quiet possible. Most ancient text write about an instance of crafts that fly.

He simply just goes around to world sites and shows you things that today, are still consider VERY hard to do. The pyramid which resembles 3.14 when you divide it. The drawing from over 1,000 years ago that shows what NASA would provide from an above earth shot over Egypt and Antarctica.

And the fact that in our own milky way galaxy, there are 50,000,000 stars that have the potential of supporting life similar to earth. Then when you read on the hubble telescope web site that there are HUNDREDS OF BILLIONS of galaxies, and a high estimate of around 500 BILLION galaxies, which could each contain millions of stars the chance that at least 1 other planet got an earlier start then earth is no so far fetched and more likely very probable...

So when reading his book or watching the video, he just shows you similarities around the world that are near impossiable to do today with out modern equipment and tons of money, yet alone 1,000 years ago.

In closing I thought the best part of the move was that during the world wars, the united states went to some 3rd world island in the pacfic, and built a runway for the jets, when they were finished they just left and teh villages, have since built a plane out of bamboo, and made a simlar runway and watch the sky waiting for the gods to return... just read the book with an open mind

Interesting, But Flawed, October 14, 2003
A UFO obsessed friend of mine recommended this title to me, and now having read it all the way through (twice!) I'm not really sure what all the fuss is actually about. Sure it is interesting, and yes it is a lot of fun to read this theory, however it appears that Von Daniken has thrown the idea of "proper research" out the window, and instead relied upon so the so many speculations, and falsities which seem to make up this fringe group of UFO obsessives.

Do I believe in extraterrestrial life? Absolutely. Do I believe they have made contact with the human race throughout history? Possibly. Do I believe that anything in this book is true? No.

What Von Daniken is trying to do with 'Chariots of the Gods?' is to make the claim that humanity, within all it's diversity, and intelligence is little more than a product of alien intelligence (what's that say for us?); that all of the great civilizations which have existed through time (the Maya, the Egyptian, the Sumerian, etc.) were all involved in some kind of "alien worship"; and that all of the beautiful relics of the past (the statues at Easter Island, the lid of Paleque, the Pyramids, etc.) were little more than "landing instruments" for these extraterrestrial "gods".

Not to be taken seriously, but would make an excellent storyline to an number of sci-fi films out there today.

A Review on the DVD release..., April 6, 2001
Hi Ho from Melbourne (Aust)...Just a short note, I decided to buy this program on DVD mainly because of the Sound Track since I couldn't find it on CD. Well what can I say, the picture quality is acceptable but "boy oh boy" what happened to the sound!, the naration is ok, but I like to pay attention to the sound track in most films but the music in this DVD release was terrible to say the least, the Wow and Flutter is so horrible that my 15 year old video recording off TV is awhole lot better!! If any more copys are to be made, please replace your master copy. And one other thing, if you want to be enlightend by Science and facts then do yourselves a favour and get Carl Sagan's "COSMOS" you wont be sorry....Clint (VK3CSJ)

Biscuit Barrel, November 26, 2004
This is a great classic documentary. Regardless of what you may think about the origins of the pyramids and monoliths, there are undeniably here, and the origins of these mysterious wonders of the world, and how they were built and transported great distances, since the weight of the stones were astronomical, are as of yet largely unexplained and mysterious. The scenery of the film is fantastic and thought provoking. I would have given it a five star rating if the music/sound track were a bit better. The movie gets far more interesting after the first ten minutes and there are amazing shots of areas such as Easter Island. I would recommend this movie to anyone who would enjoy seeing many wonders of the world in many areas. I am glad that I purchased this DVD and did enjoy watching it. Have a pleasant day, everyone.

Great Fun, June 30, 2003
This is one of the funniest "Science" books ever published. The rankor in against "scientists" is only matched by the author's incredible ignorance about Archeology. But what I found amazing was reading all the reviews by so many people who cry out about the virtues about having an "open" mind but who don't seem to know the first thing about any of what Von Daniken writes about. Well what about reading the copius work done about say Twianku in Bolivia, or Tula in Mexico or Cuzco in Peru?

When I was twelve I read "Chariots of the Gods" and was a believer for about a year. Then I read a few basic texts about the Maya, Incas, etc., and discovered that Von Daniken was in error so much that well it's a joke.

For example the traditional Andean accounts attribute the colossal stone construction at Cuzco and elsewhere in Peru to the Inca Emperors. And such monumental construction was continueing when the spanish came.

As for the Maya Von Daniken's explaination for the Mayan collapse has been exploded and so has his explaination for the Sarchophagus lid from the Temple of the Inscriptions at Palenque, which we know know from being able to read the Mayan Hieroglyphs depicts thee Mayan King Pacal falling into the maw of death down the cosmic tree. Von Daniken's comment about a inscription about a hot wind describing the death of the man in the Sarcophagus is total invention.

Then his book is peppered with absurd comments like stating that a jade necklace found in a Mayan tomb is fantastic because we all know jade only comes from China!. Well thats not true as even the smallist amount of research would indicate.

As for Von Daniken's research by going to various sites; well if you go and are unwilling to listen to what the researchers who have devoted their time to unraveling these sites you will of course view them as "mysterious".

Von Daniken is a very funny joke and even funnier are those who don't see the joke. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Author and international speaker Mike Dooley illuminates exactly how to move beyond the law of attraction to the next level—manifestation. In his most powerful and comprehensive work to date, Dooley reveals his master guide for following your heart and taking action on your dreams. Manifesting Change explains the actual mechanics behind every dream, how you fit into the equation of “Reality Creation,” and which steps you can take that will lead you to the desired end results without worrying about the details. Dooley expands upon the universal mysteries of why you are here, who you really are, and all that you deserve. It includes easy-to-understand exercises, stories, and analogies, and reveals the extraordinarily unique concept, the “Matrix” that clearly shows the flow of events that will, or will not, automatically trigger changes in your life based upon your thoughts, words, and actions. ... Read more

Reviews

Manifesting Change: It Couldn't Be Easier, November 15, 2010
This latest book by "Infinite Possibilities" author and "Notes From The Universe" writer Mike Dooley is an eye-opener, and answered a few questions that I have not been able to answer myself over the last few years when working on the Law Of Attraction and "Thoughts Become Things" paradigm. Specifically, I have been stumped on exactly how to define and build the life of my dreams, and finding and following my "life purpose." Mr. Dooley took all the pressure off me by simply stating that "manifesting change could not possibly be any easier than defining what you want in terms of its end result, and then simply and physically moving in its general direction." Dooley goes on to explain that we get caught up in specifics--the "cursed hows"--and that by becoming more general (focusing on "happiness" or "joy" or "abundance") and moving in that general direction ("turning over stones" and being available), we then allow The Universe/God/Divine to take care of the "hows" and thereby end up at our requested destination.

Does it work? Dooley cites numerous examples, including many of his own experiences. I am convinced, and am working the plan. I guess I could best sum the theory up for non-believers by quoting a wise sage: "When you pray, move your feet."

Good...but you can go even deeper, December 6, 2010
Over the past 25 years, I've chased just about every self-improvement idea there is. While I think the affirmations and visualization that Mike Dooley teaches can help, I know there are millions of people who've faithfully practiced these techniques and found that they did not provide the full answer. The reason is that no matter how much people practice visualization and affirmations, negative programs in the subconscious still hold them back from realizing their dreams. If you've ever experienced crushing disappointments and setbacks even if you've followed the positive thinking routine, you know what I'm talking about.

Here's where I stopped chasing:

What really split the atom for me was learning about techniques that allow you to rid your mind of limiting beliefs rather than trying to shout them down. These modalities include Sedona, Release Technique, and Holoponopono. I'd also highly recommend reading The Power of Now and then learn to put it into practice by reading Beyond Happiness by Frank Kinslow.

Updated: 12/9/2010

I remember many years ago reading books by Robert Anthony, Denis Waitley, Tony Robbins, Norman Vincent Peale, Earl Nightingale, Brian Tracy and scores of others. I also read New Thought books from around the turn of the century by folks like Ernest Holmes, Ralph Waldo Trine, and William Wattles. Looking back at everything I've read in the Law of Attraction genre (which I think Manifesting Change falls into) nothing impacted me as much as "The Master Key System" by Charles Haanel. Do a Google search and you'll be able to download this MASTERPIECE for free as it is in the public domain. That, as well as Mike's book will give you a good foundation. Then...to get to the next level explore some of my other recommendations.

Inspirational & True: You Can Manifest Change, November 19, 2010
The best advice that you can take away from this inspirational book is to learn to focus on the end results. Dooley reminds us that we should focus on what we truly want instead of worrying about how to get those things. Specifically, he refers to these obstacles in your mind as "cursed hows" and encourages people to forget about those obstacles and focus primarily the "end result".

This book talks about god and the universe in a non-religous sense. Instead, Dooley describes god as the essence of everything, living and non-living. He focuses on the point that we should allow the universe, or god, or whatever divine force you choose to believe in, to eliminate those "cursed hows" and help you manifest change in your own life. Of course, he doesn't mean that you will not have to do anything at all, but you will be able to achieve your goals with less worrying about details. Whatever it is that you truly want, the universe will help you if you have faith and are focused on what you hope to achieve.

This is a simple concept that it put together in a straight-forward, easy to read book. While reading, you may realize how this concept has already been applied to your own life and how it truly works.

An Interesting Perspective on the Law of Attraction, November 23, 2010
You may be wondering, "Who is Mike Dooley and why should I listen to him?" Mike Dooley is a prominent
teacher from the wildly successful book and DVD "The Secret". You may remember him from his trademark
phrase, "Thoughts become things".

In "Manifesting Change: It Couldn't Be Easier", he discusses taking the law of attraction to the next
level and reveals some his best material which he uses as the basis for his speaking programs.

Dooley compares our lives to traveling with a GPS. He tells us that the only thing one needs to put into
a GPS is the destination. The GPS, like the Universe, then does the work of plotting the best route to
our destination, and we can get there if we follow step two - taking action. To consciously manifest
anything, we need to decide where we want to go (i.e. what we want in our lives), and the Universe will
provide the guidance to get us there.

According to Dooley, most people try to create their life backward. The key to the process of manifestation
is to begin with the end in mind. The Universe works backwards from the end result. Having the end in mind
effects the circumstances of your life so that you will be introduced to the right people at the right time
and the right activities that yield the manifestation you started thinking about.

He uncovers the reasons why we view making changes as difficult when it doesn't have to be, and shows how
manifesting change is actually quite easy. He introduces a 3-step process to clarify your desired end
results. The main tool for doing this is his Matrix which helps you clairfy your desires. It really is
quite good.

Dooley will also challenge your limiting beliefs to get you to look past them. The book is spiritual but
not religious and may challenge some religious beliefs. I really enjoyed the thought provoking "Notes from
the Universe" which are designed to get you think beyond the obvious life that you see.

There are an abundance of books on the law of attraction. This is definitely one of the better ones. One of
the best things about this book is his conversational writing style. You feel like he is your close friend
talking to you. He keeps things simple with real tools for change.

The Book You Need To Change Your Life, November 20, 2010
Mike Dooley's book "Manifesting Change" is the book I needed to have when I turned 47 and said, out loud, "I want to change absolutely everything about my life". But, like many people, I too became bogged down by the "hows" he speaks of with such remarkable insight. They are often accompanied by persistent self-questioning: "Is the the right direction for me, what if it's just not meant to be, and, what if it doesn't work?" I chose instead, after a year of unproductive effort, to let the Universe know, simply, that I wanted my life to be used in the best possible way, and then to be brave enough to follow the course in which I was led. Mike Dooley's book will no doubt help many, many people begin to move in the direction their lives are meant to take, and to travel with greater confidence on their journeys.

Wendy Cohan, RN
Author: "The Better Bladder Book - A Holistic Approach to Healing Interstitial Cystitis & Chronic Pelvic Pain" (Hunter House, 2010)

Manifesting Change, December 12, 2010
Mike Dooley and his cosmic alter-ego, "The Universe," offer equal parts wisdom and wit in this companion piece to Infinite Possibilites. It's a metaphysical book that demystifies the magic of how the law of attraction and physical manifestation work. Equally it's a practical "How-To" book about believing in the magic of your ability to dream and create anything you set your heart upon.

For many of us, the hard part is figuring out what it is that we want. According to Dooley, if you get too specific with what he calls "The Cursed Hows," you throttle the creative force of the universe. He offers a Matrix - a kind of cosmic crib sheet - to help guide your visualizations. It illustrates how your thoughts and emotions are the only things entirely under your control, and if you focus on progressively specific details, the message of what you want gets more and more diluted and dependent on other people. If, on the other hand, you focus on pouring good feelings and expectation into a more general desire for Happiness, Health, Abundance and the like - part of his "Fantastic 5" - you unleash the full power of the universe to fill in the blanks, and fulfill your desires in wonderful and even unexpected ways.

The book is punctuated with useful visualizations and exercises that really make you stop and think about your thoughts! You begin to realize the power they have to manifest good and not-so-good. According to Dooley, "All you ever have to do to manifest change is define what you want in terms of the end result" and then "put your car in gear." The direction you move in is not as important as the fact that you are moving. Let the Universe arrange the details. It's good at that...

You'll love it-a simple activity to get you there!, December 6, 2010
This book will get you there, where you've been trying to go. I watched " What the Bleep" and 'The Secret" tons of times and read how to manifest in many books, and CD's now in my library. I heard and read the same things and actually did some manifesting that worked but didn't quite have it down and understand how it came to me. Now in this book, Mike has taken all the pieces of manifesting and conceptualized it to follow every day for 4-5 minutes. The book is awesome with a lot of useful information that I didn't read in the other books. It is quite worth every penny and more. I am very joyful and inspired because now I know and understand how to increase my abundance in ALL areas of my life. I love Mike Dooley's way of writing(delivery). He is sooooooo much fun!! And for about 5 1/2 years I've been getting his daily emails of "Notes from the Universe" If you go to Tut.com, you can sign up for the free daily emails. I couldn't tell you the number of times I was having a sad or 'off' morning and read Tut that totally changed my mood and made me feel so loved and inspired. Tut Rocks!! My dear ones are recieving copies for Christmas. So my wish for you is to read this book Manifesting Change" and be open to recieving all that is yours by Divine right from the Universe.

Dooley Makes it Easy to Understand, November 22, 2010
I've read the books, scoured the web pages, listened to tapes and watched videos on the Law of Attraction. It seems like it should be easy but it isn't working for me. Then along comes Mike Dooley. He has a brilliant way of putting it all together. I was reading this book and thinking about my manifesting technique, questioning how this relates to my life, and every time low and behold a paragraph later he writes the answer. He clarifies the logic with so many great examples and illustrations. The Matrix is genius and pulls it all together. I guess I would say that if you've tried the others, read Dooley and if you haven't, READ DOOLEY! He is extremely accessible with a great written voice. Now I'm asking the universe for abundance and we'll see what happens!

Don't worry about the 'Cursed Hows', November 18, 2010
I think the biggest take away I get from Mike's book Manifesting Change is that we must focus on the `End Results' and not be worried so much about the `Cursed Hows' of how we get to our goals. I know for me I like to think that I have things all planned out on how I'm going to achieve my goals but when I look back it wasn't necessarily my plans that got me there.

Just head in the direction of the `End Results' you want and the universe has a magic way of getting you to wherever it is you want to go if you have the faith and focused thoughts to get you there.

I think really understanding this principle of how thoughts work would save us all a lot of time and unnecessary stress and for this reason alone Mike's book will be an invaluable resource for anyone's library. As always great job Mike.
101 Reasons Why You Must Write A Book: How to Make A Six Figure Income by Writing and Publishing Your Own Book

A exellent read on how to manifest a new life, December 5, 2010

I have listend (audible.com) to this book already 2 times. It explains in easy steps how to change your life and LIVE it ! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Jesus, Moses, the Buddha, and other great teachers were born with brains built essentially like anyone else s. Then they used their minds to change their brains in ways that changed history.

With the new breakthroughs in neuroscience, combined with the insights from thousands of years of contemplative practice, you, too, can shape your own brain for greater happiness, love, and wisdom.

Buddha's Brain joins the forces of modern science with ancient teachings to show readers how to have greater emotional balance in turbulent times, as well as healthier relationships, more effective actions, and a deeper religious or spiritual practice.

Well-referenced and grounded in science, the book is full of practical tools and skills readers can use in daily life to tap the unused potential of the brain and rewire it over time for greater peace and well-being.

If you can change your brain, you can change your life. ... Read more

Reviews

Highly Recommended, November 23, 2009
We have often been told that by altering our thoughts, deeds and words, we can create a happier, more fulfilled life. This book, at the intersection between psychology, neuroscience, and Buddhism, offers effective methods to show us how to live such a life by being fully present in the moment.

Hanson and Mendius, a neuropsychologist and a neurologist and both practicing Buddhists, show us just how the brain programs us to experience the world a certain way by combining information from the external world with information held in neural pathways within the brain. These pathways operate in the background of our awareness, influencing our conscious mental activity. Unless we consciously interrupt this process, we are destined to develop deeper neural networks and even stronger programming.

