Shinsuke Hosokawa (author) and Ayako Taniyama (illustrator), Zen Wisdom for the Anxious: Simple Advice from a Zen Buddhist Monk. Tokyo, Japan: Tuttle Publishing, 2020. ISBN: 9784805315736.
I can say right away this is one of the nicest books I've read so far this year. Buddhist monk Shinsuke Hosokawa compiles some sayings and teachings of Zen wisdom to help us find some peace and calm. If you are stressed, anxious, restless about life, this book may be what you need to lift your spirits and help you find some peace. I often found myself smiling when I read this book, and I hope readers smile as well when reading this book.
The book is arranged as follows:
- What does it mean to "live"? A brief definition of Zen and a description of the book's contents. The book features 52 sayings along with "a few carefully chosen words of interpretation and an illustration that emphasize ma" (6). Ma is a Japanese concept "which means pause, silence and space" (6).
- Prologue.
- Spring.
- Summer.
- Fall.
- Winter.
- Epilogue.
- Happiness is right in front of you. A closing statement from the author.
I read through the book in order to write this review, but this is really a book to read at a slow pace. It may work best if you read a saying per day and do so by season. You can then reflect and meditate on a daily message. The text is very easy to read, but it gives you plenty of food for thought. If one of the Zen sayings puzzles you, the interpretations offer easy clarification. In addition, the book has some nice and simple art illustrations throughout the book. The art adds to the overall calm and serene mood of the readings.
Overall, this is a good and uplifting book. If you need something to improve your mood, promote a bit of serenity, or make you smile a bit, this book is perfect for you. This is a simple book for all readers. You don't have to practice Zen to enjoy the book and appreciate its lessons. Anyone can find calm and happiness. This is a book to reread when you need comfort or inspiration, or just to remind you of the small good things in life.
This book is a good selection for all libraries. It is a book I recommend and would gladly have on my shelf.
5 out of 5 stars.
This book qualifies for the following 2023 Reading Challenge:
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