The Zen Book

by Daniel Levin

The Zen mind sees everything as if for the first time, and it is in this mind that realization comes. The sayings in this book have been written, not to teach, but to remind the reader of what they already know.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Zen, Self Help, Buddhism

242 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2005

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Reviews

[Ann]

V interesting, good little stories to pick up. Lots to think about.

[Daphsam]

I enjoyed *Zen* by Daniel Levin, especially the peaceful feeling I had while reading it. One of my favorite parts of the book was the beautiful photography throughout. The photographs went so well with the passages and added to that feeling of slowing down for a moment and just being present with what I was reading.

I also liked that every page didn’t feel the same. Sometimes I would turn the page and find a short quote, while other times there would be a much longer story to sit with. I will say there were a few stories where I felt completely lost. I finished them wondering what I was supposed to take away from them, and I just didn’t connect with the greater meaning. But then I would come across another story that felt incredibly profound and made me stop and think for a while.

A theme I kept noticing throughout the book was impermanence, along with the idea of clearing the mind of judgment and trying to see things from another perspective. I found myself connecting with those ideas the most. I like books that can make me question the way I’m looking at something, even if it is only for a few moments.

For me, this isn’t necessarily a book I would sit down and read from beginning to end again. I think it works better as something you leave nearby, pick up when you need a quiet moment, and read a page or two at a time. Some passages might speak to you and others might not, and I think that’s okay.

Overall, it was a peaceful reading experience, and while I don’t know that I would reread the entire book, I’m glad I read it.

[Martin Denton]

This is a book of sayings and stories that illustrate, comment on, suggest, and of course therefore are the way of zen. They're accompanied by many photographs, quite a few of which I enjoyed looking at. The text I also enjoyed, and I marked a lot of it so that I will be able to come back to it when I need or want to, to be reminded of the wisdom it contains. Mind you, none of it is startling or different from stories or thoughts I've read before. But the whole point is to see it anew each time, and a book like this is designed to be enjoyed in just that way.

[Penny]

In a beautifully illustrated little book, the aphorisms and stories illustrating a Zen perspective range from quite good to pedestrian, so overall a disappointing read. I'm following up with stories about Suzuki Roshi, which seem far more pointed and revealing to me. This is one I will move along. Perhaps it will strike a more resonant chord in someone else.

[T Friendly]

There are some gems here

Nice book to read a little at a time and allow the words and parables to percolate and brew. I found quite a few of the stories too familiar and felt the book lacked originality.

[DJ]

Love this little book. I've read and reread. Each time I find another gem that is perfect for that moment.

[Maddie Peters]

Lovely.

[J. Justin]

I bought this book in San Diego years ago after a work conference. Every so often I pick it back up and quickly read through. Each time something new stands out. It's worth a look. You may find a few passages will speak to you as well.

[Brianna]

No matter your religious preference or denomination this book is a great reminder of self assurance, humility and over all awareness! As a very spiritual non-denominational follower of Christ, I loved it! It still comes in handy on a daily basis to reflect and remind me of the simple truths and helps me go to my "happy-place", if you will, to just "be" and attain and share inner peace!

Thank you Matt Davis for your recommendation and your investment into my knowledge and over all wellbeing!

[Jody Mena]

This was really wonderful! So much wisdom in such a little book of stories and sayings! Quick and easy to read, and it will really put things into perspective and put your mind at ease. No matter what your philosophy or religion, this is definitely worth reading!

[Suzie]

gorgeous photies and its like having a bag of pick and mix beside your bed

[Gary Feister]

A collection of "open anywhere" stories that illustrate where true peace in life and true balance can be found.

[Valerie]

I love this book so much! It's a self-help, spirituality, personality development, all rolled in one. It really delves into deeper meaning of life and reason for having overcoming difficulties. ;)

[Roze]

This book is one of those books that has no beginning or no end. Pick it up and start reading where ever.

[Anubis13]

Very enlightening

[J.A. Gilmer]

a sequence of quotidian sayings and parables


the book needs more to hold it together. i thought there would be themes,but it just kept streaming on and on.

[Lara]

This is an inspiring book .. Best quotes and lessons ever