The argument that the brain has the ability to simulate the world is not new. What is interesting is how Hanson and Mendius link Buddhist teachings on the causes of suffering (painful situations cannot be avoided but our emotional responses to them can) to the deep programming in our brains caused by ancestral survival strategies. They suggest that this hardwiring helped us survive constant life-threatening situations but is based on erroneous beliefs that we are separate, that it is possible to stabilize an ever changing world, that we can avoid situations that create pain and pursue only those that give us pleasure. None of these beliefs are true or can be attained. Their inherent contradictions cause us to live with an underlying feeling of anxiety taking us away from our true ground of being and causing much physical and psychological ill-health.

The main part of the book is a practical guide and is packed with useful exercises and guided meditations to help us develop a more loving, happier, and wiser state of being. The methods Hanson and Mendius suggest are informed by their experiences as therapists and management consultants, and are rooted in Buddhist teachings on mindfulness, virtue, and wisdom. I particularly liked the way they use neuroscience to underpin the tools they offer, only choosing "methods that have a plausible scientific explanation for how they light up neural networks of contentment, kindness and peace." Now I know why taking five deep inhalations and exhalations calms me.

Many of their methods show how to activate desired brain states by consciously changing the association between an event and its painful or pleasurable feelings. This can take a long time. Understanding the neuroscience behind the process can help us be compassionate with ourselves when "swimming against ancient currents within our nervous system."

This book is very informative, with helpful summaries at the end of each chapter. The authors' writing, even when explaining the intricacies of neuroscience, is infused with humor and fun to read. This is a good working manual to help us to become who we already are, and an important contribution to the growing body of knowledge on the relationship between mind, brain, and consciousness. Highly Recommended.

Review by Marta Freundlich

The Click and Clack of the Frontal Lobe, December 9, 2009
"If I know one thing for sure, it's that you can do small things inside your mind that will lead to big changes in your brain and your experience of living. I've seen this happen again and again with people I've known as a psychologist and meditation teacher . . ."
- Rick Hanson


Buddha's Brain will not only explain 'why' you should take in the good but 'how' you can achieve a more positive outlook with some basic awareness skills. The authors, Neuropsychologist, Rick Hanson and neurologist, Richard Mendius are the Click and Clack (Car Talk) of the brain. These two brainiacs/meditation teachers will show you how to create positive feelings that have many emotional and health benefits such as a stronger immune system and a cardiovascular system that is less reactive to stress. You'll learn how to create a positive cycle of good feelings that you can then spread to others. Enough with all the negativity out there! Haven't we all had enough?

As a Type-A New Yorker, one of my favorite exercises in the book is 'Hush the Verbal Centers.' Here you use the power of prefrontal intention to politely (or impolitely) suggest that the verbal activity (voices in your head) shut the hell up. Tell them if they are quiet and well-behaved you will invite them to come yammer away later on after the job interview/tax return/golf putt/midterm exam. For us control freaks this is especially wonderful because now we can control our brains, as well as everything else. Who knew life could be so swell!?!

Last, Hanson's wife, acupuncturist Jan Hanson writes an appendix on nutritional neurochemistry recommending nutrients, supplements and dietary basics to support brain function. "I've repeatedly seen that small, thoughtful, sensible changes in what you put in your mouth each day can gradually produce significant benefits," writes Hanson.

The authors have simplified the latest neuroscientific research and presented it in a wise and compassionate style that comforts and educates at the same time. Read this book and then pass it on to the cranky person in your life!
For more about Buddha's Brain or articles, talks and other educational resources, [...]

Not for everybody, April 24, 2010
This is a very good book in many ways, but it has one drawback that I think is very serious. Basically, the authors do not explain that the exercises they describe may lead to pain and frustration instead of increased well-being. They do point out, briefly, that if doing one of the exercises is uncomfortable, the reader should "feel free" to stop. This is not, however, nearly enough.

Let me explain.

The aim of the book is to guide people to increase the frequency and power of positive emotions in their lives--emotions like equanimity, compassion, gratitude and joy. (And, of course, to decrease the power of negative emotions like fear and hate.) There are a number of ways to do this, but the technique which the authors describe in the most detail is guided imagery. In guided imagery one imagines a situation that will trigger the desired emotion. Each time one creates these emotions, one strengthens their pathways in the brain/mind and thus makes oneself a happier/better person.

The problem is that when some people do this imagery they are unable to generate the intended feelings. Instead they feel disappointment and frustration at being unable to do what comes so easily (it seems) to other people. If the person has a history of failure at trying to improve her mood, and if the person has been told all her life to cheer up, look at the bright side, etc., than this can be quite painful, and, ultimately, psychologically harmful.

To see if these methods will work for you, try calling up some happy memory and see if it makes you feel happy. If it does, buy this book. There's a lot of good stuff here. If it doesn't, I recommend trying "The Mindful Way Through Depression". It has much of the same material but it is directed at people who have experienced long-term mental pain--not just depressives, but also people suffering from anxiety, chronic pain, and so forth. It is a tremendously good, useful, insightful book. (No, I have no connection with the book or its authors. I just think it's a great book.)

The authors deserve a nobel prize, March 8, 2010
This is one of the most amazing, life changing books I've ever read, and I've read a LOT in my 51 years. It's the only book I've ever taken the time to review on Amazon and I'd give it 100 stars if I could. Bringing together wisdom from the fields of psychology, neurology, and contemplative practice, they teach how we can create greater happiness, joy, & love in our lives. This is all based on recent western scientific research and thousands-of-years old wisdom, and not fluff created in the imagination of a new age entrepreneur. The authors describe how thousands of generations of social and environmental evolutionary pressures have wired our brains & bodies to work they way they do, and how we can use our mind to change our brain so that we handle stress better, and experience greater peace and joy. The implications of doing the work suggested by this book has the potential to profoundly improve the quality of one's life, and all those one contacts, and to change the course of the evolution of our species. As Rick says (in an interview), we have the brain of a cave-man with nuclear weapon capabilities. We need to learn how to be more loving, aware, compassionate, and self disciplined in how we treat the earth if we are to flourish as a species, and this book gives some practical tools on how to do this. I've been sharing some of these ideas in the classes I teach and many of my students have bought the book also. The authors also have a website with many great, free, down-loadable articles that elaborate on the ideas.

A great resource to assist the Western, logic-driven mind to make sense of it's "Self", January 27, 2010
I am a Soto Zen Buddhist living the corporate life. Having studied
physiology and now working as a coach and organisational change
consultant I found this book perfectly meets me where my western mind
is and succinctly points a guiding finger to help me understand
my Self. Many times I come back from meditation retreats and struggle
to make sense of and integrate my mindfulness practice within the
context of my ordinary life. This book helps A LOT!

The chapter on the self is worth the cover price alone. This chapter
beautifully brings together neuroscience, psychology and Buddhism into
a clear description on how we cause ourselves to suffer.

Highly recommended.

Buddha's Brain on My Mind!, November 3, 2009
"Buddha'a Brain" is a highly practical, no-nonsense manual to your brain that teaches you to drive your brain using the gearbox of your mind. This very well researched book trains you to fire up your brain, to cool it down, and even to expand your "consciousness workspace." The neuro-anatomical commentary that accompanies the Sunyuata doctrine of "no fixed self" is masterful! "Buddha's Brain" is a laconic, pragmatic cousin to James Austin's "Zen and the Brain." Bound to be a classic!

Pavel Somov, Ph.D.
author of "Eating the Moment," "Present Perfect: a Mindfulness Approach to Overcoming Perfectionism and the Need to Control," & "The Lotus Effect"

A pithy, pragmatic introduction to brain science & meditation, February 18, 2010
I started using this book in my life coaching work and personal meditation practice before even finishing it! Authors Rick Hanson and Richard Mendius have published a gem: This is a highly readable guide to actually using scientific knowledge about the brain in meditation and daily life. Buddha's Brain is written for ease of learning and retention. It's chapter synopses, guided meditations, and pithy, memorable language make it a joy to read and easy to apply.

I would have been happy with this book based on the chapters on The Evolution of Suffering, Mindfulness, Concentration, and Self alone. In the Foundations of Mindfulness chapter, the authors introduce the notion of neurological diversity, providing pragmatic examples of how each of us can adjust meditation practice to our own situations and attentional tendencies. The chapter on concentration,like the rest of of this book, strikes an elegant balance between touching on neurological factors (in this case the role of hormones and gamma waves) with very useful techniques for training the mind. The chapter on Self is beautifully written, weaving together neurology, social factors, and practical tips for relaxing into just being -- and being happier.

Buddha's Brain is a wise, accessible, and fascinating practitioner's companion. It is a resource I'll return to again and again, and is an excellent complement to two other books on my meditation and neurology bookshelf, Train Your Mind Change Your Brain and Being a Brain-Wise Therapist: A Practical Guide to Interpersonal Neurobiology (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology).

Highly recommended!

Enlightenment 101 !, December 12, 2009
This book is a perfect balance of what I have been looking for. It merges Spirituality with Science, which is not an easy task. It seems that this book has been taylor made to all my personal likings of what a book should be. The chapters are powerful and to the point, packing a lot of information, paragraph for paragraph. Furthermore, chapters are segmented into even smaller sections, which makes it easy to read and come back to. There is also a chapter summary of key points made at the end of each chapter. Key points explain how your brain works, how you can pay better attention to the way you think, and with practice, how changing your thoughts can change your life. Let it be understood, its no easy task to change old thinking patterns, but this book has been very insightful in helping to allow you to clearly see how the law of "cause and effect" within your own thinking patters shape and form the life you live today. This book is not a typical self improvement book... Id rather categorize it as a book to healthy thinking, based on Eastern philosophy. Id been waiting for this book to come out for a long time, and I give it a 10/10. Rick Hanson and Richard Mendius have a way of explaining very complicated things in very simple ways. If you take the time to consistently apply the principals in this book to your life, you will see changes.

Loved Buddha's Brain!, May 1, 2010
I was interviewing Rick on the radio (Mind Matters; KKNW 1150 AM) and I read Buddha's Brain for the interview. I read a lot of books and enjoy many of them, but this was outstanding, especially if you have an interest in understanding the scientific perspective on the mechanics of spiritual growth. Rick writes clearly of the challenges anyone faces who is interested in developing self-awareness and greater love, compassion, and happiness. To this discussion, he artfully weaves the latest findings in neuropsychology with traditional spiritual practices, showing that West and East are indeed meeting in meaningful ground important to all of us. It's a fascinating read and I highly recommend it. This book assures you that you not only can grow spiritually; you can actually change the way your brain functions.

Great Job!, February 1, 2010
"Buddha's Brain" is a book that is similar to the works of Dr. B. Allan Wallace, in that it attempts to conflate ancient contemplative practice with hard science, in this case: Neurophysiology. The authors successfully demonstrate that the older parts of our brain (the brain stem and mid brain) are evolutionary holdovers that served the purpose of increasing the chances of survival (and therefore the ability to procreate) yet, in this time and place we no longer have to be subservient to them. That is; we do not have to spend our lives chasing carrots (and being disappointed when we don't recover any) or avoiding sticks (and being disappointed when we get clocked in the head by one.) The crux of the argument is that we have newer, more evolved portions of the brain PFC, ACC etc., that can serve as bridges to other states of being and/or consciousness which will allow for a more unified, empathetic and compassionate life for all.

The most profound portion of this volume, for me anyway, was the prospect that there really is no physiological "hard wiring" of a distinct self. That is: the self which we refer to as "I" may just be another creation of the mind, a montage of distinct "nows" that the mind stitches together in a relatively seamless pattern with "self" or "I" at the center, which doesn't have a physiologic counter part. "Buddha's Brain" is a new, refreshing piece that discusses arcane wisdom in contemporary parlance. 4 and � stars from me, with a 4 on the board.
... Read more

Editorial Review

More than 4 million copies sold!

On the way home from a conference, Don Piper's car was crushed by a semi-truck that crossed into his lane. Medical personnel said he died instantly. While his body lay lifeless inside the ruins of his car, Piper experienced the glories of heaven, awed by its beauty and music.

90 minutes after the wreck, while a minister prayed for him, Piper miraculously returned to life on earth with only the memory of inexpressible heavenly bliss. His faith in God was severely tested as he faced an uncertain and grueling recovery. Now he'd like to share his life-changing story with you.

90 Minutes in Heaven offers a glimpse into a very real dimension of God's reality. This New York Times bestseller encourages those recovering from serious injuries and those dealing with the loss of a loved one. The experience dramatically changed Piper's life, and it will change yours too.

"A friend handed me this book at about midnight, and come two or three in the morning, I was still reading, my heart pumping, bumps on my arms, the hairs on the back of my neck on end. It's a wonderful and inspiring story that brightens your perspective, giving you a sense of security, clarity and warmth."--Donald Miller, author, Blue Like Jazz

"The book describes the brief but sweet heavenly reunion Piper enjoyed with deceased relatives (as well as his grueling recovery, which has included 34 surgeries)."--Publishers Weekly

"Captivating and well written, this books holds your attention and often holds your heart. Don tells his story, his experience that all Christians long to hear. I appreciate especially his honesty and candid feelings of dealing with his recovery and pain. Don's experience will lift your spirit and soften any pain."--Ron Hill, pastor, The Fellowship of San Antonio

"Don Piper's ninety minutes in heaven changed his life and his perspective. Reading his book will give you the assurance that God is faithful to bring you through even the most horrific of circumstances. May his eyewitness account of the hope that lies before you change your perspective of this life as well!"--Michael Carter, CBN chief financial officer ... Read more

Reviews

I couldn't put it down!
Written in straight-forward, simple style without a lot of "religionese," Don Piper has told the story of his devastating accident, his brief time in heaven and his return to a life full of pain and questions. I read it cover-to-cover in two hours and then loaned out my copy. I would recommend this book to just about anybody -- to those with questions about faith, questions about prayer, questions about life and death and pain which we all face to some extent.

His descriptions of heaven are human ones -- simple, not overly poetic or grandiose, just those of someone who experienced the indescribable and then tried to describe it. I loved the descriptions of the incredible heavenly music and I get the feeling that vast choirs and heightened senses await us there. And despite the incredible experience, Piper found it too personal, too private, and too intimate to share with anyone for over a year after his accident. I'm so glad he found the courage to do so.

I also love the honesty with which he describes his pain and depression and the inevitable questions that we must face when we have close encounters with the Almighty. The God we meet is often not the one we expected, and while we can't understand why God does what he does, we can no longer deny this God we don't understand. And while we hold these two things together, our lives are changed and grace is showered down amid the ruins of what we thought was important to us.

A simply-told story of the greatest mystery of all -- you HAVE to read this book!!

90 Minutes in Heaven
I never buy these kinds of books. I have always viewed them as a type of preying on believers or , at best, a sleazy attempt to cash in on faith. This book was different. I read the title and synopsis and passed over it many times but something kept drawing me back to this book. I didn't know why at the time, but I had to buy this book.
I loved it from the very first page. It has a ring of truth. Most of the book is about what happened to Mr. Piper after his experience in heaven and during his long, painful recovery. I bought many copies and gave them to family and friends, urging them to read it as I believe it has the power to transform lives.
About a month after I 1st read this book my son was killed in Iraq. I now know that God was preparing me for what was to come and not be afraid but be joyful that my son is with Him in an indescribly beautiful place, in His presence. I have a peace of mind I NEVER would have known if I had not read this book. I will be forever grateful for this.

90 Minutes In Heaven Is Heavenly!
Don Piper died on January 18, 1989 while on his way home from a church conference. Although he does go in depth into his visit "home" to Heaven, his book really concentrates on his life after the accident. After experiencing a joyous reunion with deceased relatives he was wisked away to earth with no explanation. Don is a devout Christian and suffers greatly from his banishment in heaven and with the physical pain and recovery from his automobile accident. This is really a story of survival against all odds and it is extremely motivating. When we hear of such advertisity striking others we often wonder how they find the grit to survive and even thrive. By reading Don's story we find that survival is based on a mixture of hope, faith and sheer determination. Read this book, you won't be disappointed.

gripping
I don't know what to say, other than - this story has the ring of authenticity. I haven't checked out his facts - and frankly, I picked up his book with a good bit of healthy skepticism. So many people have attempted to make a quick buck off of the spiritual gullibility of others. But based on my understanding of Scripture and my own internal "truth meter," I walked away from this book thinking to myself, "This man may have actually been given a glimpse of heaven." I can see this book providing genuine comfort to those who have lost Christian loved ones...and unspeakable encouragment to those who are themselves facing death.

Dead Man Talking
This is a moving story about a pastor who dies instantly in a car crash and goes to heaven. He is greeted by a welcoming committee of friends and loved ones who have already passed on into glory. The sights he sees, the things he hears, and the whole experience of being in heaven is more wonderful than anything he has ever experienced.

Just as he is about to pass through the pearly gates and walk onto a street of gold, a guy on earth is praying by his broken body, and at that moment, Don Piper is brought back to earth. For months, as he lies in a hospital bed wracked with pain, he wonders why God has not allowed him to stay in heaven, and why he must go through the agony of 105 days in the hospital and (eventually) a total of 34 surgeries.

