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Chronicles of Tao: The Secret Life of a Taoist Master – A Spiritual Odyssey from Revolutionary China to Golden Gloves Boxing in America
For the first time in one volume—an extraordinary spiritual odyssey of the making of the Taoist master Kwan Saihung. Born into a wealthy family in a remote province of China, Kwan defies his parents' wishes and enters into the rigorous and mysterious discipline of Taoist practice. Renamed "Little Butterfly" by his Taoist masters, he survives the upheaval of the Japanese occupation, and the later the Chinese Revolution, all the while becoming adept in the Taoist arts. Eventually his inner and outer journey lead him to America, where he becomes a Golden Gloves boxer and martial arts instructor.
Part adventure, part parable, Chronicles of Tao travels through a labyrinth of enigmatic Taoist practice, marital arts discipline, and international adventure.
Part adventure, part parable, Chronicles of Tao travels through a labyrinth of enigmatic Taoist practice, marital arts discipline, and international adventure.
476 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1993
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 31, 2013
I must say this book is quite amazing. A lot of people talk about whether Kwan is real, or not but I don't think that is the point of the book, and it has no effect on my rating. What I've taken from this book is a life lesson. There is so much Taoist wisdom in this book that I am going to reread it instantly. I've tried to read a few books about Taoism and never finished them because they were convoluted. This book explains Taoism clearly within the context of Kwan's life. I highly recommend this book for anybody interested in Taoism.
January 11, 2014
I originally selected this book because I wanted an overview of Taoism, one of the 3 major religious philosophies in China, Buddhism and Confucianism being the other two. The other options for learning about Taoism were dry texts that were literal translations of the writings of the philosopher Lao Tzu and while interesting to browse, the interpretation of these texts into a working knowledge of Taoism would have taken years of study on my part. The Chronicles of Tao follows the life of Taoist master Kwan Saihung from his birth within an affluent family in imperial China to modern times and demonstrates Taoism by example in his deeds and life's history.
What I did not expect was such a fascinating and at sometimes fantastic journey through China and the Chinese subculture in the US that was thoroughly riveting and made me want to pick up the book as soon as I got home at night. From martial arts scenes that evoke fantastic feats of physical stamina and acrobatics, to his journey in becoming a master, which included years as a novice student, rigorous physical training, and later his role as an assassin for his temple to bring in a wayward monk, this was a riveting book.
I would say all who have an interest not only in Taoism but who fancy a historical romp through China as seen through the eyes of a Taoist master, this is a must read.
What I did not expect was such a fascinating and at sometimes fantastic journey through China and the Chinese subculture in the US that was thoroughly riveting and made me want to pick up the book as soon as I got home at night. From martial arts scenes that evoke fantastic feats of physical stamina and acrobatics, to his journey in becoming a master, which included years as a novice student, rigorous physical training, and later his role as an assassin for his temple to bring in a wayward monk, this was a riveting book.
I would say all who have an interest not only in Taoism but who fancy a historical romp through China as seen through the eyes of a Taoist master, this is a must read.
May 23, 2012
Purports to be the biographical memoir of a Taoist monk; in reality, it is an attempt at wuxia fiction by a Chinese-American author from San Francisco.
Earlier editions had illustrations of pre-WWII temples and people who lived in the Wudang Mountain region. Those illustrations have been removed from the current edition, as they were found to have been based on photographs rather than anyone's direct recollection.
I found some interesting comments about this book and its author on the Tao Bums website that are, I believe, accurate, though not flattering to the author.
To me, it seems as if the author cobbled this together from bits and pieces of martial arts films and actual Chinese wuxia tales as well as from some Western texts on Taoism.
If I could, I would give this book a "minus" rating.
Edit: see this link for further info - http://www.thetaobums.com/index.php?/...
Earlier editions had illustrations of pre-WWII temples and people who lived in the Wudang Mountain region. Those illustrations have been removed from the current edition, as they were found to have been based on photographs rather than anyone's direct recollection.
I found some interesting comments about this book and its author on the Tao Bums website that are, I believe, accurate, though not flattering to the author.
To me, it seems as if the author cobbled this together from bits and pieces of martial arts films and actual Chinese wuxia tales as well as from some Western texts on Taoism.
If I could, I would give this book a "minus" rating.
Edit: see this link for further info - http://www.thetaobums.com/index.php?/...
July 25, 2015
This book was the book my all time favorite English teacher chose to use for my Senior English class. We read this book over a semester and dissected it so completely that I can honestly credit him and this book for making me want to be a writer. While I will admit this book is not for everyone, but it means a lot to me and will forever be significant to my life. Thank you Tomars!
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January 11, 2013
Awesome, awesome book! If you're interested in martial arts or Eastern Philosophy at all I'd definitely recommend it. The binding says it's biographical, but it's more wuxia in its presentation. Lots and lots of things are very obviously probably not true, but are there more in service of a story that works to teach many valuable lessons.
