The Kuan Yin Oracle -
Stephen Karcher - Link
This book was purchased at the end of an unusual day that all revolved around this name 'Kuan Yin'.  I had heard it in a 'Hippy Shop' when wanting to purchase a crystal for a friend of mine.  I didn't buy a crystal, but I bought a little statue of what I thought to be the Buddha of Compassion, it turned out to be 'Kuan Yin'.  I then went to drive home but found myself at Carindale shopping centre with no real reason for being there, so I decided to visit the book store there that I drop in on regularly.  Once inside I went to my normal 'hippy' section and had a book, that was crammed in amongst much larger one's, stand out in my vision.  I grabbed it and it was 'The Kuan Yin Oracle' and I know enough about shit by now to realise that I had to buy it and read it.  Which I did, and I did.

Wow.  I will start by stating quite clearly that I am not one who has bothered looking into Chinese philosophies too much, but this is a book really opened my eyes to a living breathing Chinese based philosophy that is compassionate and worldly.  One that provides a connection to the other societies around it, and one that enhances that connection and allows a personal understanding and control over it.  I wouldn't say this topic is for everyone, but this book is only light at 72 pages, as the rest of the book is various readings OF the oracle, it gives a 'quick' understanding of an age old belief system.

Memory's Ghost -
Philip J. Hilts - Link
This book intrigued me.  It's written by a guy who gets to know an individual referred to as "Henry".  Henry's mind was operated on decades ago in hope of curing his epilepsy.  What resulted was Henry having a memory space of only a few moments at best.  Philip Hilts tells an amazing storey of a man that wakes up to a new world every day.  240 pages of writing that will cause you to appreciate those close to you that little bit more, until you forget how special they are again.  Henry is funny as well as realistic, knowing there is something not quite right about his situation, he can't quite put his finger on what it is though.  An easy read that will touch you in a way you wouldn't expect.

Window to the Past -
Hans Holzer - Link
Psychometrizing is the ability to touch an object and to pickup that objects history in some aspect.  Depending on the emotional ties with said object, the 'frequencies' picked up may increase or decrease.  As someone who has no doubt in the logic of how this type of stuff works, I thoroughly enjoyed the reading as it provided depth in storey and a professionally structured testing ground.  I truly believe even the greatest of sceptics would finish this book slightly more accepting.  254  pages and not a difficult read by any means.  Well worth a look, if you're curious that is.  8-)

The Turning Point -
Fritjof Capra - Link
Fritjof Capra is an author that I cannot say enough good things about.  His writing not only makes my brain twist, but his explanations provide me with the inspiration to WANT my mind twisted like that.  Again, from a modern scientist's perspective, he breaks down the Cartesian (mechanistic) understanding our society carries as it's shield.  Not only explaining how it evolved, but why it was a necessary step in our own conscious evolution.  400 + pages, but if you can stick with it I assure that you're understanding and appreciation of the world around you would have deepened forever.

The Web of Life -
Fritjof Capra - Link
I love reading this sort of stuff and Fritjof Capra explains it, I find, in such a way that it actually makes sense.  Philosphy/Physics/Epistomology, this guy has it all.  Providing a modern scientist's perspective on just how similar all of the Eastern & Western understandings of the universe actually are.  Almost 300 pages, but it does go by quickly.  I personally find starting these books the hardest part, but after 30 pages I'm generally very interested and busily absorbing all that makes sense. In this book he explains our connection with Earth and our universe and just how powerful that connection is.

The Concept of Mind -
Gilbert Ryle - Link
311 pages that at times almost did my head in.  Philosphy is a subject that confuses.  At times I feel as though I have an ok idea of what it actually is, and then I'll read concepts such as what this book offers and will find myself realising that I was nowhere near a true understanding.  In saying that, I WILL read this again simply because it DID make my mind twist in on itself at times.