But he eventually returns to be with his family, and God uses him to bless others with his story.

Some Bible scholars have suggested that the vision of the heavenly New Jerusalem in Revelation is figurative and that the pearly gates and the streets of gold and the enormous dimensions of the city are not to be taken literally, and therefore, Don's experience is discounted.

My response is that if the writer of Revelation is describing what he saw and heard, then it makes sense that Don's description would be similar. At any rate, it must have been an incredible comfort to know that life after death is going to be such a tremendous (and permanent) experience for the believer in Christ who passes on.

Some have been disappointed that the book focuses more on Don's recovery than it does about his experiences in heaven. But Don tells a tight story, and keeps the narrative of his life moving well. He doesn't stay in chronological order once he gets out of the hospital, but you still get the idea that he returned to his ministry and that he served at several different churches through the years.

This is a great book to give to people who want to know more about life after death or life after a near death. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Discover the revolutionary formula that heals the source of illness and disease, even success and relationship issues. According to Stanford, Harvard, Mayo Clinic, the CDC, and other research centers, there is one source of up to 95% of all illness and disease, and it is not your thoughts, emotions, conscious beliefs, actions, or even your DNA. Solomon revealed this source more than 3000 years ago. In 2001 Dr. Alex Loyd discovered how to activate a physical function built into the body that consistently and predictably removes this source so that the neuro-immune system takes over its job of healing whatever is wrong in the body. His findings were validated scientifically and by the thousands of people from all over the world who have used The Healing Codes® system to heal virtually any physical, emotional, or relational issue, as well as realize breakthroughs in success. It is this system that healed Dr. Ben Johnson of Lou Gehrig s disease (ALS) in less than three months; he has been symptom-free since 2004. Dr. Loyd's testing has also revealed that there is a Universal Healing Code that will heal any issue for anyone. In this book you will get that Universal Healing Code, which takes only 6 minutes to do. You will also get: The 7 secrets of life, health, and prosperity (DVD also available) The 10-second Instant Impact technique for defusing daily stress Access to The Heart Issues Finder, the only test in the world that identifies your source issues in a 10-15 page personalized report (which you can take as often as you like) This is your healing kit for life to heal the issues you know about, and the ones you to heal the issues you know about, and the ones you don't. With The Healing Code you have so much more than just a book. ... you have the keys to unlock your own God-given health potential. Taken from the Foreword by Jordan Rubin, PhD, MMD, New York Times bestselling author of 19 health and wellness books Dr. Alex Loyd has the defining healing technology in the world today it will revolutionize health. It is the easiest way to get well and stay well fast. Dr. Loyd may very well be the Albert Schweitzer of our time. A quote from Mark Victor Hansen, co-author of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books Bruce Lipton said You almost have to have a process like the Healing CodesTM to change the wrong beliefs that are keeping you from the life and health you want. Bruce Lipton, Ph.D., is a former Cell Biology researcher at Stanford and author of bestselling Biology of Belief ... Read more

Reviews

THE TRUTH ABOUT THIS BOOK!, June 1, 2010
I am the co-author of this book, along with Ben Johnson, M.D. We knew this book would be controversial. That's fine. However, there are strictly objective, factual errors in a number of these reviews that need to be corrected - for the sake of the truth. On page 217 is "The Healing Code" that can be used by any person for any issue. There is NOTHING you have to buy or register for to successfully do this program for life. You have EVERYTHING you need right in the book - approximately 80 of the 300 pages of the book, deals with the CODE, and starting to use THE CODE within 30 minutes of receiving the book, for any issue you can have in your life. So, the people who have written that the code is not in the book, or that you have to buy something else, do not appear to have read the book. The rest of the book is underlying theory and research. The people who say that the most important bonuses are not available for them on the registration site were the VERY first few people to buy the book - before we really launched it. This was OUR FAULT, and was IMMEDIATELY CORRECTED. EVERYTHING is now available for FREE on the registration site. In fact, we continually add to what is there, all for free, to support people in their healing. There is not anything for sale on the book site, except the book. The people who have written that we are trying to sell other things, have obviously been to our company website that is not listed anywhere in the book. We do have other things for sale on our normal company website, but not in the book or on the book site. In other words, the book is NOT A SALESPITCH! It is A SELF-CONTAINED PROGRAM FOR LIFE that took us 6 years to develop! Just read the results for yourself that people have had using nothing but the book - that are on this site. There is a total of one half of one page in the book telling about one other product, and it is after the content of the book has finished. That product is $197, not hundreds of dollars as some have written. Some say that the book is all testimonials. There are a total of 12 pages of testimonials peppered around the 300 page book to illustrate how the codes work on different issues. There are a number of lower ranking reviewers who do not appear to have read the book at all, or tried the process even once - because they say things that are factually wrong about the book (like the code not being in the book, or that it's all testimonials, or that it's religious, or an advertisement, or does not include related emotions, etc. - all false). The code is not like: EFT, TFT, acupuncture, chakra's, reiki, yoga, etc. The one thing we have never heard one time, is, "I have seen this before". It is a totally new, unique process. It is also a physical process - not affirmations, positive thinking, willpower, etc. One of the more encouraging reviews to me alleges that the favorable reviews on this site are not real, because they are "too good to be true". I absolutely love that - because maybe every once in a while, what seems "too good to be true", actually is true. I call that HOPE! We have clients in 50 states and 143 countries. We let these people know when the book came out, and our publisher let people know when the book came out. That's it! As far as I know, every review is by someone who found the book, somehow or other, and read it. Nothing else! The reason we wrote the book was to put this technology in as many hands as we could for the least amount of money possible. However, whenever something is controversial, some will have their "hot buttons" pushed. When this happens, it is critical to seek and find the truth about the matter - that's the only reason for this review. In our experience, the healing code process works no matter what your worldview (new age, christian, atheist, agnostic, hindu, buddhist, muslim, etc.), or whether you believe in the process or not. It works based on the physical laws of nature and energy. For some, it is like an over night miracle. For others, it takes some time. There are people all over the world who have had MEDICAL VALIDATION of healing. Some have sent the actual tests in to us, some have not. Some have written about it in testimonials, some have not. There are many doctors who have tested and validated the codes themselves, use them on their patients, etc. You will find some of these stories in the book, and many more on our website.

The book is now in most bookstores - Barnes & Noble, Borders, LifeWay, Meridian, Sams Club, Independents, etc. This has happened with NO ADVERTISING. Store owners tell us that it is selling by "word of mouth" after people try the process.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND CONSIDERATION - BLESSINGS TO YOU!!! alex

Great Explanation of the codes and why we don't heal, April 24, 2010
I love this book because it explains so fully why eft, therapy, hypnotherapy, and an assortment of other healing modalities don't last as long as we would like.
Explained as, your consious mind says, Yes, I want a good job, but there are areas below the surface that are holding you back with other ideas about how deserving you are, smart you are, etc... What trauma's were held in the tissue of the body that is reactivated on any situation within you everytime you come upon an issue in your life that pushes the "Worthiness, loveable, smart" buttons?
Take your pick. Anything can cause issues to become stuck in the body and Dr. Loyd tells us how to neutralize these energies...
Great book and I've done two codes so far ( 2/3 through the book)and am definately feeling an improvement.
Enjoy this book it's totally worth it and yes he tells you how to do the codes. I"m wondering if there isn't a Youtube example out there.

Rev. Susan- Chesapeake Beach

The Most Important Book I've Ever Worked On, May 27, 2010
As an author of 11 published books myself, and an editor and publishing coach who has worked with dozens of other authors, this is the most important book I've ever worked on (besides the Bible)--even above my own books.

When Dr. Alex Loyd asked me to help him with his book, I set aside everything to do so because I wanted this information to get into the world.

I had my own dramatic healing with The Healing Codes--it closed up a PFO (hole in my heart), which can be verified by medical records. (The story is in the book.) I had so many amazing results from the Healing Codes that I was eager to get this information out into the world.

Also, I had been frustrated that prior to the book, there was no inexpensive way to learn and use the Codes. I believe the Healing Codes are one of the most remarkable discoveries of the prior decade. The more I have learned about science (especially the DNA of the cell, as outlined in both Dr. Stephen Meyer's Signature in the Cell: DNA and the Evidence for Intelligent Design and Dr. Bruce Lipton's The Biology of Belief), the more I believe that everything in creation is coded. The Healing Codes unlock the issues of the heart.

Dr. Loyd's theory of how the "heart" works--how our memories and beliefs get "encoded" into us physically, emotionally, and spiritually--fascinates me. It rings true to my experience and also to my personal worldview, which is based on the Bible. It's also consistent with what I've learned from how we develop emotionally, as Pam Levin outlines in her Emotional Development 101 course and her book, The Cycle of Life. There is "extragenetic coding" that gets programmed in from our experiences, memories, and beliefs.

As Dr. Loyd points out, the best minds predicted that future medicine would be based on an understanding of energy--70 years ago! Until recently, however, we did not have the science or metaphors to understand how. Now we do. And these authors make it very understandable.

With this book, you have a starting point for deep healing. Use the Healing Code outlined --all the instructions are there. I like the fact that the authors offer more material for those who register their book. The Heart Issues Finder is a wonderful resource I go back to again and again. The Truth Focus Statements you use with the Code and the Personal Tracking Sheet only have meaning to those who understand the Healing Code. They are "extras" that are printables, so it makes sense to offer them in this way.

Another plus for me personally was getting to know Dr. Alex Loyd--one of the most humble, loving men I've ever met. This book was born from his faith and his love for his wife; he discovered The Healing Codes after a 12-year search for a cure for his wife's depression.

It's been a thrill to see the fruit that's come from it--all the people I've seen healed as a Healing Codes coach. The results, for instance, with my 78-year-old mother have been miraculous--so much healing physically, emotionally, spiritually.

I whole-heartedly recommend this book. If you let it, it will lead to real healing of the true source of all your issues--what's in your heart.

DEPRESSION GONE!, September 6, 2010
I was plagued with severe depression for many years. Over these years I tried everything - prescription drugs, herbals, EFT, etc. If anyone had been helped by something for depression - I tried it! After finding the healing code and doing it for 3 weeks, my depression was gone and has not returned. To anyone trying to find fault with this, I simply say "TRY IT FOR YOURSELF", and see what happens!

I feel compelled to address one other area before I end this. I almost didn't try the code because of the 1 star reviews on this site. Oh what a tragedy that would have been in my life - it would have literally changed the entire course of my life in a devastating way. You see, I now have the rest of my life to look forward to - DEPRESSION FREE! I want to speak to this for anyone else that might be in a similar situation, and be influenced by these negative reviews.

The 1 star reviews on this site (that are to be considered - some have obviously not read the book at all) appear to have one of two issues. 1. They claim the book is some sort of trickery to lure people into the religious beliefs of the author. 2. That the book is really just an advertisement for a more expensive product, and you don't get anything useful in the book itself. In other words, the author is disingenuous.

NEITHER OF THESE CRITICISMS ARE TRUE, in my humble opinion. DO NOT BE SWAWED BY A VERY FEW NEGATIVE COMMENTS THAT MAY VERY WELL HAVE AN AGENDA THEMSELVES!

I will state my case. Concerning the religious criticism - the author states that it took him decades to recover from his own religious upbringing - that he tries hard NOT to be religious, but to be spiritual. He actually says that he DOES NOT call himself a christian, and that many are harmed by a religious upbringing similar to his. The few things that are stated about his spiritual beliefs, are stated as an "FYI" for the reader - or as part of the story of where the codes came from (their history - a spiritual experience that occurred during a prayer for his sick wife). That's it, and there is very little of that! There is absolutely not a hint of the author trying to "convert" or "persuade" the reader to his, or any certain religious or spiritual view. This is a misrepresentation of the truth of this book, in my opinion. PLEASE DO NOT BE SWAWED BY IT! Doing the actual "Healing Code" does NOT require any particular religious or spiritual belief at all - none!

Concerning the book being an advertisement for a more expensive program. There is a total of one half of one page in the book about one other product - and it is at the very end, after the information of the book has ended. There is no phone number to call, or link to buy ANYTHING - NADA - NOTHING! The ONLY thing I did for my depression was the material in this book. Since my depression went away, my husband has successfully used the code in the book to heal several physical things himself - also things that he had tried many other things over the years to heal, without results. The authors also actually encourage people to not buy the book or any more expensive package if money is an issue - that's right. They encourage people right in the book to loan the book to a friend, so that they won't have to buy it - or teach them how to do the code over lunch (again, so that they won't have to buy it). In fact, I did not buy the book myself - it was given to me.

I have been reading these types of books for two and a half decades (trying to heal my own depression). I have, of course, read theories that you would put in the same category with what Dr. Loyd calls "The 7 Secrets", which is the theory and research of the book. However, I have never read this theory. It is unique, insightful, clear, illuminating, and supported by research. In other words, it is not one of those books that is just a remake of other things you have already read.

The vast majority of the book is theory, research, and the practice of "The Healing Code" itself! It is not religious, or an advertisement. It is a physical mechanism that works, no matter what your world view is.

If I had listened to the negative about this book, that is not even true (in my opinion - read it for yourself and see) - I WOULD STILL BE DEPRESSED - AND MAYBE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE!

I don't know why people would say these things that are misrepresentations (in my opinion). I guess they are in a lot of pain and fear - as I have been for most of my life. I do know that when I searched for many of the greatest authors in history, like Hemingway, Steinbeck, Dr. Oz, etc. ALL OF THEM HAD 1 STAR REVIEWERS - some spoke of these great authors, and works of art as if they were trash. THAT DON'T MAKE IT SO!

My advise is simply to CHECK IT OUT FOR YOURSELF! Maybe "THE REST OF YOUR LIFE" is at stake here - just like it was for me!

JUST TRY IT!

My review at first read, June 7, 2010
I am not a doctor or author and have nothing to gain or lose by writing this. I have midlife ailments like many people do, so I thought I'd read this book.

I have now read through this for the first time and am eager to apply it. I will not be selling mine back quickly because this is not a book you can lightly read and walk away from. You have to apply it, and probably keep it handy for a long time to get the results you want. This is a physical, mental, spiritual roadmap for healing. It isn't black magic or hookypook or voodoo or guaranteed to be instant, but it shows you HOW to get to the bottom of things in your heart of hearts and receive healing.

If you are sickly, I strongly recommend this book. You may not be "happy" to discover that your pain and illness may have started with a tiny snowflake that snowballed down the mountain, BUT this is a book of hope. That snowball can actually be melted.

This is a book of hope. To say it simply: read this, do the healing code "exercises", and you will have some fantastic lightbulb moments that bring about healing. You will not become or replace God, but you will hopefully get to know God in the process.

My book has the codes/exercises in it, including simple drawings of how to focus your physical body while doing them. Most longterm illnesses don't happen overnight, nor do they get healed overnight, so I am willing to try these exercises to help myself be able to receive healing.

I don't know of other books like this, but I'm sure there may be something similar that others have heard of and used. I have not done yoga or other meditation, but from what I've heard this sounds similar, but with a focus on God instead of a focus on self or another outside source for peace/answers/healing.

I raced through the book only once so far, and see that it is not complicated, but doing these exercises is a whole new routine and so, like any discipline, takes time to incorporate into your life.

An interesting key point the author brings up is about how people try to attract things to their lives, and yet how the heart of a person will keep things from happening. The author's emphasis is on getting to the truth and the heart of the matter, not just attracting good karma or "stuff" to your life.

The Bible says the truth will make you free, so if this book teaches true principles, a person will be made free. If not, it will fall by the wayside and come to nought. You will not lose your free will or get possessed or join a cult by applying the codes/exercises in this book. I'd say the proof will be in the pudding, and time will certainly tell with this book and the codes, but for people who feel in bondage to an illness or malady, this is one recipe for inviting God to help you be free and whole.

The very worst case scenario is that no healing would occur. If that happens, or you give up, you can always resell the book here.

How is this book different than counseling, therapy, or talking to your doctor or best friend or pastor? You are doing this alone with God.

How is this book different than positive thinking or "attracting" things to your life? You are seeking the truth first, not just good stuff or a million dollars.

The truth is what is what the author appears to be seeking and trying to convey. If you watched your spouse suffer for many years as he did, and then discovered something that finally healed them or gave them relief, I think you'd be broadcasting it too.

Bottom line: I have not registered my book or bought anything else from this author, and still feel like I have the full enchilada to use, apply, and profit from the codes. Thanks for reading my lengthy review.

worth getting, July 18, 2010
I have tried lots of different therapies, EMDR,EFT, sedona, hooponopono
matrix reimprinting. I have done 11 years of work on myself -
this book brings together the best of many of these practises, I find it works, and the theory fits really well with the practise. For such a low price, it is exceptional value - your soul will likely be relieved you got it (and used it regularly)

My depression is gone after 20 years of suffering!!, August 22, 2010
I researched the Healing Code online before I finally bought the book. I was looking for proof that it was a bunch of hooey. What I found instead was the answer to my prayers. I have suffered from diagnosed clinical depression for over 20 years. I've taken Prozac, Lexapro, Cymbalta and was on Celexa when I started doing "the Code". If I stopped my medication, within a week I was suicidal and had to start back up. I have been looking for years for a way to get off the anti-depressants. Within 2 days of doing the Code, just 3 times per day as stated, my depression is gone. That's right...I said GONE!! I have now been depression free for a month. I haven't had any medication for a month!! I feel great! I don't know how it works, only that it does. I have also started using it for my 14 year old cat with hip dysplasia. He hadn't been able to jump on my bed or my lap for the last few months, so I thought, why not try the Code on him too. Much to my amazement, I can't keep him off my lap or my bed now. Is this my first time posting? Yes. I've never felt the need to post a review before. But I'm so passionate about my results, that I felt compelled to write this review. I'm a real person, not some kind of plant (as I've read on those low reviews). I've even posted my results on my Face Book page...I want everyone I know to know about the Code. The book gives you the "master" Code. Are there other offers? Yes, but only if you want. I've found that all I need is the master Code to get the results I need and I bought the book on Amazon for $35 (that included the shipping). That was money well spent. I will be eternally grateful to Mr. Loyd and Mr. Johnson for sharing this life changing information with me and the world. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

The Healing Code, July 5, 2010
I have used The Healing Codes for over five years and have found it to be most beneficial. The new book takes a giant step forward. The information is clear concise and brilliant. Anyone reading the book will find a way to heal their body without risking the side effects of drugs. I write a Reverse Aging Column in Doreen's News and at the age of 84, I look, feel and act many years younger than I am. Dr. Alex Loyd and Dr. Ben Johnson are writing to bring this healing method to everyone world wide at a nominal cost.

This book should be required reading for the Planet., September 1, 2010
After reading this book my life is changing, longtime stress issues are dissolving. If I had a million dollars I would buy The Healing Code go to hospitals and give out copies. The healing information is astounding, it is healing at a cellular level. I almost died in 1976 in a car accident I had an out of body experience and since that time have been a seeker .....I am a Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, and have wanted to see people heal....with this book I am healing myself. No wonder I had such a burning desire to help other people it was me that needed the healing. The combination of prayer, energy work, intent, and consistency make this a breakthrough in life changing healing. As it says in the book all illness is stress related and this book teaches you in a SIMPLE way to heal your body. I always thought it was possible now I KNOW IT IS POSSIBLE. One side effect I have noticed is that I feel so much smarter...it is letting go of the stress that gives your brain an energy boost.

depression gone in 20 minutes, June 15, 2010
I just got back from a seminar. Somehow I fell depressed on the trip. It was like a dark cloud descended on me... despair, hopelessness... you know.

I was lucky, I took the brand new Healing Code book with me to see if it is any good.

I opened and looked for an actual code in it. On page 219 I found the "universal code"... better than nothing.

I used it for 20 minutes. I could actually feel as the "knots" of resistance broke up in different areas of my body.

After 20 minutes I felt completely renewed, and there was no trace of depression.

The Healing Codes doesn't disappoint. ... Read more

Editorial Review

This calendar is jam-packed with astrological information to plan the year wisely. You'll find horoscopes, best days for planting and fishing, rewarding and challenging days, and travel forecasts by Bruce Scofield. There's also an astrology primer to help beginners use the vast amount of astrological data contained within. Comprehensive and practical, with original artwork by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law, the creator of the Shadowscapes Tarot, it's easy to see why Llewellyn's Astrological Calendar is the best-known, most trusted astrological calendar sold today.

Reviews

Whimsical, Ethereal Pictures..., September 16, 2010
I just received the 2011 Llewellyn Astrological Calendar from Amazon and am very satisfied with the artwork and content. The artwork in the 2011 edition lies more on the whimsical and airy side - a beautiful blend of Fairy and Tarot if you will. Upon closer observation, you can see that the artist Stephanie Pui-Mun Law really put alot of thought and attention to detail into every page, creating fluid movement throughout each sign. If you still have the 2010 version, you'll notice the art was more traditional and two dimensional in nature, with jewel-tone colors and typical Archetypes being used for each sign.

As far as I can tell, the 2011 horoscopes appear quite distinct and specific for each sign. I found the 2010 readings pretty accurate looking back, even though they were short. You'll find "Rewarding" and "Challenging" dates provided every month as well so you'll know when you should be out on the town or when you should call it a night.

The astrological "Basics" at the back of the calendar are very informative and I especially enjoy reading the "Travel and Vacation Forecasts" provided for each sign. Bruce Scofield is the author of the travel piece and he seems to really knows his dates and times for planning a great trip (as well as which months to absolutely avoid).

Overall, I was surprised by how much this calendar covers: houses, aspects, signs, planets, eclipses, travel forecasts, planting and fishing days, moon signs and phases, retrograde table, and even the Ephemeris Table (which alot of beginner's may not utilize anyway). All in all, this is a beautiful calendar, no matter how you use it, and most anyone would be happy displaying it on their wall for the artwork alone.

Wonderful Calendar, December 22, 2010
I buy this calendar every year. It's a must if you follow planetary daily aspects and much more convenient for quick reference than pulling out the ephemeris. The only reason that I gave it 4 stars rather than 5 is because of the way they show the void of course moon. Instead of showing it next to the aspect in which it occurs (as they have done in former years), they list the void of course time in the top of the box, and in order to see the planets involved, you must look for it at the bottom of the box. It just adds another step to the process. I don't know why they changed this. If it isn't broken, don't fix it. Other than that, it is a beautiful calender.

Llewellyn's 2011 Astrological Calendar, December 6, 2010
This one is especially lovely. I've been getting them for many years as it's a personal interest. Lots of extra room in the box too. Thanks!

Beautiful calender., October 1, 2010
This calendar is really pretty. I love the art work and cant wait for January so I can use it. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Since its publication in 2005, The Gift of Nothing has become an instant classic--the perfect gift for "the person who has everything." In this appealing picture book, Mooch the cat--star of the nationally-syndicated comic strip Mutts--searches for a present for his friend, Earl the dog. Earl already has everything he needs: a bowl, a bed, a chewy toy...What else could Mooch get him? Then it dawns on him: NOTHING! This timeless tale has a heart-warming message about the most valuable gift of all--friendship--that appeals to readers of all ages. Great for a last minute gift, this special edition includes an elegant paper slipcase designed to look like gift wrap with foil accents and an embossed bow and faux hang tag. ... Read more

Reviews

Spare, lovely, moving as a classic fable, September 26, 2005
Whether you're a kid or an adult, or a dog or a cat, or a fan of "Mutts" or a newcomer, this book is going to grab you. What do you give your favorite dog pal when he has everything? Nothing. The cat's journey to find nothing reads to this child in an adult's body as both one of those funny Zen koan adventures...and a heartfelt exploration of friendship. McDonnell's color palate is especially interesting...he sticks to a simple combination of black and white and red, which makes the story all the stronger. Mutts, YESH!

Friendly and Fun, November 10, 2005
weather you love Mutts, or never read it (like me) you will enjoy this book.
As a mom whose child became known as "the kid who has everything" (thanks to his grandma) even I myself have found it hard to pick out presents for him. this will be a christmas gift for my son, and I will ask his grandma to read it too him. This book is simple and cute with a great moral of how friendship is more important, that its the thought that counts, but it is done in a delightful way. This book had me laughing out loud when I read it and is a must by to gently remind kids to appreciate what they have

The Gift of Nothing, January 30, 2006
What a special little book. Everyone I have showed it to as gotten a really special feeling from it.
I will treasure it.

A Whole Lot of Nothing, October 21, 2005
The schweetness of Mutts is really brought home in this wonderful little book that expands on one of the strips and leaves you with a warm and fuzzy feeling. I gave it to my wife for our anniversary (instead of a regular present) and got away with it!! Highly recommended. Earl says yesh.

Perfect for Everyone, December 1, 2005
this is perfect for anyone - from children to just people you love

the gift of nothing is beautiful, and you should share it with everyone. i chose this as a birthday gift for my mother - who, consequently, has given me everything and nothing. i feel it is only right to give the same back. ;)

The Gift of Everything, November 7, 2005
This is a simple yet fantastic book about the true meaning of friendship. In our materialistic world where "do it yourself" TV shows now focus on clutter control, it is great to read a book about what gift is most important. If you liked The Giving Tree, you will love this book.

Another must have ''CLASSIC" for both children and adults, April 9, 2007
The author may have gotten some tips from those classic MasterCard commercials which illustrate that money can buy some things, but certain moments and life experiences are "priceless."

Through the beautifully and simply illustrated tale of friendship between a cat and a dog (the interspecies metaphor alludes to openness and acceptance of differing points of view and experiences), we learn that material possessions and tangible items are sometimes not as meaningful as the space between two individuals, people, living beings, etc. It is the unspoken, uncategorizable, sublime moments of life that are most fulfilling and rewarding, and the hardest to capture or describe. Therefore, when trying to convey the depth of meaning of these moments, we cannot, and therefore, should not even bother trying (to encapsulate them, try as we may through photographs, video, blogging, etc.). The best gift is one that one already has the power to give oneself--the gift of friendship, self-awareness/mindfulness and the ability to honor and nurture the two.

MomSoup Review: The Purrfect Gift Book, November 17, 2005
This is the PURRFECT gift for that friend who already has everything. Great for both children and adults, this is a charming story of friendship that transcends the cat/dog relationship. Even if you are not familiar or already a fan of MUTTS, you'll enjoy this story.

So so so so cute, February 12, 2007
I bought this for the only little man I know (my sister's son.) Since everyone else in the family buys him gifts pretty much all year long... like most kids he has more toys than he needs. So, I thought a non-traditional b-day present would be great this year.

This would even be a great gift for parents of new little ones - it's an excellent, sweet bedtime story!

What could be more perfect?, January 9, 2007
This book is very cute but also to the point. Although it seems that the book is for those you can't seem to find the perfect gift for, it's also a good gift for those whom you'd like to just let them know how much they mean to you. Because, truly, in the long run, it's not the gifts, but the memories and times we share with one another that sums up all the love we can give. I like to add my own personal message in the back of the book for the special person who receives it. It truly touches everyone who receives it! ... Read more

Editorial Review

In the rush of modern life, we tend to lose touch with the peace that is available in each moment. World-renowned Zen master, spiritual leader, and author Thich Nhat Hanh shows us how to make positive use of the very situations that usually pressure and antagonize us. For him a ringing telephone can be a signal to call us back to our true selves. Dirty dishes, red lights, and traffic jams are spiritual friends on the path to "mindfulness" -- the process of keeping our consciousness alive to our present experience and reality. The most profound satisfactions, the deepest feelings of joy and completeness lie as close at hand as our next aware breath and the smile we can form right now.

Lucidly and beautifully written, Peace Is Every Step contains commentaries and meditations, personal anecdotes and stories from Nhat Hanh's experiences as a peace activist, teacher, and community leader. It begins where the reader already is -- in the kitchen, office, driving a car, walking a part -- and shows how deep meditative presence is available now. Nhat Hanh provides exercises to increase our awareness of our own body and mind through conscious breathing, which can bring immediate joy and peace. Nhat Hanh also shows how to be aware of relationships with others and of the world around us, its beauty and also its pollution and injustices. the deceptively simple practices of Peace Is Every Step encourage the reader to work for peace in the world as he or she continues to work on sustaining inner peace by turning the "mindless" into the mindFUL.

"This book of illuminating reminders bid us to reorient the way we look at the world...toward a humanitarian perspective." --Publisher Weekly ... Read more

Editorial Review

High up in the Bolivian Andes-4,000 meters above sea level-lies Pumapunku, an ancient ruined city that simply could never have been constructed by its Stone Age inhabitants."Something here really stinks to high heaven," writes Erich von Daniken.

"In Twilight of the Gods," says von Daniken, "I document precisely what it was that left the first visitors breathless as they stood before the mighty stone blocks some 400 years ago. I will show you what archeologists discovered hundreds of years ago and demonstrate how much has been destroyed over the centuries. Intentionally.

"I will also prove that Pumapunku was not built by any Stone Age people.

"And in December 2012, the gods will return from their long journey and appear again here on Earth. At least that is what the Mayan calendar would have us believe.

"The so-called gods--the extraterrestrials--will come again. We're headed for a 'god shock' of major proportions.

"But doesn't anyone with half a brain know that interstellar travel is simply impossible because of the sheer distances involved? And that extraterrestrials would never look like us?

"Well, dear readers, I destroy these preconceptions. Systematically. One bit at a time."

In his own inimitable way, Erich von Daniken picks these preconceptions and prejudices apart with a clarity no other author could manage. ... Read more

Reviews

Concise and engrossing, August 3, 2010
Having read a lot of Erich von Daniken's work, I knew what to expect going in and I was not disappointed. I was honestly surprised at how quickly I finished this book and how much I learned from it. The subject matter was very engaging and inspired me to conduct additional research on the specific examples presented. This book is very hard to put down, it is very well paced and will leave you with some interesting mysteries.

Amazing reading of ancient cultures!!! A must read for all., August 29, 2010
In the past,I have read about ancient civilizations who made contact with alien forms but so far this book goes above and beyond. The author actually includes his own pictures of the sites he visited so the book has a lot of credibility for those who still are not convinced of these facts. There are too many coincidences of facts that make it impossible not to grasp the idea of aliens visiting the earth thousands of years ago. I'm looking forward to new material from Erich von Daniken. Great work.

Enthusiastic but disjointed, November 8, 2010
Erich von Daniken is most famous for his 1968 book Chariots of the Gods in which he put forth the theory that civilization was brought to earth by alien space travellers that taught some humans their ways and this is the source of the world's major religions and brought mankind from the caveman era to civilization in places such as Egypt. He believes that this truth is documented in the art and writings of the ancient civilizations. The 1970s documentary In Search of Ancient Astronauts was also inspired by this book. Just to be fair to those that read this review, I do not espouse von Daniken's beliefs, but I do find him to be interesting and I enjoy reading about the connections that he sees.

"In Twilight of the Gods: The Mayan Calender and the Return of the Extraterrestrials" von Daniken expounds upon his theory with a bit with more examples of items that should pique the interest of those that endorse von Danikens assertions. Although the title implies this is a exhaustive look at the Mayan Calender and the popular belief that it says the world will end on December 23, 2012, von Daniken does not even address the Mayans until he is two-thirds of the way through the book. Most of his book concerns a pre-Incan site in Bolivia called Puma Punku and the amazing buildings and stonework there.

I do have some argument with von Daniken's history of the Maya. He leads his readers to believe that the Maya were a very healthy civilization before the Spanish began to push into their territory after conquering the Aztecs in 1521. In reality, the classic Maya, the ones that von Daniken is referring to in his book, had collapsed more than 500 years earlier. The Maya that the Spanish conquered were a shell of the classic Maya with a lot of outside influence (if not outright occupation) by such groups as the Toltecs.

Von Daniken implies that the Maya were the earliest civilizations in the area and there is no way that they could have observed some of the older astrological phenomena that they record. He fails to note that the "source" culture for the region is believed to be the Olmec, who existed nearly 2000 years before the Classic Maya.

Interestingly, von Daniken is very derisive of evolution (not of changes in species but in the idea of all life coming from some sort of primordial goo). He uses terminology that reminds me very much of Ken Ham and his Answers in Genesis books. However, von Daniken espouses a theory (I think he does anyway, he throws around a lot of theories at the end of the book) called Panspermia that teaches that an umknown life form shot out its DNA all over the universe, much like one would scatter seeds out of an airplane. Most of it was unsuccessful, but in some places life took hold.

Von Daniken is interesting, as always. However, he is in serious need of an editor to keep him on the topic at hand. I have already mentioned the complete lack of mention of the Maya in the first half of the book, despite the title. Von Daniken discusses everything from Bolivia's archaeological community to Hitler to climate change in his most disciplined section of the book, the first half.

In the last half of the book he seems to toss out random thoughts about the Mayan predictions about the end of time and then moves on to comment on long distance space travel, alien visitors to Tibet, how ideas spread, SETI, warp drives, the astronomers of the Catholic Church and electrons, among other things, in a conclusion that is most unsatisfying.

Is the book entertaining?

Yes, but it could have been much better organized.

Is there food for thought here?

Sure, but to extend the metaphor, if von Daniken were a chef, this would be a very sloppy, half-considered meal indeed.

Erich von Daniken does it again!, September 23, 2010
Must read! My entire way of thinking was changed when I read Chariots of the Gods back in the 70's. It opened my eyes to a lot of things I'd never thought about. This book is very relavent to whats going on TODAY. I truly believe that most of the world is in for a "God shock" - soon!

good news for those who want to know the truth, October 9, 2010
The book is a very good read for those who seek the truth. If you feel short-changed by your religious upbringing about the history of human beings, then this book will give you the seed of wisdom.I can't describe properly why this book gave me wisdom, but it did. I have begun looking for more in what the gods aka ancient astronauts have taught the first successful experiment on human cloning. I am going to read all of Daniken's books. Read "chariots of the gods" or "Footprints in the sands of time" for a primer to the subject and these books will give you what you need to know about human beings. I would like to give the book a 5 rating but in this earthly dimension there is no perfect score, so I give this book a 4 rating.
GS-Malaysia.

Very good book, October 3, 2010
Very good book with new approaches about UFO's phenomena.
Congratulations to Mr. E. Von D�niken.

Simply the best!!!!!, November 21, 2010
Twilight of the Gods: The Mayan Calendar and the Return of the Extraterrestrials

I got this book on Kindle and now I am addicted to kindle. Will never wait a week for a mail man to deliver an Amazon book to my door again and if it is not on Kindle, then I simply will not by it.

This book is great. It is basically the book that is now a mini-TV series on the History Channel called "Ancient Aliens." It is very easy to read, flows with great material and is one of the most authoritative guides on Ancient Aliens and Alien Influence on the planet Earth that I have ever read. Of course, the author is fascinated with Latin American, so he really gets in debt with the alien life that dwelled in the ancient Americas, goes into the Bible and its alien influences plus he by the time you finish the first few chapters, you will know the entire study of Ancient Aliens by intellectuals, including Adolph Hitler, ins such ease that one will not even know that they have become a scholar and expert on the subject of Ancient Aliens and Civilizations.

I really love the book because, like other European Authors, who isn't constantly weighing the reader down with Greek and Roman mythology but is very generous with giving an honest and accurate history, even if it includes saying that white people were not intertwined with every great civilization on the planet, as other authors would like us to believe. He gives the evidence and the facts in a clear and readable manner but it is indeed some heavy material to absorb. I have never read a better book on this subject matter.

Fascinating, November 16, 2010
I found this book to be really fascinating. I have not read his other books but I am vaguely familiar with his work and that of Z. Sitchen. I enjoyed looking at the pictures too - there's a fair many both black and white and color photos. There were times I'd just catch myself looking at one of the pictures for 10-15 minutes!
I found I could read between 25-50 pages of this book at once and that was my limit, but not because it wasn't interesting, it was because I'd have to just 'think' about it.
It was a bit disjointed going between the cultures but that was my only complaint.
I enjoyed it so much I literally read it with a flashlight. It really sparks the imagination!

Mind opening, October 11, 2010
This was my first Erich Von Daniken's book I've read, and at least for me, it has been a very mind opening experience. The author provides very sound evidence for it's claims and theories, although it's up to the reader to decide whether to accept these theories or not.
I have recommended this book to many friends and relatives and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to someone else. ... Read more

Editorial Review

A daily jolt of truth, enlightenment, and clarity. Adapted from the bestselling book The Little Zen Companion, this calendar opens the mind with a koan, quote, parable, sutra, or poem on every page. Lao-tsu: "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." Kahlil Gibran: "I discovered the secret of the sea in meditation upon the dewdrop."
Salvador Dali: "Have no fear of perfection. You'll never reach it." Eugene
Ionesco: "It's not the answer that enlightens, but the question." Plus Zen thoughts from Henry David Thoreau, Dogen, Jack Kerouac, Seng-Ts'an, and Shunryu Suzuki: "Just to be alive is enough."
... Read more

Editorial Review

A Lama Foundation Book. Describes one man's transformation upon his acceptance of the principles of Yoga and gives a modern restatement of the importance of the spiritual side of man's nature. Illustrated. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The author, former U.S. Naval Intelligence Briefing TeamMember, reveals information kept secret by our government since the1940s.UFOs, the J.F.K.. assassination, the Secret Government, the waron drugs and more by the world's leading expert on UFOs. ... Read more

Reviews

Knowledge is Power, April 24, 2002
Behold a Pale Horse is definitely not a book to curl up on the couch with on a Sunday afternoon. The topics William Cooper discusses will very likely keep you reading late into the night. There are two types of people in the world: those who want to know who exactly is controlling whom, and those who are more comfortable taking things at face value. I will say up front that I didn't believe everything I read in this book, such as some of the references about UFOs. What really disturbed me was the theory of the true intent of the government. Cooper's account of what the government is capable of in times of heightened alert is extremely relevant now. It is important to keep in mind that this book was published before the attack on the World Trade Center because the US is finding itself in exactly the position Cooper predicted. Whether or not you think you might agree with the information in this book, I recommend any book written by someone who was killed for the purpose of silencing him or her. Be an informed citizen and know what your government is capable of.

A Wild and Crazy Guy, November 1, 2005
First of all, I will date myself. I have been around the UFO/Conspiracy genre for over 30 years. I have close friends who knew "Wild" Bill. He was, in fact, a Viet Nam era intelligence officer. In fact, I have it on good source that he was what was known as a "uniform changer", meaning he could show up as a navy commander and later as an air force major. These folks had special priviledge and this should not be taken lightly.
I remember when his book came out and many felt that it took some guts to say the things that he did. The UFO issue aside, he had some good information on the other subjects in this book. The UFO information was pretty much the "vanilla version" of what was generally known in those days (the early 90's)
It is my understand that he did have license to kill and actually threatened one of my friends. He could be loud and belligerent, which another friend witnessed once when they ran into him at a bar. In some ways, I can see how he could have been killed by police if he got way to aggressive. He was known for that.
In his talks to groups he used to refer to the public as "sheeple" and I have come to agree with him. He was right on the money about what subsequently occurred in the late 90's and after the millenia. More than anything, the one thing that Bill Cooper hit right on was the prime agenda of those in power- population control by any means.
As a testamony to his guts, I highly recommend this book. But, I strongly suggest that you don't stop there. Research, research, research. In doing so you will get down in the dumps, but you will find things that will change the way that you view the world.

A must read!!!, November 30, 2003
Let me start this review with the truth about Bill's death. Milton William Cooper (58) was shot and killed by deputies of the Apache County (Arizona) Sheriff's Office while they were attempting to serve an arrest warrant for aggravated assault and endangerment on Nov. 5, 2001. I won't go into any further details, since the reader can find more information on the web - and some of it is even RIGHT!!!

His death on "unrelated" charges is most interesting to me. Were those charges just a way to shut him up and discredit him at the same time? Did the sheriff's office go to his home that evening with the intent of getting their man dead and not alive? While I don't have any proof about this, it does stir my imagination.

There are two things to keep in mind while reading this that will help you absorb the information inside his book.

1) This book was published in 1991. You'll understand the significance of that date as he accurately predicts events that have come to pass!

2) Disregard all of the instances where he talks about "alien" U.F.O.'s, moon bases, and other extraterrestrial issues. He later said that all such documents he saw while in Naval Intelligence on those issues were false information to mislead the reader.

Let's start the review!

INTRODUCTION

FOREWORD

1) SILENT WEAPONS FOR QUIET WARS

A reprint of a document found in a IBM copier bought at a surplus sale. In short this document is a blue print for controlling a population. Some have claimed that it's a fake. If it's a fake then someone went to great lengths to draft such a insightful document - but why?

2) SECRET SOCIETIES AND THE NEW WORLD ORDER

A good introduction to secret societies like the Freemasons, Jason Group, Trilateral Commission, CFR, and the Illuminati. On page 72 he accurately predicted that the Galileo spacecraft was going to crash into Jupiter in an attempt to ignite its atmosphere! (Anyone out there remember 2010 and what happened to Jupiter in that movie?)

3) OATH OF INITIATION OF AN UNIDENTIFIED SECRET ORDER

You'll have to decide for yourself if you want to believe this oath.

4) SECRET TREATY OF VERONA

A sample of how Monarchs use treaties to regain their crowns.

5) GOOD-BY USA, HELLO NEW WORLD ORDER

Plans for the suspension of the Constitution and the role of Mt. Weather in bringing it about.

6) H.R. 7049 & FEMA

After reading this chapter you won't doubt the real purpose of FEMA.

7) ANTI-DRUG ABUSE ACT OF 1988

An excellent example of how congress (which is the opposite of progress!) passes legislation which on the surface seems to be reasonable, but under the surface it's really an attempt to suspend due proses, trail by jury, and bring about a police state!

8) ARE THE SHEEP READY TO SHEER?

It covers an Oklahoma law that requires residents of that state to declare to the tax collector every piece of property that they own! A good way for the government to know what you own - especially guns!

9) ANATOMY OF AN ALLIANCE

A discussion about population control and various attempts to decrease the world's population. On page 168 he reveals the origins of AIDS (H.B. 15090) and how it was spread by vaccine. How international wars are created for population control.

10) LESSONS FROM LITHUANIA

A short (two page) but excellent article by Neal Knox on gun control.

11) COUP DE GRACE

A transcript of a conversation between Bill and Randall Terpstra, who was a radioman and crypto operator in the U.S. Navy. They discuss how Nixon was forced to resign by the U.S. military, U.F.O.'s, "Operation Majority," and so on.

12) THE SECRET GOVERNMENT

He discusses a lot about aliens and U.F.O.'s in this chapter. On page 215 he reveals the truth about the assassination of J.F.K. How Prozac is used along with hypnosis and mind control techniques to motivate people to commit mass shootings in order to disarm the public.

13) TREASON IN HIGH PLACES

An article on how treaties can be used to erode the sovereignty of the U.S.A.

14) A PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL MODEL FOR THE NEWSTATES OF AMERICA

A reprint of a proposed socialist constitution by the Center for Democratic Studies. It's hard to believe that $25,000,000 was spent on this trash.

15) PROTOCOLS OF THE WISE MEN OF ZION

Is this document really the protocols of the Illuminati? Read it and decide for yourself.

16) THE STORY OF JONATHAN MAY

A 26 page story about what happens when someone challenged the Fed money system.

17) DOCUMENTATION: U.S. ARMY INTELLIGENCE CONNECTION WITH SATANIC CHURCH

The title is self-explanatory.

APPENDIXES
A) WILLIAM COOPER'S MILITARY RECORD
B) UFOs AND AREA 51
C) ALIEN IMPLANTS
D) AIDS
E) NEW WORLD ORDER
F) U.S. GOVERNMENT DRUG INVOLVEMENT
G) KURZWEIL vs. HOPKINS

Brave man down..., July 8, 2005
Whatever criticisms can be levelled against this book, I believe it to be Bill's honest attempt to reveal the Truth as he knew it, at that time.

For those who are new to Conspiracy Theory, this is a mine of information, and for those who are more knowledgable, it still stands as a classic of the genre, and a very courageous book.

Bill's 'convenient' death in a questionable shootout came as no surprise to most Conspiracy buffs, as the guy threw down the gauntlet in a big way. He was fearless.

One fascinating addition to his Kennedy assassination info came in his video, Kennedy: The Sacrificed King, in which he examines the Zapruder film of Kennedy being hit, and by virtual frame advancing, the clip appears to show JFK's driver, William Greer, shooting JFK over his shoulder, delivering the second and probably ultimately fatal shot.

As for some of his Alien info, I know military intelligence hierarchies, and Bill was only operating at a relatively low level in his Naval Intel role (whatever his supposed Clearance), so he never had access to the big picture, and he himself was vulnerable to Disinformation, as he suspected himself. What he conveys is a mixture of Truth and DI.

On a technical note, the book is not a polished, edited finished product, and many of his strategies such as continuous capitalization for emphasis make it hard to read at times, but the content itself makes it well worth the effort to press on.

Like so many of his brothers and sisters, the guy served his Country with honor in Vietnam. There is much to respect about the man.

A Good Book to Read, September 14, 1999
After reading this book, I almost feel certain that this man ( William Bill Cooper )really did stumbled on some very important documents from the military. The proof is right in front of my eyes as I read his service record pages from the Navy on how he was absent from CINPACFLT base after learning the real truth about the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. But my overall interest is chapter 12, about the secret government ( FEMA )and the real purpose of MJ-12. To tell you the truth, when that television series " Dark Skies " made its debut in 1996, some of the material and information from that show was basically explained in Cooper's book. As they say the truth is out there. I hope you understand where I'm coming from. I'm still looking for more books on UFO's and the possibility of exterrestrail encounters. I must keep in mind that I cannot allow these publishers or editors take me on a joy ride of disinformation. However, "Behold a Pale Horse" is very interesting and enlightning for those who believe that a conspiracy really exist in our country. Thank you for reading my review.

A Must Read!, December 18, 1999
This is one of the only books I have ever bought two copies of at full price, just so I wouldn't lose my copy when loaning the book. And, I could only seem to get a copy by ordering it. Cooper had a radio show that was most always a shocker, so I had to check out his book. There is much discussion about UFO conspiracy, but not the usual rap, and not the true focus of the book. He ties the UFO phenomena with other info that is sure to change the way one looks at conspiracies, suggesting that, in the very least, the public is only being told the twisted truth. Most of it was not written by him, only compiled by him, much of it being photo duplicated from originals. He doesn't care if you think he's crazy or arrogant, as many do. He only asks the reader to review the material and come to his own conclusions. The most interesting thing is that in coming to accept the conspiracy theories, you will have to suspect Cooper as being part of one himself. This is a book you'll likely keep in your library. Recommended for those with a disdain for conspiracy theories.

Mind Blowing Answers to Americas Decay, March 14, 2000
The New World Order, UFO's, JFK's assasination, why our military have become Global police and who the manipulators are is all in there. I read it in one sitting - dawn to dusk - and was deeply troubled. Our own government selling the U.S. to foreign powers, technology to China, panama canal to China, favored nation status for China in WTO, negative trade balance of $5 Billion/month to China all makes sense. I must wonder how much of the latest skyrocketing gasoline price increase was orchestrated by our own Government. This is a book that will open your eyes to what is really going on.

An amazing work that will, hopefully, start critical analysis, August 18, 2005
I was challenged by a friend in the very early 90's to read Mr. Cooper's "Behold A Pale Horse." What I read changed the way I approach life.

The reader's agreement with all the conclusions, facts, figures, stories, or anecdotes found in the book is immaterial. What matters is, and Mr. Cooper states this time and time again, that the reader is encouraged to do their own research! The author's claims are not bolstered or destroyed by belief, or the lack of it. Rather, Mr. Cooper wants you to remain skeptical and verify, validate or refute the facts yourself.

I can say that through my research, as far as the socio-economic-political landscape is concerned, Mr. Cooper was/is right on target. As for the UFO/Alien conspiracy, he recanted his statements in his book and sincerely apologized for providing what he found out to be dis-information.

It is well worth the read; however, do not rest on the copies of Executive Orders, laws and court cases found in the book; do your own research, come to your own conclusions and you will honor the person that wrote this book more than mere words are able to do.

R.I.P. BILL COOPER, October 17, 2005
[...] Everyone should read this book. His website is [...]You can learn more there. the stuff in this book is terrifying!

i wonder why amazon censored and edited my longer reviews. hmmm

It's 2007 and this book is relevant now more than ever:, February 25, 2007
If you are disgusted with reading (Left/Right) Gatekeeper propaganda then William Cooper is for you. Cooper accomplishes what most news analyst such as Chris Mathews, and Anne Coulter won't do, and that's naming names. In his book he elaborates on whose orchestrating the "New World Order."
We as Americans need to educate ourselves about this detrimental topic and Cooper gives us a great foundation to start our research.
And be prepared because you'll quickly discover that "History is the lie that they teach you in school." (Vernon Reid Living Colour)

And if you are distraught over the government's prevarications then get ready to swallow the red pill because what most Americans don't ascertain is that law H.R.4079 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are designed to marshal in the police state. Which if you haven't already guessed, means Martial Law.
Under H.R.4079 the Federal Government has the right to suspend the U.S. Constitution.
Moreover, Cooper brings to light that many of our elected officials are members of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), the Trilateral Commission (TC), the Bilderberg Group (BG), and many other secret societies hell bent on global hegemony.
Cooper straightforwardly articulates that we are losing our country, our autonomy, and our lives.

This book also dissects the Illuminati subject in a coherent fashion. Cooper discusses how these secret societies BG, TC, CFR, and the Jason Society are really different denominations of the Illuminati.
So, if you don't become an expert on the "New World Order and how it works" after reading this then you have no business complaining about the isentropic issues that concern us today.
The Illuminati exist, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Our lives are depending on our perception of reality. What we think is real is really the fantasy the global elite conjured up, which equals Problem, Reaction, Solution!
We are being spoon-fed prevarication that Congress actually writes the laws in this country, but the reality is secret societies set the agenda behind closed doors. Plus, Congress no longer has the power to declare war! Surprised!!! You should be! At 3:30am Saturday, August 4,1990, the Senate passed the Senate Intelligence Authorization Act (S.B.2834). This bill transferred most governmental authority over to the President, which means, "The President was given the power to initiate war, appropriate public funds, define foreign policy goals, and decide what is important to our national security." So, in a nutshell, the President can declare war with any nation at anytime (with or without just cause)! And enact domestic policy as he or she deems fit.
Just take a glimpse at the Iraq situation? George W. Bush started the full scale Iraqi invasion in September 2002, which was one month before Congress voted on the measure and six month before the official invasion on March 20, 2003 (Operation Shock and Awe). So the President declared War without Congressional consent and they (Congress, the Supreme Court and the media) knew it was legal for him to do so, and they feigned otherwise, misleading the American people.

"Behold a Pale Horse" is a 500-page diatribe of information that no one should be without. Whether you agree or disagree with the info in this book isn't the point. The crux is do we have the right to be circumspect, or more accurately, paranoid over our civil liberties being eviscerated before our very eyes? I think we do.

The controversial subject of Area 51 and extraterrestrials is also discussed in this five star book of info. We have to ponder on the fact that our government hides information from us everyday. I personally don't believe in little bug-eyed gray men from planet Neutron 5, but what I do believe is that our government is running clandestine experiments in Area 51 that they don't want discovered. And we as a free society should have the right to inquire as to why they (the government) would deem this irrational behavior acceptable?

Also, Cooper discusses the Freemasons' role in the "New World Order." So for all you Freemason conspiracy buffs this is essential reading.
Oh and one more thing, for all the Freemason researchers out there who want to find out how Hiram Abif died, here's how, "Hiram Abif represents intelligence, liberty and truth, and was struck down by a blow to the neck with a rule, representing the suppression of speech by the church; then he was struck in the heart with the square, representing the suppression of belief by the State; and finally he was struck on the head by a maul, representing the suppression of intellect by the masses." I fail to construe why the Masons think keeping the secret of Hiram's death is so important. There ideology seems rather gauche in the end.

Anyway, I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is an Alex Jones listener, or is familiar with Anthony J. Hilder, Jordan Maxwell, Jim Marrs, or anyone who wants to truly understand how the world's smoke and mirrors methodology really works.

After reading this book I perfectly understand why Milton William Cooper was killed 2 months after 9/11.
Cooper is a hero that should be honored and respected! ... Read more

Editorial Review

"These stories cannot help but touch the hearts and souls of all who read it, nurses or not. The authors have done nursing a wonderful service by bringing to light the touching, funny, heartfelt anecdotes shared by those at the bedside."-Sally Russell, M.N., R.N. , Educational Director, Academy of Medical Surgical Nurses

This collection of true stories champions the daily contributions, commitments and sacrifices of nurses and portrays the compassion, intellect and wit necessary to meet the challenging demands of the profession.

Stories from student nurses recall why they entered the profession; stories from seasoned nurses reveal why they stay, and some stories reflect on the "good old days." Most important, as every fan of the series knows, each story shares hope for the future.

Regardless of age or area of practice, health-care workers the world over will find their own hearts and souls in these stories as they discover the universality of what they do-and the power of their skillful hands and devoted hearts. ... Read more

Reviews

What's better than holiday OT and a Sales Rep with donuts?, August 21, 2001
So for nurses, what is better than holiday overtime and that nice young pharmaceutical rep with the glazed donuts? War stories! And a whole group of other nurses to share them with.

Let's face it, we have to edit our stories around lay people, temper the humor, spare them the deep, down visceral core of our feelings---the fact that have to laugh in the face of disaster, and that we cry in linen closets. But around other nurses? Honey, just sit down a minute and prop up those tired feet and let me tell you a tale....

This is what is so absolutely great about Chicken Soup For the Nurse's Soul: it's the nitty gritty on why we love our profession. And why we continue to love it in the midst of our hardest times, our darkest hours and even now when our country is in crisis with a nationwide nursing shortage. It's a book about dedication and caring. And just who it is on the other side of that thermometer.

Every story in this book is aimed right at our hearts---to make us cry, laugh, shake our heads at what we have survived, and to bring us hope and strength. To make us proud of what we do.

Kudos to Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, LeAnn Thieman--a hero in her own right-- and Nancy Mitchell Autio for this gift you have given us: The right to speak out and be proud.

Great books for nurses, April 12, 2002
Every nurse can relate to the emotions portrayed in this book. The short story format is perfect for the busy nurse to read. The next time you want to remember that special nurse in your life or the one who helped you through a crises, or if you are a nurse yourself, read this book! It's my second favorite inspirational book -- my first being "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life: A Book of Wisdom" by Taro Gold. Giving these kind of inspirational gift books assures that your present lasts longer than candy and flowers and will boost the readers' self esteem! Every nurse I have known who has read these books has loved them!

Nurse's need this!, September 26, 2001
Chicken Soup for the Nurse's Soul is a book long overdue. These stories cannot help but touch the hearts and souls of all who read it, nurses or not. Nurses will recognize their own experiences somewhere in these stories, which affirm the personal nature of nursing and the importance of personal touch involved in the care of others. The authors have done nursing a wonderful service in bringing to light the touching, funny, heartfelt anecdotes shared by those at the bedside.
Sally Russell, M.N, R.N
Educational Director
Academy if Medical Surgical Nurses

Heart Warming Memories, December 26, 2001
I have been a nurse for 21 years and have never read any book that depicts the true value of this wonderful profession. Each story is so easy to relate to. I hope that anyone who is a nurse or knows a nurse reads this book!

Morale Booster, November 30, 2001
This diverse blend of candid and illuminating stories helps to illustrate what nurses really do, and their importance in balancing the healthcare equation. The heart and soul of nursing
involves far more than the fictional portrayals depicted on television or in the movies. “Chicken Soup for the Nurse’s Soul” comes at a time when this dwindling number of overworked, overstressed and underpaid “angels of mercy” everywhere struggle to practice their art against all odds. I highly recommend regular portions of this morale booster.

Laura Lagana (...)

Wonderful!, September 26, 2001
Chicken Soup for the Nurse's Soul pays grateful tribute to nurses - - those exalted and capable servants who selflessly tend the sick, injured, aged, and downhearted with deep compassion and unceasing dedication. Containing more than one hundred true stories of service and sacrifice, this uplifting book tugs on your heart strings and tickles your funny bone while artfully honoring the noble profession of nursing. Anyone who has ever been the recipient or the provider of health care will be challenged, motivated, and enlightened by these inspiring, true-life examples of exceptional courage, commitment and caring.
Dr. Mom, Marianne Neifert, MD

Registered Nurse, March 23, 2005
Chicken Soup for the Nurses Soul

Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, Nancy Mitchell Autio- R.N, LeAnn Thieman

Chicken Soup for the Nurses Soul there were a lot of different stories told by actual nurses. There was all kind of stories. Nurses expressing their feelings and telling jokes about some of the finest experiences they have been through. Some of the writers were giving advice for those who read the book or want to become a nurse.
There were chapters on love, comfort a lot of Inspirational talk. This book inspired me because I felt that these people were being honest. It sounds so real because I work in a hospital and there is so much affection that is needed.
Those who want to become a nurse should really read this book. The details that are given to the readers are excellent. There is some emotional advice and stories.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GIFT TO NURSES, August 17, 2001
I just wanted to write a quick note to thank you for such a wonderful gift to nurses and indeed the profession of nursing itself. Right from the first story I was wiping the tears from my eyes. LeAnn, I think you can be assured you have once again made nursing history. I wish I was as articulate in writing as I am in speech. I would go on and on, but my recurrent thought is a simple "thank you". The timing of your book could not have been better. I am amazed at the level of despair and frustration that is found within our profession. Our colleagues need this book! It seems all to many have forgotten the real rewards of our work, yet you have captured it perfectly. Any nurse who reads this book will either find rejuvenation and inspiration or in my opinion should reconsider what it is they do for a living. For indeed if it does not touch their heart, a nurse may be "what" they do but it is not "who" they are.

Thank you so much LeAnn, Jack, and Nancy for the wonderful book and gift. I wish you the greatest of success, which you have so deservingly earned.

Pat Mahan, President, Nurse-Recruiter.com

Finally a book for the "angels of mercy", October 8, 2001
Words of encouragement for us! After that difficult shift at work, when the patient load was heavy and the 'moon was full', kick off your shoes, brew a cup of tea and relax in your favorite chair with some inspiring stories that remind us we are not only a blessing- - we are blessed!
Joan Edwards, R.N.C, M.N., C.N. S.

Very inspiring!, November 30, 2001
I am a nursing student and am consistently challenged with a negative image of nursing. This book has helped restore a sense of pride in this wonderful profession. I would recommend to anyone in health care, especially nurses. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Ryan Buell, star of the hit A&E series Paranormal State, takes us behind the scenes of his most intense supernatural encounters.

ollow Ryan Buell on his extraordinary journey as he seeks out the truth behind terrifying demonic disturbances, hauntings, and paranormal phenomena to solve unexplained mysteries that have been plaguing frightened families who have nowhere else to turn.

In Paranormal State, Buell gives readers a chilling, in-depth look at some of the most disturbing cases—including some that have never been aired—revealing startling new facts and incredible new discoveries. Buell relives the origins of the Paranormal Research Society—discussed here for the first time—and the strange path his life has taken since the show's beginning. With unparalleled candor, Ryan discusses the intriguing mysteries, the difficult decisions, and the struggles with questions of faith, sanity, and the very concept of reality.

Reviews

Surprising Effort from Paranormal Investigator Buell, September 23, 2010
I'm going to preface this by saying I'm not a big fan of the author's show. I figured there'd be a lot of the things in this book that make his show irritating and distasteful to me, but thought I'd give it a chance and found my preconceptions about Buell and his show completely wrong.

Not only does Buell explain his side of things and his beliefs (as well as intensely personal revelations), but he also takes us into the heart of filming his show.

I finished this book in one day.

Give it a chance - you won't regret it.

Filled With Inside Information on 1st Season Shows, October 24, 2010
This is a very good first book effort. Important Points are....

(1)-Ryan has a more analytical and questioning mind than is seen in most ghost hunters, and this comes thru throughout the book.

(2)-The backgound detail of the first season's shows is tremendous, and answers many questions I had about the episodes. It is obvious that only so much can go into the 22 min episodes, and much gets cut, or left out. My respect for Ryan increased after he explained in so,so much detail,what really the full story of each episode was. Fans of the show will love this. I want to now go back and watch each episode again, having been told this additional information, which greatly fleshes out the video with much background and additional details. Including some of this info would have made the shows even better to begin with.

(3)-I must warn people that the book starts very slow, detailing the intricate history of the early start of his team at Penn State. I wasn't much interested in this part, but the book rewards those readers who perservere. I wasn't able to put it down later on. The second, third and forth quarters more than make up for the slow, sanitary start.

(4)-People looking for a constant stream of scary stories should look elsewhere, but Ryan expounds upon the staight facts of each case in a very honest manner, and this realness of his encounters with the paranormal can be scary enough without needless hype. I appreciated this approach.

(5)-About halfway thru the book, Ryan drops a personal bombshell that just floored me(favorably). I was facinated by his inside, honest story of the effects this had on the people around him. It's tough getting started as a well known ghosthunter, as it is in any other endeavour, I guess. Great Job, Ryan!

(6)-Ryan makes reference to a very profound and devastating early chapter of his nascent team, and states that it will take a separate book to truly and fully explain it. Did this raise my curiousity?--Yes. Would I have liked to have seen this explained in this book?---Yes. Will I buy this book when it is written and published?--Yes--real early. Is this a reason to pan this first book because it wasn't included?--No, I don't think so. This is the way these things work. You can't write a "War and Peace" book with multiple storylines these days, for this audience. This book is about his team getting started, and the first TV season---and it succeeds at that. It's a very interesting and well written book.

Maybe, Ryan's childhood experience that other commenters really wanted to have explained more, is better suited for this other (or another)future book.

This book gets my five stars.

I could not put this book down!, November 30, 2010
This book was actually better than what I anticipated. I always love to watch Paranormal State and feel that the team takes a scientific yet sensitive approach to every investigation. Production time simply can't fit all of the case files into a half hour episode, so here you get more details and information, case by case.

I received this book on a Saturday morning and had it finished that night. Very well written and nice personal pieces by Ryan. Can't wait for the next book :)

Gina

A great behind the scenes look into a great man and a fun show, November 30, 2010
I started watching Paranormal State years ago, and even though I can catch it less frequently now, I still love the show. Part of the appeal of the show is in helping people who are tormented by ghosts or other forces, but the main drawn of Paranormal State is its front man, Ryan Buell. Since the show is always on the families being helped, the light is often kept from the soft spoken Buell, leaving him something of an enigma, until now.

Ryan is frank in his book about his childhood, his family, his love life, the founding of PRS and more. He talks of how members of the group came to be with him, and which members are closer than others. I think there are many facts in here that will shock viewers of the show, like the fact Ryan does not believe in psychics and often seeks to debunk the psychics they have on the show, including Chip. I was very shocked by this revelation. Ryan gives an account of how the show Paranormal State was started, and details all the episodes of Season 1 and 1.5.

I can't help it, I read almost straight through this book, with few pauses. I loved this book, and I have already passed it on to my friends, so they can enjoy it to. If you are curious about the paranormal, if you have ever watched paranormal state, or if you like a good autobiography, then grab yourself a copy.

Highly recommended!

Good, but...., September 27, 2010
Overall, the book is a bit disappointing... but, if you are a fan of the show then there is plenty of insider information that holds you over till the end.
Ryan's first book is a pleasant read, his ghost writer captures his voice perfectly and the segment from the cast members was a nice surprise. So why I am a bit disappointed? Well, I'm a big fan of the show, and while I appreciate knowing more information and behind the scenes info for each of the episodes (of season 1), most of the information is not at all that interesting. He really is scrapping the bottom of the barrel in trying to make some of the segments memorable. Then again, it wasn't until season 2 when some of the more memorable episodes grabbed me. I was looking forward to the book because I really thought that Ryan was going to share some of his experiences as a child. I mean, how many times have we heard how as a kid Ryan's experiences have influenced the person he is today? He does reveal something personal to him (his sexuality), but so what? I guess to some people it's a big deal but not to me. So I was a bit disappointed in that he doesn't explore: his experiences as a kid. Surprisingly, the one thing I walked away from is thinking that there may be something to the rumors that there are aspects to the show that are staged.

Interesting look behind the scene of Paranormal State, December 11, 2010
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Ryan Buell's first book and would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Paranormal State. This book provides a lot of behind the scene information on the various cases shown on the TV show and also provides the reader with a little personal information on Buell. I appreciate that Buell keeps much of the details on his personal life private and had read reviews ahead of time that stated that he wrote more about the show than himself personally so I wasn't disappointed when the book didn't delve too deeply into Ryan's personal life. That's not to say that he doesn't provide some personal information and revelations on how he came to be the person fans see on the show. The book is very entertaining and I enjoyed reading about information not revealed on the show and also enjoyed learning a little about the process the team goes through when filming. I hope to read more from Ryan in the future.

Paranormal State: My Journey into the Unknown, December 4, 2010
I really enjoyed this book. Remembering all of the cases Ryan touched on and the behind scenes happenings. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the series.

Great Behind the Scenes Stories, November 27, 2010
This is a great book for any fan of the show. Ryan gives you more in depth information on the 1st season and on himself. It's amazing how much painstaking works goes into each episode, and only 22 minutes of material makes it to air. That has to be frustrating, especially knowing all the good stuff that ends up on the cutting room floor. Ryan takes his job very seriously, as he should, and I am even more impressed with his professionalism than I already was. Highly recommended.

Journey Into The Unknown, November 23, 2010
I enjoyed reading Ryan's book detailing his journey into the paranormal and into his own inner self. As a person interested in the Paranormal this was invaluable. I especially liked Ryan's and Paranormal State's emphasis on treating the whole person and the whole client and not just focusing on capturing or "proving" the existance of the paranormal. Two thumbs up.

Paranormal State: My Journey into the unknown., November 20, 2010
I really loved this book, I got to read about the behind the scenes during investigations and it made Ryan and the whole show more believable to me. ... Read more

Editorial Review

An Air Force major is ordered to approach a brilliant UFO in his Phantom jet over Tehran. He repeatedly attempts to engage and fire on unusual objects heading right toward his aircraft, but his missile control is locked and disabled. Witnessed from the ground, this dogfight becomes the subject of a secret report by the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency.
 
In Belgium, an Air Force colonel investigates a series of widespread sightings of unidentified triangular objects, and he sends F-16s to attempt a closer look. Many hundreds of eyewitnesses, including on-duty police officers, file reports, and a spectacular photograph of an unidentifiable craft is retrieved and analyzed.
 
Here at home, a retired chief of the FAA’s Accidents and Investigations Division reveals the agency’s response to a thirty-minute encounter between an aircraft and a gigantic UFO over Alaska, which occurred during his watch and is documented on radar.
 
Now all three of these distinguished men have written breathtaking, firsthand accounts about these extraordinary incidents. They are joined by Air Force generals and a host of high-level sources—including Fife Symington III, former governor of Arizona, and Nick Pope, former head of the British Defence Ministry’s UFO Investigative Unit—who have agreed to write their own detailed, personal stories about UFO encounters and investigations for the first time.
 
They are coming forward now because of Leslie Kean, an investigative reporter who has spent the last ten years studying the still unexplained UFO phenomenon. Kean reviewed hundreds of government documents, aviation reports, radar data, and case studies with corroborating physical evidence. She carefully examined scientifically analyzed photographs and interviewed dozens of high-level officials and aviation witnesses from around the world. With the support of former White House chief of staff John Podesta, Kean draws on her research to separate fact from fiction and to lift the veil on decades of U.S. government misinformation. Throughout, she presents irrefutable evidence that unknown flying objects—metallic, luminous, and seemingly able to maneuver in ways that defy the laws of physics—actually exist.
 