In addition: if you're my friend and don't think you understand me all too well a lot of the concepts and ideals in this book are in line with my outlook of the world.
In addition: if you're my friend and don't think you understand me all too well a lot of the concepts and ideals in this book are in line with my outlook of the world.
April 28, 2009
A good story. Offers the reader a glimpse into the tumultuous period of war and unrest which dominated the first half of the 20th century in China. More interesting to me however was the way the author used the personal experiences of the main character to explain Taoist thought and practices. My interest in martial arts was also a big reason for liking this one. Its packed full of training in various martial arts as well as in mediatation and Taoist alchemy/medicine.
Although the author claims this is the true story of his masters life in China I think it is safe to say that there is a rather large amount of embellishment going on here. Some of the more fantastical scenes will catch you off guard if you are expecting a completely realistic or accurate account. If you can get past the hallucinations and fantasy (which I actually enjoyed) it is a really fun story and an easy read. If you enjoy martial arts, traditional Chinese culture, and Taoist philosophy, then this is the book for you.
Although the author claims this is the true story of his masters life in China I think it is safe to say that there is a rather large amount of embellishment going on here. Some of the more fantastical scenes will catch you off guard if you are expecting a completely realistic or accurate account. If you can get past the hallucinations and fantasy (which I actually enjoyed) it is a really fun story and an easy read. If you enjoy martial arts, traditional Chinese culture, and Taoist philosophy, then this is the book for you.
March 5, 2010
This is the life story of young boy's journey as he leaves his wealthy family in imperial china, becomes a Taoist monk on Hua Mountain, matures and leaves the mountain, and experiences many fascinating trials. In addition to his lessons and growth in Taoism and Hua Quan Kung Fu, his relationship with his master is a central theme.
This book is especially important to me because it presents the experience of Hua Quan Kung Fu, which I'm presently training under one of the only existing schools of this style in North America. This style is one of the styles with the oldest and most central lineage in China. However, not much material is available on it.
This book teleports the reader into a time and a culture that is mysterious, mystical, and exciting. For me, it was a real page-turner.
This book is especially important to me because it presents the experience of Hua Quan Kung Fu, which I'm presently training under one of the only existing schools of this style in North America. This style is one of the styles with the oldest and most central lineage in China. However, not much material is available on it.
This book teleports the reader into a time and a culture that is mysterious, mystical, and exciting. For me, it was a real page-turner.
November 29, 2015
This novels is historical fiction although it claims otherwise... it flows really well and all the scenes and action are really well played, my only cripe with the story is the main character is weak and doesn't evolve much through it all. Hes the same simple stubborn daoist you meet in the begginging.
But if you wish to focus just on the daoism culture, philosophy,environment,politics,martial arts side you will not be disappointed. I would recommend this book.
But if you wish to focus just on the daoism culture, philosophy,environment,politics,martial arts side you will not be disappointed. I would recommend this book.
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January 12, 2017This may or may not be the story of someone I know, but it is a touching, terrifying and humbling story of a Taoist whose Master requires him to persevere through most of a century in discovering the nature of his existence. He is a human being who feels yearning, anger, compassion and violence. He searches through teachers, scripture, meditation and most dramatically, the martial arts. He is still alive today at age 97 and, I assume, still searching, but we don't talk about it.
November 10, 2014
It was like reading through a coming of age martial arts movie. It reads more like a novel than a biography with the added benefit of subtle Taoist teachings and Chinese history and culture. Very interesting!
February 28, 2013
Die Lehre des Weges
Der Daoismus hat etwas Magisches an sich. Die Verbindung von Alchemie mit Religion, von wundersamen Fähigkeiten mit Kampfkunst, von Körperzentrierung und einem überfließenden Götterpantheon zieht viele von der Gesellschaft desillusionierte Menschen an, auch im Westen. Neben denen, die mehr Spiritualität im Leben suchen, gibt es aber auch Leute, die sich vom kulturellen Standpunkt aus für Daoismus interessieren, oder die sich einfach etwas vom geheimnisvollen fernen Osten unterhalten lassen wollen. Alle drei Zielgruppen werden etwas in diesem Buch finden; man erfährt in jedem Fall aber sehr viel über den Daoismus, seine Ziele, Wege und Rituale.
Die vorhandenen Rezensionen gehen stark auf den religiösen Bildungscharakter des Buches ein. Dies mag für Leser, die danach suchen, wohl auch gegeben sein - für alle anderen liest sich das Buch wie eine historische Biografie mit einem guten Schuss Fantasy. Die wundersamen Fähigkeiten der Taoisten vom Berg Hua werden faszinierend geschildert; ernsthaft als wahre Beschreibung annehmen (wie der Autor dies möchte) kann das aber wohl nur ein Gläubiger, der kein Problem mit 150 Jahre alten Menschen, Geisterkommunikation und Energiestößen hat.