A Mind So Rare -
Merlin Donald - Link
326 pages of mind bending thoughts.  It was difficult to follow at first, but after 50 pages I got into his mind a bit better (I think) because things started to fall into place as far as what was being explained.  I don't know if everyone would agree with it, I don't think most people would give it the chance to be explained fully.  But from what I've managed to pickup (which is probably about 5% of the whole understanding on offer) I was totally blown away.

'Epistemology' is the study of the evolution of consciousness.  It is my belief he should have called this 'Epistemology for Everyone'.  Most of society things that a 'conscious' is that 'nagging voice in your head', after reading this they'd realise just how important and powerful that 'nagging voice in your head' is.

Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand -
Pabongka Rinpoche - Link
To put it bluntly, this is a transmission that was given in 1921 from a highly realised Tibetan Buddhist Monk, he gave this transmission in an effort of joining, what were once, separate lines of logic within the Tibetan Buddhist faith. Over 24 days, 700 Nuns and Monks sat and listened to this one man speak what he knew of life and his understanding of the way things are.  To be humble is healthy, to be humbled is something that a book of this calibre can do.  And it does it very well while also providing the most empowering perspective.

Just as most Catholics and Christians have not read the bible, not every Tibetan nun or monk knows of this transmission.  But those that do investigate things for themselves are often very surprised by what they find in their newly evolved understanding.  727 Pages and also quite large (it's the big thick red one in the 'bookcase' photo), it's a lump of a thing to carry around so I suggest placing it next to something.

Esoteric Healing -
Alice A. Bailey - Link
Not something that everyone would enjoy.  Long, very very long and in-depth, very very in-depth.  There was a many an occasion I considered giving up on it, but once completed I was happy with the effort.  It provides an understanding in the same sense an encyclopaedias would.  And the best is yet to come, there is about 25 books written by this brilliant author from the early 19th century.  All of the same long in-depth writing.  And yes, I have located a book store which can get the complete series, Circle Bookshop in Brisbane, and I've organised for it to be brought in.  it's a lifestyle more than a sickness I think.
   
J
Unless you are really keen, 715 pages, well, Need I say more ?

The Indestructible Truth -
Reginald A. Ray - Link
Anyone with any interest in Tibetan Buddhism should be reading this.  Although not the most 'spiritual' orientated of books, the author is more focused on explaining the structure behind Tibetan Buddhism rather than making an attempt of 'conversion' (so to speak).  A very concise and exceptionally well explained book through-out.  This is a book that I will personally be reading quite a few times simply because I do have a huge interest in Tibetan Buddhism.  It is very well written and although the details are very indepth and thorough, only a few times did I find myself feeling overwhelmed with the Tibetan & Sanskrit terms.  The author has also provided quite a substantial amount of pictues and tables to make sense out of all the explanations.  Another very helpful and well thought out tool provided.

A hefty read at 453 pages, quite a large book to hold too, but one worthy of anyone with this type of interest.  Not for your light hearted curiosity seeker, but in saying that, if a curiosity seeker was to read it they would walk away understanding more about not only Tibetan Buddhism but also about themselves.  Where as most of the books I've read on this topic have been written by established Buddhists of various levels, it was definitely refreshing to have a 'Western approach' brought to the explanations.

The Spirit of Shamanism -
Roger N. Walsh M.D Ph.D - Link
After reading the Carlos Castaneda series I was left with a desperate thirst to understand more about Shamanism and what it was/is.  This book managed to stand out amongst a few hundred at a local 2nd hand book shop and lucky for me it did.  It didn't so much answer all the questions I had towards Shamanism, but it definitely linked a few things I already knew to it.  A very detailed walk through of the history, beliefs, powers and superstitions of various Shamanistic ways of life.  Although focusing more on the Eskimo Shamans, the author also rings in Shamanistic principles of the American Indians, Mayans, Australian Aboriginals as well as countless others.  In the end providing a very world world view & foundational understanding.  One worthy of anyone's mind.  It was through this book that I noticed links to such cultures as Egyptians, Tibetans and even with Alchemy.  It never ceases to amaze me how all these various subjects of ALL our lives are so interconnected, yet we still decide to sit back and judge what we will accept and not accept.  Rather than being like a flock of birds all turning direction in unison and flowing WITH life, we continue to deny ourselves the beauty of our connection with each other while trying to sustain the conquering logic, just in case we want to stick a flag in someone else's backyard and call it 'our own'.  Modern society my ass, 'IGNORANT Society' is much closer.  I mean that with the utmost respect intended.  8-)

A medium read at 268 pages, but one worthy of any individual who claims to have a 'common sense' approach to life.  This won't necessarily change your way of life or blow your socks off, but I would imagine that it would definitely clear up some society programmed ignorance that may have been held onto for  generations.  There is a lot of REAL education out there, this book makes a very good start towards understanding our OWN history and it's connection to shamanism.  This book is now out of print, as such, if there IS anyone out there who would like to read it, let me know and we can work something out.  I am always more than happy to pass books on and there is only one condition.  That condition is that they are read and not used as paperweights, dust collectors, door stops or anything else where the words are not put into use.

Circling The Sacred Mountain -
Tad Wise & Robert Thurman - Link
Mt. Kailash is a very holy mountain in Tibet.  It is said that if one circles the mountain it accumulates a great merit in regards to that individuals karmic debt.  Robert Thurman (Uma Thurmans father by the way) was the FIRST westerner to become a Tibetan Buddhist Monk.  Although he latter left the sect to return to America, his belief's and ongoing instructions have been a light on the pathway for many potential buddhists. Whereas Robert Thurman is going for the spiritual value, Tad Wise is generally a typical 'Joe Bloggs' who is going for the sake of seeing what it's all about.  The book is written by both of them at seperate sections as they each give their perspective on the various events and experiences they have.  A awesome book in anyone's language and regardless of what you believe or think about Tibetan Buddhism you will walk away from this book more appreciative and more understanding of it.

Not a subtle read at 368 pages, and quite large too, but one that will without a doubt sweep you away and you will find it quite difficult to put it down.

The Carlos Castaneda Books -
Carlos Castaneda - Link
There are quite a few books in this series, more than the Celestine Prophecy series and the Conversation With God series put together.  If you have ANY interest in Shamanism, their beliefs, way of life and interaction with the world around them, I HIGHLY suggest reading the series.  Although you will definitely get a good solid kick out of one or even two books, to complete the series in this is like the different between seeing one petal of a flower and comparing it to the WHOLE flower.  Although Carlos' writings have had some various types of 'doubt' from authorities of differetn calibres over the years, the writing itself still remains strangely beautiful while almost driving you too frustration at times.  With ongoing moments of clarity followed by, what feels like, days of confusion the reader is taken from one journey to the next in what seems timeless moments that extend outwards constantly.  Until that single moment of clarity where everything from the confusion falls into place and the reader is left with somehow more power inside for knowing this.

The books various in length, but are roughly about 300 pages in length.  If you can get a book, any book, read it and I'm sure it will change you somehow.  If you can get and read them all it WILL change your life and the way you feel about it.

The Laws of the Sun -
Ryuho Okawa - Link
Holy Beeegeebers.  This is intense reading.  Intriguing, somewhat logical, quite 'out there', but believe it or not it's not THAT hard to get through at only 147 pages.  Ryuho Okawa is a very accomplished individual in the sense of the various experiences and studies he has completed.  He is also someone considered, by some, to be a re-incarnation of a Buddha.  Running the Kofuku-no-Kagaku foundation, Institute for Research in Human Happiness, in 1996 and is not THE most influential insititude in Japan.  He has written over 300 books of which 10 have sold over 1 million copies.

Now that we have that established, this book WILL rock your foundations.  It will test your logics on the world around you as well as take those logics to new levels.  It will provide details for various aspects of your life that may have not been clear to you before, while at the same time removing old 'routine philosphies' that you may have held onto tightly for years.  IF you think you are able to deal with it, I definitely suggest reading it.  A few times will be needed as once or twice is definitely not enough.  In fact, as far as new modes of thinking and having a very solid foundation of logic behind it, this style of writing is something that is years ahead of most of the main stream books out there.  It doesn't assume the reader is stupid, but rather, the writer assumes he is merely clarifying what you already know.

From Atlantis to the Sphinx -
Colin Wilson - Link
Although it did take me a while to get into, I believe this was more because of my readings as of late have been more focused towards other things specifically.  Atlantis & Egypt topics, like Alchemy, are somewhat 'hobby interests' for me and as such the books I read on them aren't as common as the more spiritually inclined ones.  However, in saying that, this book is a great read for anyone interested in ancient egyptian times.  Very well written, with a lot of reference materials listed and information brought from many different avenues.  Although I will more than likely not read this again, that is more due to the information it had being slightly 'outdated' in comparison to some other stuff I've read.  The logics presented in this book are very sound and concise, pointing out flaws in established arguments as well as pointing out some not very well known history about the 'established arguments and logics'.  Without a doubt, after reading this, you will not look at Egyptian past in the same way ever again.

254 pages in length and only small in physical size, the book is not a difficult one to get through.  However, if you are not used to this sort of science read then it may be a little bit overwhelming at first.  Once the first 50 pages are down though I'm sure anyone reading this would find it more than just enjoyable, but informative and thought provoking too.  This was a loan from Scott's Dad, Dave, whom I share similar ancient civilisation interests in. 

Thank you very much for the loan of this Dave.

Cosmic Consciousness - Revisited -
Robert M May - Link
My sort of book.  Very much my sort of book, although it was a little bit lighter than I'd like but still a great read.  326 Pages of a great overview, and quite specific in 'specific' sections, into what consciousness is or at least perceived to be.  Covers many individuals over the centuries of this personal quest, Jung, Bucke, Freud to name but a few.  A little too specific (for me) on specific individuals, Bucke was the most prodominant from what I could see, but still definitely worth a look at.

Took about 6 days to get through and there wasn't many sections that were 'too intense' either, which is nice for a book of this type.  Again, if you are interested in consciousness and what it is and how scientist as well as mystics believe (and have believed for thousands of years), go get it and take the plunge.  I'm sure by the end of it you will not think about your life in the same way.

Zen is Eternal Life -
Roshi P.T.N.H. Jiyu-Kennet - Link
My first Zen book.  An interesting introduction to it without a doubt.  Although I am not sure if it would be everyone's cup of tea.  Written by a English women who found Zen and studied it whole heartedly becoming one of it's first Western female Reverend Masters.  She founded Shasta Abbey in Mount Shasta, California in 1970 and although passing away on November 6th 1996, her disciples have carried her words forward and re-released her writings.

The read itself is reasonably good and well structured, however I personally found that the introductions into the various ceremonies a bit too detailed.  At times feeling like I was reading a instructional manual.  The writing flows quite nicely for the most part and although alot of what is written about is in-depth, it is delivered in a reasonably calm and passive way.  There were times though where I felt the author was making some fairly harsh judgements, something from what I've read is not a Buddhist way, however Zen is (from my primitive understanding of it) a rather 'perfect' practise and as such I believe that there can be a tinge of harshness to it's discipline.

The Crucible of Consciousness -
Zolton Torey - Link
Without a doubt, one of the most intense books I have ever come across.  The title pretty much says it all really.  This book is basically written about consciousness in all it's glory.  Zolton Torey is actually a bit of a remarkable individual in that he was blinded by an industrial accident, he studied the mind and sense's and basically has become a world leader in the understanding of such subjects.  The book itself is in no way a 'light read' but if you ARE actually interested in this sort of stuff, although I suggest reading this book, I do so with the added comment of "take your time" as there are some very heavy parts in the reading.

The Emerald Tablet -
Dennis William Hauck - Link
The Emerald Tablet is a book for any avid Alchemy reader, providing explanations, history, exercises, sources as well as examples of Alchemy in our present day.  Discussing the self-transformation aspects of it more than the well-known physical element changing aspects of the practise, this is a great book for anyone with the smallest of interests in the subject.  Alot of Alchemy books seem to be more morbid and 'gothic' in feel, where as this felt a lot more of a 'light-read' and less stained in dark history.  Although touching on most area's, the book itself is written in such a way that it's presented with less of a 'dark' feel.

Where as most Alchemy books tend to focus on the 'Gold making' aspect of the practise, this book takes that one step further and brings the spiritual transformation of the practise to the readers mind.  A good read, in my opinion, even if you are just looking for 'something else to read', this book will open your eyes to a side of our history that will almost definitely give you a greater appreciation of the world around you.

The Philosopher's Stone -
Peter Marshall - Link
If you have any interest in Alchemy I insist that you read this book.  Providing a historical tale as well as down right factual details, the book covers the globe and many people, religions, countries and philosophies along the way.  The writer travelled all over the globe to uncover the truth behind this ancient philosophy of life, a philosophy that promises an elixir of life known commonly as 'The Philosopher's Stone', it points out just how many reference points and background our human history has with this art.  Providing a very full appreciation of it's delicate mixtures, dedicated training, coded words and secret meetings.  Alchemy has been a prodominant part of our evolution and reading a book such as this gives you a very good understanding on the wide area that has been covered by one of the oldest ways of life known to our planet.

A big 466 pages, it does take a bit to get through, but not a difficult read by any means.  There is another 79 pages which include a Glossary, Bibliography and an index.  It's not the sort of book that will fit in your pocket, but it could be the sort of book to help you along in life in answering many many of those questions we all seem to gather up over the years.

Ishmael -
Daniel Quinn - Link
I have two main words that I would like to introduce you too in regards to this book.  "Read It".
There have been many different aspects of life that have evolved my way of thinking or my perception of what's going on around me.  Up until this book I was definitely locked into a programmed mode of thinking that is unfortunately very prodominant in our 'modern' society.  This book will blow that programming out of the water.  If you read one book a year, read this one THIS YEAR.  I guarantee you that it WILL change the way you think about life, where you fit in, what you feel the need to do and how you feel towards yourself.

263 Pages of an incredible journey and the friendship that is created.

Open Secrets -
Walter Truett Anderson - Link
If there is anyone out there that wants to know what the philosophy of Buddhism is about, then this is definitely the book for them.  Although written a while ago, it's message is still on the money.  The way it is written is very much aimed towards the Western reader who is curious about Eastern ways of thinking.  I enjoyed this book thoroughly, probably more to do with the Buddhist side of it, on many levels and it quickly began to become one of my favourites.  Explanations are in-depth without being annoyingly difficult to understand, and it will leave any reader with a definitely enhanced appreciation of the great Eastern philosophy.  It also runs the reader through exercises, meditations and an understanding of some of the more mysterious sides of Eastern way of life.

213 Pages.  A small 'novel sized' book and very easy to become engrossed in the way of thinking.

The Purpose of Your Life -
Carol Adrienne - Link
Another very easy book to read.  This is a simply written book that tackles some of the harder issues, but in a very delicate way.  I'd imagine it's written with those 'Don't know where I'm going in life' types in mind.  However, I would definitely state that anyone who was to read this book would definitely walk away with quite a few extra things to think about.  Perhaps even change the occasional outlook and perception of what's REALLY going on in the world around us.

294 Pages that are easily read.  I found that my train trips were easily flying by as this book totally enthralled me with its simplicity in approach.

The Primal Revolution -
Arthur Janov Ph.D - Link
From what I understand this book was quite big in the 70's.  Not a bad read, although compared to the books on the market these days, his logic of therapies is slightly dated.  A lot of topics are covered including Alcoholism, Paranoia, Perversion, Violence as well as many others.  The issue's are as relevant today as what they were then I'd imagine, more so possibly.  As such this book is just as a relevant read now and at times probably more so due to it being presented in a 70's manner, if there is such a thing.  Maybe it was a personal thing, but I could almost picture the writer wearing flares while typing these words.

285 pages that flow reasonably well and it left me with a feeling of comfort in my own awareness, along with an acceptance that our society knows more about what's going on than it makes out.  Perhaps if we each read some of the older materials we would all appreciate where we are at a bit more.  Appreciation's funny like that, it either comes to us from something leaving us or it comes to us because of an effort of accomplishment.

The Search for the Panchen Lama -
Isabel Hilton - Link
If you are at all interested in the plight of the Tibetan people then this is a book you will be interested in.  The Panchen Lama, like the His Holiness the Dalia Lama,  is a well respected religious authority within Tibetan Buddhism.  This book tells of the history of the line of this authority as well as explaining a good amount of Tibetan Buddhist history.  Quite a good read.

311 Pages.  It's a book that is worth the read, but will be an easy read if you have an interest in Tibetan Buddhism.  If you are curious about this philosophy then this book is also probably worth a look as you will walk away with a great understanding and appreciation.

Emotional Alchemy -
Tara Bennett-Goleman - Link
Nice read.  Very nice indeed.  Easy to understand and quite insightful in most area's.  Basically this is a book that explains why people do things the way they do and then it takes it one step further and explains the effects of it on lives, as well as explaining and giving working exercises on how to 'advance' onwards in life.  The reading itself is quite in-depth, however it is written in such a way that you don't feel as though you are reading anything intense.  Not so much 'direct to the point', but the writing seems to provide more of a grounding first and then moving into the 'nitty gritty' of it all. 

321 Pages that flow quite well and with very little effort.

The Edge of the Possible -
Tony Donovan  - Link

This has to be one of the more interesting books that I've managed to stumble across.  It's interesting simply because of the subject, 'human intelligence'.  It's a compelling exploration of where we've been, where we are now and where we appear to be evolving too.  An awesome read for those who really do want to understand our 'modern' society and culture.

285 Pages.  Very easy to flow through.

Modern Prophet -
Edgar Cayce - Link
Unless there is an existing interest in Edgar Cayce and his life, this book may be a little too big for you.  With 4 books included in this, it has over 600 pages in it.  If you are, however, an Edgar Cayce fan (such as myself) then you will without a doubt love this book.  It covers Edgar on Prophecy, Religion and Psychic experiences, Mysteries of the Mind and Reincarnation. A great insight into the man who helped thousands and still effects those in our society today.

The Way of the Shaman -
Michael Harner - Link
Only for those with an interest in Shamanism and had some prior appreciation of it.  This book is a great read for information on the logics and beliefs of the Shaman.  The philosophies and life morals they lived by and strived towards.  A good read for those with an existing interest. 

150 Pages of exercises, understandings and deeper appreciation.

Omens of Millennium -
Harold Bloom - Link
Morbid and quite negative.  Although I won't read it again, it's an interesting read as I found out just how 'off base' someone can be with their thoughts on the universe and the events that occur within it.  Certainly made me feel better about my logics. 

253 Pages of morbid, negative, old school fearful logic.

Your Shamanic Path -
Leo Rutherford - Link
This was my first read into Shamanism, and one that won't be the last.  I've in fact already bought another 3 books based on Shamanism.  The author explains and demonstrates various aspects of this ancient belief system.  Explaining the role of the Shaman in history as well as modern culture.  Also explores how traditions such as dance, sweat-tents and trance rituals continue to be a predominant feature in our culture even though most of us are totally oblivious to this.

237 Pages.  Not a difficult read, but it would definitely help if you are curious about Shamanism or have prior interests in it.

The Tao of Physics -
Fritjof Capri - Link
Not the easiest of books to read, but that's probably got more to do with my lack of understanding of Physics than anything else.  However, that was then and this is now.  Although at times it was slightly overwhelming with it's scientific backing, the information was explained quite well and the comparisons were made with an incredible amount of research as backing.  It is written from a scientific perspective, but his knowledge of the Eastern philosophies is quite thorough and he does present a very good documented case that defines the similarities very well.

The book itself is a written as a comparison of the connections that Eastern mysticism and modern physics share.  For someone such as myself who reads more 'mysticism' than 'physics', it was a refreshing change to see the 'other side' of the opinion.  Almost 400 pages, it's not a 'light read' by any means.  But within those pages is a good overview of historical facts relating to both sides of the story, backed up by enough references that would keep the most avid of readers busy for months.

The Tibetan Book of Living & Dying -
Sogyal Rinpoche - Link
Now, there are books that you read that take you on a journey, there are others that provide inspiration, some provide information and then there are those books that do change your life.  This is one of those books that does the latter, and in such a gentle and profound way.

The man who wrote this is was born & bred in Tibet and was literally brought up by one most accomplished Tibetan spiritual masters of this and the last century, Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro.  He then went on to receive a 'modern' education at the universities of Delhi and Cambridge.  A book that has been written to allow people to give their beliefs systems definition in relation to their place in this world as a living & dying human being.  An in depth look at the way Tibetan Buddhism views the living, dying and re-incarnation process and rejoicing in all stages of it.  A breathtaking read at 366 pages (plus extra's), at the end it will definitely be one you intend on reading again.

From a personal note, I found that on every page that was at least one paragraph that require re-reading a few times, not for lack of initial understanding, but because of the impact of the words and with each re-read the impact was more and more.

ADDED NOTE:
I've now read this book no less than 15 times and the one consistent thing I have found is that it provides me with something new every single time.  This has become a book of total enjoyment for me.  I do hope anyone who reads this gives it a look next time you're in a book shop.

Awakening the Buddha Within -
Lama Surya Das - Link
This book takes the reader on a journey into the perception of a Tibetan Lama.  But this isn't any 'normal' monk (if there is such a thing).  This gentleman was actually born in the United States, into a Jewish family and went to school & college like everyone else.  It was only through a physical journey and a bountiful serve of life's synchronicity did he find himself in intense meditation training sessions and learning the  scriptures.

Lama Surya Das takes the reader and shows them how to create a spiritual practise within their 'day-to-day' routines.  He describes how it IS possible and that literally the only thing stopping each person from reaching this elusive 'happiness' in their life is their perception OF life.  A book of 370 odd pages, it's a worthwhile read.  If you find spirituality an easy read you will find you can't put this book down.  If, however, spirituality books aren't your cup of tea your journey within this book will be extra special as life will be described to you in a way that you may just find not only simple, but addictive.

Awakening to the Sacred -
Lama Surya Das - Link
Same Author as 'Awakening the Buddha Within', this book is dedicated more to addressing the various challenges that life throws our way.  Walking the reader through taking a 'step back' from their supposed reality and providing a new set of viewing perspectives, Lama Surya Das tackles things like Mystical experiences, Faith and doubt, simplyfying, meditations and praying.  His words are eloquent with a forceful touch.

370 pages, this is definitely on par with 'Awakening the Buddha Within' as far as reading ease goes.  However, from a personal point of view, I found the message in this book not as 'empowering'.  It is a great follow on book, but to read it before 'Awakening the Buddha Within' might leave you wanting more.

Awakening the Mind, Lightening the Heart -
The Dalai Lama - Link
There are heaps of books that have been written by or about His Holiness the Dalai Lama. This one, written by the Dalai Lama, is incredibly simple considering the principles it puts across. As most know, he constantly puts honest thoughts behind his words and has the golden touch when it comes to his communication.  That has been continued in this book and makes this nothing short of beautiful. Enjoy the read.

Conversations With God - Trilogy (Link)
Friendship With God
Neale Donald Walsche  - Link
There are 6 books (that I know of) by this author. These books are put together in a series that you can step into at any time or read from the beginning.

The theories laid out and the explanations to back them up are concise and straight forward. Well worth the read for anyone interested in feeling good about themselves, bringing a little happiness into their lives as well as others, or just curious.

The Celestine Prophecy (Link)
The Celestine Prophecy - Experiential Guide
The Celestine Vision (Link)
The Tenth Insight (Link)
The Tenth Insight - Experiential Guide

The Secret of Shambhala -
James Redfield  - Link
The latest book in this series, 'Secrets of Shambhala', took all of 2 days to finish.  James Redfield has taken his journey and, over time, has given us step by step guide to living it.  This book awakens the mind to life's possibilities and takes you on a journey that will leave you changed, how much of a change is up to you.  The next step in a book series that has already been an incredible journey of un-imaginable experiences. As soon as I found out that this book had been released I raced out and grabbed it, then proceeding too finish it in one day's sitting.  Although I may be slightly biased, as it is one of my favourite books to recommend and read, I don't think anyone could read this book, whether a part of the series or by itself, and not enjoy it.

Pythagoras' Trousers -
Margaret Wertheim  - Link

Not the smallest of books, but definitely an interesting read.  As far as explaining the history of women in science this book has it all.  Although it does differ in some facts that I've read in other books, the overall guts of the book are great.  Also explaining some basic principles and experiments that were done over the last few centuries.  The author, I found, is somewhat biased and at times could be seen as discriminative towards males.  But that's ok, we've got broad shoulders.

252 Pages.  Worth a look, but can be a bit tiresome on occasions.

The Art of Happiness -
The Dalai Lama & Howard C. Cutler  - Link

Written in an 'Interview' style, reading this was an interesting time. On one hand you get an insight into His Holiness, on the other hand you also get an insight into the way Howard goes through what is said in his own mind. Definitely a worth-while read.

The Richest Man in Babylon -
George S. Classon  - Link
Millions of people have read and been helped by the famous 'Babylon Parables'. This is simply one of those. Easy reading and the sort of book once you pick up you won't want to put down. To this day i will still pick this book up, open to a page and read it like it's the first time. Very easy to understand principles, easy to follow reasoning.

Thick Face Black Heart -
Chin-Ning Chu  - Link
Liberating, powerful, energising, potential. These are only a few words that come to mind with this book. Chin-Ning Chu has given us a spiritually profound insight into the history and powerful structures and reasons behind the honour that is such a major part of Asian culture.

Edgar Cayce on Atlantis -
Edgar Evans Cayce  - Link
I'm sure the phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover" was quoted because of this book.  For those unaware of Edgar Cayce's work, look him up.  For there are no words that could truly allow you to understand this mans talents.

This book was created from collection of the various statements, stories and information sessions Edgar Cayce did on Atlantis and the various references around it.  A bit difficult to read for me personally, but none the less a great book.

Gods of the New Millennium -
Alan F. Alford  - Link
590 pages plus 62 pages of Appendices, Acknowledgements, Notes & Bibliography (60 pages) and of course the Index.  If there is anyone out there that is serious about there belief's, have an interest in ancient civilisations, curious about human history, like to read controversial material or are just interested in the 'real' reason the Great Pyramids exist, they should definitely read this.

It's a bit daunting when first starting as it's literally overflowing with references and verification.  However, by the time you've read 100 pages you are that far involved in the reason why the 'Principle Temple' was built so far away at Macchu Picchu that you have barely noticed the sun slip away.