No one yet knows what these objects are, even though they affect aviation safety and possibly national security. The phenomenon has been officially acknowledged by numerous foreign governments. For these reasons and many others, Kean concludes that the UFO problem must be more widely recognized and ultimately solved through an unbiased scientific investigation. The material presented throughout this landmark book is sobering, unflinching, and undeniably awe-inspiring, and moves us toward a goal of properly addressing this worldwide mystery. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Learn the latest details and most recent groundbreaking discoveries that reveal, for the first time, the mystery of life in the spirit world after death on Earth—proof that our consciousness survives—in Journey of Souls by Michael Newton, Ph.D.

Using a special hypnosis technique to reach the hidden memories of subjects, Dr. Newton discovered some amazing insights into what happens to us between lives. Journey of Souls is the record of 29 people who recalled their experiences between physical deaths. Through their extraordinary stories, you will learn specifics about:

·How it feels to die
·What you see and feel right after death
·The truth about "spiritual guides"
·What happens to "disturbed" souls
·Why you are assigned to certain soul groups in the spirit world and what you do there
· How you choose another body to return to Earth
·The different levels of souls: beginning, intermediate, and advanced
·When and where you first learn to recognize soulmates on Earth
·The purpose of life

Journey of Souls is a graphic record or "travel log" by these people of what happens between lives on Earth. They give specific details as they movingly describe their astounding experiences.

After reading Journey of Souls, you will gain a better understanding of the immortality of the human soul. You will meet day-to-day challenges with a greater sense of purpose. You will begin to understand the reasons behind events in your own life.

Journey of Souls is a life-changing book. Already, over 165,000 people have taken Journey of Souls to heart, giving them hope in trying times. You should read a copy, too.
... Read more

Reviews

One of the most important books you'll ever read!, December 10, 1999
As a reader of hundreds of books on the mystical, the occult, spirituality, etc. (Robert Monroe, Jane Roberts, Castaneda, Tibetan Book of the Dead, Lobsang Rampa, Theosophy, Yogananda, Chuang-Tzu, Dion Fortune, Eckankar, etc., just to give you an idea of what I brought to reading this book), I can only say that I was ASTONISHED by this book. There are so many questions answered here for which I've never gotten satisfactory answers: for example, how suicide affects karma, why humans are so often evil (and what happens to them when they die), what the ultimate goal and purpose of life is (stated everywhere, especially in Christianity) but for some reason this is the first explanation that has made any sense to me. This description of the nature of the universe and our place within it is fully compatible with discoveries in quantum physics, is simultaneously scientific and spiritual. I experienced profound shifts while reading this book- am changed by it. I cannot recommend it enough. If you buy only one book this year, make it this one!

A ground-breaking book offering proof that life never ends., February 25, 1999
I felt "flashbacks," if you will, as I read this book, especially the discussion about soul groups and the schooling-type activities that go on in the spirit world. It's good that this account includes multiple case studies of those who have been regressed beyond their past lives into this other realm -- and that their answers were strikingly similar. The concept of soul development levels helps to explain a great deal about human behavior throughout the ages. The spirit world's strong sense of kinship, love, and understanding stuck with me long after reading Journey of Souls. How wonderful if these concepts could be shared universally; perhaps human beings might cease to cause each other so much physical harm? Alas, part of the order of the Universe seems to point out that this will never be possible on Earth. That gives those of us who want to contribute positively to the world something to strive for. It also offers a sense of hope, that life, "Here" and "There," is an ongoing series of lessons, and that there is always a higher level of being to reach.

I know we've met before..., June 24, 2000
Michael Newton collected interviews with some of his patients about their experiences between lives. Intriguing? You bet!

I am a mystic and have had memories of past lives, as have many people. My daughter recommended Journey of Souls, and in a conversation with her before I had received mine (her gift), I told her about my immediate past death and what happened afterwards. She was amazed as she said, "That's right." Why? The first thing I said was that I had died so many times that I knew what had happened to me. This was a familiar thread in this book because the trauma of death is exactly that--trauma; however, these interviews show hope and continuance.

My journey through this book was a confirmation of what I already believed happens right after death and of what the between-world, the place of souls, is about. So, although there was not a lot of new information for me in the first third to half of the book, it made me feel very happy just reading it because the descriptions from others paralleled my own. There is nothing so rejuvenating as corroboration from a myriad of strangers.

For anyone who wonders if there is life after death, this answers that question as well as providing insight into soul development and progression. One of the most interesting aspects were the "keys" that we memorize so that we will know certain people as they enter our lives; that feeling of "Gee, I know you," indeed is reality.

Find Out What Happens When You Die...and Between Lives, November 13, 2004
"Are you afraid of death? Do you wonder what is going to happen to you after your die? Is it possible you have a spirit which came from somewhere else and will return there after your body dies, or is this just wishful thinking because you are afraid?" --Dr. Michael Newton in Journey of Souls - Case Studies of Life Between Lives

At one time or another, everyone wonders what happens to them when they die, and what lies beyond the grave. In his book Journey of Souls - Case Studies of Life Between Lives, Hypnotherapist Dr. Michael Newton chronicles the experiences of 29 people that were under deep hypnosis and their experiences between lives. Many books have been written about past lives, but this book addresses what happens between lives.

Dr. Newton did not set out to regress people beyond their current earthly lives. In fact, as a skeptic by nature and one oriented towards traditional therapy, he resisted requests to do past-life regression--feeling that this was unorthodox and unethical. However, one of his clients complained of a lifetime of chronic pain on his right side, and during one of their regular sessions, the client made stabbing motions to describe the kind of pain he felt. When searching for an explanation for this client's choice of images, he uncovered that his client had a past life as a WWI solider that was killed by a bayonet in France. Through this discovery, they were able to eliminate this pain altogether.

He then began to do past life regressions, but then stumbled on a discovery of enormous proportions: he found that it was possible to see into the spirit world through the mind's eye of a hypnotized subject who could report back to him about life between lives.

Dr. Newton explains:

"The research was painfully slow, but as the body of my cases grew I finally had a working model of the eternal world where our souls live. I found thoughts about the spirit world involve universal truths among the souls of people living on Earth. It was these perceptions by so many different types of people which convinced me that their statements were believable. I am not a religious person, but I found the place where we go after death to be one of order and direction, and I have come to appreciate that there is a grand design to life and afterlife."

Dr. Newton shares actual dialogue culled from audio recordings of regression sessions between he and his clients about what happens at the gate of death, who meets us on the other side, what we do once we're there, the purpose of our life, the role of guides, the nature of karma, cluster "study groups", inter-soul communication, what happens to "disturbed" souls, aura colors, the different levels of souls, and much more.

I found Journey of Souls utterly fascinating, as well as Dr. Newton's sequel Destiny of Souls. However, my experience with these books was much more than mere intellectual fascination: both my husband and I experienced an utter paradigm shift about the afterlife, the Creator, and the purpose of life. Up until reading these books, I was still on the fence about reincarnation, and my husband's perspective was "no way!" The compelling regression sessions chronicled in this book convinced us otherwise, largely because of the consensus among regressed clients and how their reports confirmed some spiritual notions we were discovering on our own through direct experience.

No other model made sense to either one of us; we long concluded that there was no literal hell, but what of suffering on Earth? Are our bodies, and our lives, completely random and arbitrary? Is it really possible we live more than one life? Why are we born into the family we are, especially if it results in abuse or pain?

In these books we discovered that individuals carefully choose his or her own body and life circumstances to bring about certain experiences and to draw the soul closer to the perfection of the Creator. The whole point of incarnating is for self development. Yet, no one is rushed back into incarnating, and every soul has a chance to enter a dimension of time/space to "try out" a life and decide if this is the best choice for their own path.

On the other side, there is playfulness, exploration, role playing, lessons, growth, past life examination, and so on. It is a place of rest, healing, rejuvenation, and self-examination. There are "schools" and our learning is a part of a specialized soul group. We have guides who teach us how to work with energy, and others who open up "books of life" so we can scrutinize our past life performance--and decide where we messed up, and how we can best grow in future lives.

A helpful aspect of this book is the explanation of why some individuals go through difficult relationships, especially as children:

"When clients tell me how much they suffered from the actions of family members, my first question to their conscious mind is, 'If you had not been exposed to this person as a child, what would you now lack in understanding?' It may take awhile, but the answer is in our minds. There are spiritual reasons for our being raised as children around certain kinds of people, just as other people are designated to be near us as adults...

...whatever happens to us in life, it is important we understand that our happiness or pain does not reflect either blessings or betrayal on the part of a God-oversoul, our guides, or life selection coordinators. We are the master of our own destiny."

Most encouraging though, especially to those who fear a vengeful God awaiting them after death, is that we are not condemned or punished in the afterlife. Newton writes:

"All soul evaluation conferences, be they with our guides, peers, or a panel of masters have one thing common. The feedback and past life analysis we receive in terms of judgment is based upon the original intent of our choices as much as the actions of our lifetime. Our motivations are questioned and criticized, but not condemned in such a way as to make us suffer."

I highly recommend Journey of Souls, especially if you're searching for answers about the meaning of your life, why things happen, and what happens after death. Truly, we are never alone and are always surrounded by a supportive "great cloud of witnesses".

Janet Boyer, author of The Back in Time Tarot Book: Picture the Past, Experience the Cards, Understand the Present (coming Fall 2008 from Hampton Roads Publishing)

Resonance with Truth..., December 17, 1999
As someone who no longer needs to be convinced as to the reality of reincarnation, it's unusual to find a book on the subject that interests me anymore. However, I was fascinated by this book, and I understand why Journey of Souls captivated me so: Because the world of spirit described in the book (by Michael Newton's regressed subjects) resonates, on the deepest level, with what I remember to be the truth of that world. An excellent read, highly recommended to anyone who is seeking to lift the cloud of amnesia that most of us have about life before birth. As well, Journey of Souls beautifully serves as a clear reminder that a soul incarnates with loving purpose and by choice. I await more from this author; he has written an exceptional book on the relatively unexplored subject of life between lives.

My life-long search is finally over!, August 8, 2002
I was raised in a religious family, but something didn't feel quite right in all those rules. I stopped going to church and doing anything religious for a time because I just felt like it wasn't the answer.
On the other hand, I DID feel there was something that I needed in my life to balance everything else out, and that was my understanding of the meaning of life.
I have spent several decades in this search for truth. Until now, no one had been able to answer my questions. From the very get-go, this book leaves you with wanting more. I read it in 4 sittings (and that's probably only because I have a child!). This book touches on everything you have always wanted to know including ghosts, intuition, child death, crippled people, personal guides (before I was afraid they were 'evil spirits in disguise),time between past lives, why we choose certain bodies, certain familes, and certain talents all the while maintaining our free will in life & our body. This books touches on the union bewteen the mind & soul, when the soul comes to the baby, and abortions. Of course as the title explains, the book elaborates on all aspects of what exactly happens from the time our body dies until (and if) we choose to take an other.
This book is VERY conforting to those who :
*feel a void in their lives
*are searching for meaning
*are depressed
*have lost someone close
****Please remember that all of the author's case stuies come from hypnotized subjects. If you don't *believe in* hypnotism, you'll find this a waste.
This is an excellent book and I have recommended it to several of my clients( I am a Life Coach).

This book helped me to uncover my real priorites and get back to the *important* things in life. You won't regret buying this book!

Exploring the Spiritual World, March 29, 2004
It took many years after leaving the monastery for me firmly to decide that the Catholic Church was just another corporation driven by power and money. I threw out the baby with the bath water.

Many years later I read Dr. Raymond Moody's "Life After Life" which introduced me to a spiritual world I might be able to understand and rationalize rather than just believe. Dr. Moody interviewed over 100 people who were declared clinically (brain and heart) dead, and later revived. He tells their stories. Dr. Newton's "Journey of Souls: Case Studies of Life Between Lives" picked up where "Life After Life" left off, and takes a giant leap toward understanding the life of the immortal soul.

I'd like to live my life looking toward that "last judgment" I learned about in school. Dr. Moody tells how a "being of light" asks a non-verbal question which none of his subjects is able to reproduce precisely in words. This early discovery of Dr. Moody was published in 1975. Dr. Newton's 1994 "Journey of Souls" explains the process more thoroughly. Dr. Newton hypnotizes people, and helps them explore their past lives and their spiritual existence between lives while under hypnosis. The non-verbal question is far more complex than "What have you learned?", "How have you loved and been loved?", or "Was it worth it?" -- the approximations interpreted by Moody's subjects.

Dr. Newton, through summaries and transcripts of his hypnotherapy sessions, helps us learn about spirit guides, (guardian angels), our welcoming into the spiritual world after death (judgment), and the maturation of the souls (karma/nirvana/the beatific vision).

I've looked for this kind of guidance for years in the monastery, in Europe, in Asia, in the Middle East, in scriptures, books, fellowships, churches, temples and synagogues. Life After Life and "The Journey of Souls" and has caused changes in the very foundations of my beliefs, and helps unite the concepts of Christianity, Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, and other religions. For my own journey toward an understanding of the meaning of life and death, Dr. Newton has offered sign posts in poorly charted territory.

If you are interested in spiritual life beyond the doctrines of the organized religions that are based on power and money, "The Journey of Souls" is a must read.

I'm glad I didn't start with this one but ..., January 8, 2001
... it has been interesting. I've been voraciously reading about reincartnation. As with many people I was told about a book called "Many Lives, Many Masters" which started me down this path. I've read all of Brian Weiss's works on past-lives and have now started reading Michael Newton's books but it's going to take a bit longer. The biggest word to describe this is "CLINICAL"! The author writes as though he is presenting his work to a room full of collegues rather than the average reader. Having said this, I have found his case studies extremely interesting as they serve to augment (for me) Brian Weiss's works. Brian focuses on the actual past life experience while this book focuses on the time inbetween to bring us a more complete image of our exsistance. I look foward to reading "Destiny of Souls".

Destined to be a classic, December 3, 1999
Building upon the work of past life regression pioneers like Dick Sutphen, Newton has managed to produce possibly the most advanced text on soul theory. Students of metaphysics will no doubt gain much from this book. Having studied this subject myself for a number of years, this book helped me to finally solidify many of my own views and theories on the subject. Newton's research should provide a lot of inspiration to those searching for meaning in their lives. I can understand the skepticism that is rampant in this field of study, but I am confident that Newton's work will be regarded as one of the most important contributions to metaphysics in the coming Millenium. Indeed, Newton clearly communicates that there is a divine order to the universe that many of us are just beginning to comprehend. Because this material can be so overwhelming, I suggest that people who are new to this subject first read books written by Dick Sutphen and then follow up with this book. Highly recommended.

This book will change your life., September 1, 2002
This book is so believable and has a lot of detail about the afterlife. Be sure to read this book first, then follow up by reading "Destiny of Souls" by the same author. I have read this book 3 times so far, and each time it changes me. It reminds me of why I'm here in this life, and there is a purpose for it, and that there is a reason for the pain and suffering. Reading this book is better than going to a shrink (for me.) Actually though, it makes me want to be regressed to learn what my blueprint for life is so that I can know for sure that I'm on the right track. "Journey of Souls", and especially "Destiny of Souls" have a lot of similarities to Robert Monroe's "Far Journeys" 3 book series. I also highly recommend Monroe's books if you are interested in the spirit world.

This book is not like those other "Life after Death" books, where a person goes through a tunnel, speaks to a guide or God or whomever and then has to come back. There is so much more detail here. It will trigger memories for most people about how it feels to be "home" again. Very comforting. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Conversations with God Book 1 began a series that has been changing millions of lives for more than ten years. Finally, the bestselling series is now a movie, starring Henry Czerny (The Pink Panther and Clear and Present Danger) and Ingrid Boulting (The Last Tycoon). Produced and directed by Stephen Simon (producer of Somewhere in Time and What Dreams May Come) and distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films and Fox Home Entertainment, the theatrical release is set for October 27, 2006.The movie is the true account of Walsch (played by Cierny), who went from an unemployed homeless man to an "accidental spiritual messenger" and author of the bestselling book ... Read more

Reviews

How Does God Communicate to Us?, September 9, 2000
Let me begin by saying that Amazon.com requires me to rate the book in order to write a review. Actually, I have no idea how to rate it because I'm not sure what the book represents. So my three star rating simply means "not rated." If compelled to, I could make an argument for anything from one star to five.

I read this book on the advice of a friend. He told me the book was "fascinating." I certainly agree.

The main thing I would like to say in the beginning is that this book shares some elements with Christianity, but is certainly not Christianity of the sort that most people will recognize. So if you do not like to read books that are at odds with your version of Christianity, avoid this one. It will be a one star book for you.

The author tells us that he had been writing down his religious and philosophical questions on a yellow legal pad for years. One day, he began to hear answers. He then wrote those answers down. What was "dictated" to him becomes the backbone of this book.

I have no way of knowing what the real source of these responses to the questions in the conversations is. It could be Divine communications. It could be Satanic ones. It could be a manifestation of the author's psychology. There are a lot of other things it could be. You'll have to decide for yourself. If you have a spiritual advisor or counselor whom you respect, that would be a good subject to discuss with her or him.

I found myself empathizing with the author's perspective of the conversations. "I am . . . deeply embarrassed by my own life . . . ." "Yet I am encouraged by God to grant myself forgiveness for my failings and not to live in fear and guilt but to always keep trying -- to live a grand vision. I know that's what God wants for all of us."

There were several concepts in the book that I found to be new, and which added to my spiritual perspective. One was: "The truth is, God talks to everybody." That made me think about ways that I could pay more attention to what was going on to me and inside me as ways to know God.

A second one was the notion that the Ten Commandments are there not to be obeyed merely, but as ways for us to test ourselves on how well attuned we are to God's way.

As someone who loves to work on creative activities, I liked the many affirmations about God wanting us to create the goodness we desire through our thoughts and deeds. "There is only one reason to do anything: as a statement to the universe of Who You Are."

About two-thirds of the way into the book, the conversation lost me. There were extensive discussions of reincarnation, infinite universes, gods beyond gods, and moving from being a killer to being someone imbued in love. That material did not resonate with me in either a religious or a spiritual sense.

The most unexpected part of the book for me was that the voice of God (as described in the book) is a very colloquial and humorous one. It is hard for me to equate this God with the God of Moses and Jesus Christ. But that may just be my limitation. To give you a flavor, the language is much like that in the George Burns movie of many years ago, Oh God.

If you are curious about other perspectives on spirituality, you will enjoy this book. If you are looking for a different perspective than the one you have today, especially one that is less threatening, you may find this to be enlightening.

Let me share with you the three laws in the book: "The First Law is that you can be, do, and have whatever you can imagine. The Second Law is that you attract what you fear. Love is all there is." God describes Himself as having no needs, but three desires: (1) that people know and experience Him (2) that people know and experience who they are and (3) that the whole process of life is a constant joy, continuous creativity, and never-ending experiences of total fulfillment.

May your life be filled with valuable spiritual experiences and guidance!

Relativity, August 8, 2005
Seen on a wall in the 60's : Clapton is God
Seen (between the lines) on business TV : Money is God
Heard shortly after a terrorist attack : Allah is great
Seen on searchengine hitlists : Nude celebs are God
Seen in crowd behaviour, summer '97 : Lady Di is God
Seen during the "Thriller" madness : Michael Jackson is God
Seen on peoples faces, last spring in Rome : Carol Woytila is God
Seen at the superbowl : ballgames are God
and what's that saying again, on dollar bills ?
'Nuff said.

Anything can be god, you see.

With CWG Walsch offers you a chance to understand the world as it is. These books render so much outdated, useless crap obsolete. While some people are attached to what they believe to be true (because it has to be, it's so old and still there), i found it better to let it go & open myself to CWG.
Why would old-ness be a measure for true-ness ?
Whould that mean chauvinism is more true than feminism ?
Or slavery more true than no slavery ? After all, it's been around for such a long time...

Those who can will find stuff enabeling them to stand * a lot* stronger in life than before. Don't fear God, USE him.
Walsch explaines why you should, and how it's done.

Absolute highpoint to me is Walsch's explanation of "creation" on the universe. It's poetic, logically sound, and really says it all. A close second is his explanation just *why* there's no such thing as good & bad. I've read many people here having a problem with the axiom there being no "good" or "bad" things, no one however even tried to argument Walsch's reasoning.

Even if you don't accept this stuff to be true, why not take the challenge ? your understanding of the world, and most of all, of yourself. The world can be your home, instead of a hostile, confusing place, which, let's be honest, many people today believe it is, or is becoming.
The world is not confusing, it's perfectly logical.
God is almighty, He is the creator and the creation. The creation is perfect as it is. Who could expect anything less than perfect ?

I can say my life is much better, easier, happier since i read CWG. But it's only fair to say his writings are not for everybody, however.
The CWG trilogy can be nothing short of a revelation to you.


And yeah, Walsch stroke it rich as a writer. So what ? He, and thousends of others are rich. Here's a tip : Concentrate on your own finances instead of his. Your life will be better !

My English is crap - sorry for that. I'm European. Someone had to be.

Forza

Seems harmless, but so did the apple in the garden, May 20, 1998
I read this book when it first appeared in hardback. My mom, in an attempt to buy me a book on religion, got it for me for Christmas one year. As an young, growing Christian, I took the opportunity to read it, and honestly, I could not put it down. It was so enticing and captivating, and seemingly insightful that I ended up reading it all in a day. When finished, I was more in a daze than anything else. Walsch's innovative approach to his personal relationship with God, and the results totally took me by surprise. It was contrary to everything I had known to be true about God up to that point in my life. Some of the ideas were revolutionary, but they totally made sense to me. Sure, why can't God be flip. Sure, I imagine that God could speak to a common layperson, and inspire a book like this one. It is well written and very easy to read, and, as I said, hard to put down. There's one problem though. If you believe in the Bible, Walsch's book is not biblical. Not even close. Not because Walsch claims that God inspired the book....God would never inspire something that contradicted himself. 2Timothy 4:3 says, "For the time will come when they will not edure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths." Walsch is giving you what you want to hear, but do not mistake it for anything close to a realistic look at God. If you want to know or have a converstaion with God, pick up that dusty Bible of yours and look in there for the answers. Walsch's book appears harmless, and upon reading opens many new doors for human thought and action. But I am reminded of how the devil offered Eve that apple saying that God wouldn't punish them--that it was no big deal. The apple appeared harmless......but look what happened afterward. You can make your own choice, just like Eve did.

A Premise Which Is Difficult To Believe, February 25, 2007
Neale Donald Walsch's "Conversation with God - An Uncommon Dialogue (book 1)" has a significant weakness which undoubtedly applies to the entire three book series. For this book to work for the reader, it is imperative that the reader believe the premise, that Mr. Walsch is indeed writing to God and the God is responding by writing through Mr. Walsch. For myself, it simply didn't work; I never believe there was the slightest chance that there was any validity in the premise.

There is no doubt that Mr. Walsh's version of God's true nature and our purpose here on Earth is much more palatable than most of the other religions which are out there. The concept of hell doesn't exist with Mr. Walsh's God, and many of his other ideas are certainly preferable to those being taught by other religions. Ultimately this simply reads like a conversation between Mr. Walsh and Mr. Walsh, and I do not see any value in that. As a result I cannot recommend this book to anyone, and I would suggest that before you purchase this book, you read the first part to see if it speaks to you.

Read with eyes open, September 21, 2005
It took me a moment to decide if I would give this book 2 or 3 stars. I read a few pages of reviews and noticed a very polarized response. I chose 3 stars for one reason: For anyone trying to make sense of the mess fundamentalism (of all types) has made of this planet, this book is worth the read.

Having said that, I wish to speak to those who gave 5 and 1 stars. This book is a mix of truth and untruth, and i can understand the responses. To those of you who felt this book has changed your life, good. It does point in the right direction. Jesus said "The Kingdom of God is Within". Yes. A profound truth. God is not "up there", and separate from us,true. Yet, if it were really so simple, this book would be unecessary, because it would be so obvious the author would have nothing to write.

As for there being no good or bad, it is also true but only at a certain level. Only when you transcend duality can you see this to be true, and i daresay that cannot happen by reading a book or reciting some feel-good phrases. 'All paths lead to God' is as wrong as "There is only one way to God". The truth is in between. To make an example, it is obvious to all that there is more than one train to New York City, yet it would be foolish to say that if i get on any train i will end up in New York.

Why did I write this review? Because I feel strongly that in some way this book does a disservice. True, God is in all of us, yet, to arrive at what can be called 'God Conciousness' means we have to throw off that which separates us from Him. To take something away from people without offering something better may not be the best thing. A solo approach to God has its own pitfalls, namely that of self delusion. How to find someone that can help you in that respect? I suggest earnest prayer to God and attentiveness for the answer. Capable guides DO exist in this world. Using your mind, your heart for confirmation should be your guide, and your experience shall tell you if it is correct or helpful. Why I caution is because although good and bad do not exist at a certain level of consciousness, reaching that level is not easy on your own.

Now what I have read in the 1 star reviews also reflects the truth of those readers. I may say that in a couple of respects they are quite right to be concerned. My main concern is the author's assertion that we make our own morality. Au contraire.
God does not love, GOD IS LOVE. To say 'God Loves' is to make Him like us. If you do not get the distinction or the relevance, I pray that you may. The foundation of existence is Love, and morality is inseparable from this. Love separate from morality is not love. Moral relativism is amoral, although prevalent.

Something is missed when we attempt to 'throw out the baby with the bathwater' (pardon the cliche) That all religions began with the seed of truth should be apparent. That they all have been corrupted should also be apparent. There is a definite need to transcend the dogma of religion. What should we bring with us? That #1 there is a God....like the sun, however, nobody has a monopoly on it. #2 All religions teach us that morality is a key to knowing God.......this should not be discarded. There is NO SPIRITUALITY WITHOUT MORALITY. To some of you, you may not understand how morality is essential if there is no good or bad. It can be summed up: 'All Things are Good to Those who Love the Lord'. Please think on this.

Love is Supreme, all religions have said it. Tolerance is the expression of this Love, this is universal. No doubt more tolerance is just what this world needs.

This book does speak to a need. It may open your eyes, but it will not fulfill your ultimate need, which is to realize your connection. To understand this is just a first step. To achieve it takes real work and a capable guide. If you are sincere please seek one out, remembering that a false guide is worse than none. You should feel peace in his/her presence, and if you feel the guide or system is leading you in the wrong direction, run don't walk away.

If what the author says is 100% true, then we all should get the same answers when we try to have a 'Conversation with God'. Your experience will tell you otherwise. Yet this book has had a profound impact on many people's lives, perhaps freeing them from guilt and fear imposed by religious hierarchies, which is a good start. Guilt and fear are poison to a spiritual seeker, but moral relativism is not a healthy alternative either.

Conversations with the Drunk on the Next Barstool, May 6, 2002
I'm not going to complain that God says "insignias" in this book; after all, they say Latin is a dead language. What pains me are passages like the following:

"In the beginning, that which Is is all there was, and there was nothing else. Yet All That Is could not know itself- because All That Is is all there was, and there was nothing else. And so, All That Is ... was not. For in the absence of something else, All That Is, is not.

....In the absence of that which is not, that which IS, is not.

Do you understand this?

I think so. Keep going.

Alright.

....three elements suddenly existed: that which is here. That which is there. And that which is neither here nor there-but which must exist for here and there to exist....

Can you understand this?

Are you following this?

I think I am, actually. Believe it or not, you have used such a clear illustration that I think I'm actually understanding this."

Now keeping in mind that Walsch was once in advertising, where anything, no matter how off-the-wall, can seem real, perhaps this is an honest statement on his part.

What is certain is that reading this book is like reading the "National Enquirer": it's impossible to satirize because the original is so bad already that any satire sounds like the thing itself.

This book is not merely the Dick, Jane, and Sally of spiritual literature. It's Dick, Jane, and Sally pretending to pass itself off as one of the dialogues of Plato.

It is so abysmally, absurdly bad as to beggar description. If someone has never read the Hebrew or Christian Scriptures, never read any of the Koran, never read any of the discourses of Buddha, never, for that matter, read any of Sartre--such a person might think this book is profound. And that, friend, is pretty darn scary.

Not impressed, September 9, 2009
I was not impressed with the book. Yes, it is intriguing and well-written. But the "wisdom" is what I would expect an articulate, well-versed liberal arts professor to say. So much of it is what we want to hear, what we want to believe. I felt like Neale created a God that placates people, tells them what they want to hear, tells of the wisdom of this age. I have read and studied several religious texts, from the Bible, the Koran, the Torah, etc. In my studies I came to know that the Bible holds the truth of God - but this is a realization for all of us to have individually with God. I actually picked up CwG before I came to believe in the Bible - and I put it down after I read it thinking that the book was filled with man's wisdom. I had a course in college that taught the same thing. I was seeking God's true wisdom and studied Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, etc.

This book is nothing new, and tells people what they want to hear - not the truth of things. I don't think God was the one moving Neale's pen, I believe it was Neale's own thoughts and wisdom moving his pen.

So, you can choose to listen to God's truth or Neale's truth. But this book is clearly full of Neale's truth. The book takes basic modern-day mysticism tenets and attributes them to God moving Neale's pen so Neale can enlighten the world.

Confirmation of Truth, January 9, 1999
When I first read Conversations with God by Neal Donald Walsch, I found many of his new concepts about God, while ringing of truth, difficult to fully accept. Recently I received a suggestion from a close friend to read An Encounter With Prophet by C.A. Lewis. Thankfully, I followed my friend's advise....

Reading this second book confirmed what Walsch said and more. These two books read together are strong evidence that God is indeed talking to us now, giving us new information.. Consider for yourself if it is mere coincidence that two books written about the same time by heretofore unknown authors, neither having any formal religious training, residing in different parts of the country having no relationship that I can discern, could both reveal, strikingly similar but previously unheard of concepts about God.

Consider the following startling similarities:

Walsch says God never gave us the ten commandments. Lewis tells us how and why Moses invented the Ten Commandments. Walsch says There are no shoulds or shouldn't. Lewis says God does not recognize our concepts of sin. Walsch says you have assigned devilish characteristics to God. Lewis says God does not have any character defects. Walsch says .God judges and condemns no one and nothing. Lewis says hell does not exist and explains how man came to believe in this concept.

Walsh quoting God says, " I am not pleased with suffering, and whoever says I am does not know me." Lewis tells us how to handle death of a loved one, abortion, incest, perversion, lust, suicide, murder, without experiencing suffering, judgment or guilt.

If you want confirmation of what Walsh says read An Encounter With A Prophet.

A Mortal who Claims to Have Talked with God, January 13, 2004
Having the ability to talk directly to God is a desire that many religious and spiritual individuals have often dreamed about. But author and spiritualist Neale Donald Walsch claims that he actually has carried on coversations with a higher being, which he includes in this book. He claims that he started to ask questions one day and suddenly, like magic, the pencil started to move on its own while in his hands and God began to answer his questions.

Walsch spends much of this book asking God some direct questions about issues that he was burning to find out about. Issues like the morality of sex, the purpose of man on earth, and other modern- day issues are discussed, with Walsch asking short questions and God delivering the answers.

According to this book, God is not really what many of us have been led to believe. God enjoys a good joke and is not nearly so serious about things. He is also not the punishing, angry figure that many religions have made him out to be. He is easy- going, and understands how and why humans want to do the things they do.

The general response that God seems to make most frequently to Walsch is that the act of being judgemental is probably mankind's greatest fault. It is the act of being judgmental that has caused so many of man's problems and difficulties. If the judgmental attitudes would cease, according to God in this book, most every problem of mankind would disappear.

This is a tough book to rate. Some readers will consider this enlightening, while others will consider Walsch to be a heretic. I'm going to play it safe and rate it three stars. It's a most unusual book, and it at least gets one to rethink the way he/she has been led to believe about the person of God and the issue of morality and judgement.

Think About It, May 2, 2001
I once read a quote to the effect that the most difficult thing for an artist to do while preparing to paint a rose is to forget all the previous paintings of roses and see THIS rose for the first time through their own eyes. I think that's true not just for artists but for all of us dealing with every day life. How would we look at a transient on the street if we could forget what we know of destitution, depravation, and homelessness? For that matter what would we think of a beauty queen if we had nothing to compare her beauty too? Face it folks...it's all about relativity. And relativity is what Walsh describes as the fundamental gift given to us by God.

I came to a point in my life where I seriously questioned my ability (and need) to go on in life. More than anything was the overwhelming sense of helplessness and lack of understanding about who I am and where I fit in. Then, not unlike the events that transpired to Neal, I heard a very clear crystal voice within state: "If everybody knew how good it was when you died, most would lose the desire to live. Because, you see, after you die you understand how things really are, and having that understanding makes you truly appreciate the life you may have taken for granted. Cherish all that you have now, love everyone as much as you possibly can and, above all, do not fear death. For death is, in it's most simple form, a relative transition from not knowing to knowing."

Those who criticize Walsh's writings remind me of the criticism cast on Jesus during his time. He had VERY radical views about the Truth. I'm not trying to equate Walsh with Jesus (who could?) but more and more in life I can not ignore that the truth is not only all the more stranger...but all the more simpler than imagined. Simplicity, therefore, is surely embedded in the Ultimate Truth.

If Walsh is guilty of anything it is of being TOO accurate. Most of us will go into death blindly with a great fear of "judgement." God could neither judge nor condemn us. He understands why we are the way we are and hopes we can see the truths He's placed all around us (and within us.) If you're willing to contemplate that religion, like all mis-understood aspects of this universe, should be pared down to it's most simple form...then by all means read this book...and enjoy it. ... Read more