Das Paperback hat etwas grobes, sich komisch anfühlendes Papier und einen schlabberigen Einband, der sich schnell eindreht. Mit angenehm viel Weißraum versehen ist das Druckbild.
Fazit: Ein unterhaltsamer und gleichzeitig lehrreicher Roman, der etwas zum Predigen neigt.
Der Daoismus hat etwas Magisches an sich. Die Verbindung von Alchemie mit Religion, von wundersamen Fähigkeiten mit Kampfkunst, von Körperzentrierung und einem überfließenden Götterpantheon zieht viele von der Gesellschaft desillusionierte Menschen an, auch im Westen. Neben denen, die mehr Spiritualität im Leben suchen, gibt es aber auch Leute, die sich vom kulturellen Standpunkt aus für Daoismus interessieren, oder die sich einfach etwas vom geheimnisvollen fernen Osten unterhalten lassen wollen. Alle drei Zielgruppen werden etwas in diesem Buch finden; man erfährt in jedem Fall aber sehr viel über den Daoismus, seine Ziele, Wege und Rituale.
Die vorhandenen Rezensionen gehen stark auf den religiösen Bildungscharakter des Buches ein. Dies mag für Leser, die danach suchen, wohl auch gegeben sein - für alle anderen liest sich das Buch wie eine historische Biografie mit einem guten Schuss Fantasy. Die wundersamen Fähigkeiten der Taoisten vom Berg Hua werden faszinierend geschildert; ernsthaft als wahre Beschreibung annehmen (wie der Autor dies möchte) kann das aber wohl nur ein Gläubiger, der kein Problem mit 150 Jahre alten Menschen, Geisterkommunikation und Energiestößen hat.
Das Paperback hat etwas grobes, sich komisch anfühlendes Papier und einen schlabberigen Einband, der sich schnell eindreht. Mit angenehm viel Weißraum versehen ist das Druckbild.
Fazit: Ein unterhaltsamer und gleichzeitig lehrreicher Roman, der etwas zum Predigen neigt.
May 1, 2012
I read this book when I was fifteen or so, and have lost it since then. I would read it again if I had it. About a boy who is orphaned and or abandoned traveling across China to stay with different masters. It is mainly about simple living, forces of nature and how Taoist masters of old utilized, studied and comprehended the ways and methods of animals and the world around them. Very good read from what I remember.
January 30, 2013
Read this in the early 2000's when I was heavily influenced by Taoism, and mucking about with Tai Chi and Chi Kung. The first third blew me away, the second less so, and the third(third) least of all, but by then I was so engrossed and invested in Saihung's story that it didn't matter. I'd love to read it again, but it's just too long. They should make into a movie(a trilogy mayhap?), so I can enjoy it again(just me - no one else). Just saying.
August 1, 2016
A good story about a young boy on the path of Taoist mastery. The book is loaded with obscure masters and odd characters. The middle section of the book gets exciting when the duels and quests begin. There are some sudden changes in narrative direction which are forgivable, but the main let down of the book is the near total absence of character development.
September 26, 2007
If you are into martial arts, particularly Chinese martial arts, you will really enjoy this book. It follows the life of a taoist monk (?) from childhood through his old age. It's supposed to be a true story...you be the judge.
March 3, 2009
This is remarkably good. I enjoyed the tale and having it unfold with the respect to the fullness of nature. I was brought from appreciative laughter to bowing my head in a show of respect. I suspect you will too.
May 17, 2015
I love this book. It's well written, entertaining and so profound that you can read it at many different levels. If you've had spiritual experiences you'll get even deeper insights from the author's adventures. It's a must read!
March 30, 2007
I have no idea how much of this book is non-fiction. I suppose some of it must be. In any event, it's a great story.
January 4, 2008
Supposedly true, this book is great!!! A great story, a great representation of the fascinating aspects of taoism... a novel to really get lost in!
June 7, 2008
I love Kungfu movies. I also love to read. Now combine those two mediums into one, and what do you get? This book. I love it!
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June 19, 2008Loved this journey. A great book that can be read in short sessions. The content is meant to be pondered.
April 3, 2013
Love this book! Second read of it and can't get enough. Highly recommended if you're looking for a good story of Pre-War China, or a great read on Tao/Daoism.
July 30, 2008
Man...this book tells the awesome story of a Taoist monk who goes through all sorts of adventures on his way to finding himself.
December 25, 2008
a great book to read.
January 8, 2009
Little gems of worldly knowledge sprinkled throughout this epic tale of one man's life.
March 19, 2009
Secret life of a Taoist master. Some very interesting parts. A few very good teachings and lessons. Mostly story though. Supposedly true, which would make it much cooler.
July 30, 2010
If you like martial arts and Chinese epics.
May 23, 2012
Beautiful book about the realities of finding and following a spiritual path.
October 28, 2014
Много яка книжка!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews