Zen Questions

by Robert Allen

Answers basic questions about Zen Buddhism along with anecdotes, stories, and meditations.

Genres: Nonfiction, Philosophy, Zen, Religion

256 pages, Hardcover

First published April 30, 2002

Reviews

[Gor “Gorki” Laughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A near perfect little tome. Robert was a great writer and certainly he’s missed. A natural successor to Alan Watts but speaking in a straightforward Scottish manner. There’s nothing to be found online at all of exactly how and when he passed and it was a sad surprise to realise he’d gone. A proper 21st century Brit Zen master.

[Yousseif Abdellatif · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not gonna lie, Zen Questions made me look at the junk drawer in my own kitchen differently. Allen, Robert digs into why we hoard stuff, from old chargers to ugly mugs, and the chapter about a woman who couldn't toss her late husband's coat made me tear up a little over a pile of clutter. The book gets a touch repetitive in the middle. For anybody who's ever said "I might need that." Skip it if you want a hardcore decluttering plan.

[Jennifer Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I have several books on zen koans, and this is very readable, and explains well.

[Gen Mos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written without a lot of mumble jumble words that know one really understands. Allows for a simple obtainable understanding of zen for those who apply a little awareness to their daily journey.

[Ryan Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very concise book that makes ideas about zen very accessible. I love the format of this book too.

[Yousseif Abdellatif · Rating 3 out of 5]

Zen Questions hits home because Robert Allen demonstrates that real resistance isn't about grand gestures, but refusing to internalize official lies.

[Malena Lott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. The simple q&a format, engaging writing and beautiful illlustrations made it a wonderful end-of-day read. It answered several questions I had regarding zen and enlightenment. The book found me in the shoe aisle at TJ Maxx. I kid you not. I knew I was meant to read it. Will reference it as I write Type A to Zen.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trying to get passed your Western upbringing? This will help.