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There Is No God And He Is Always With You: A Search For God In Odd Places (2013)

by Brad Warner(Favorite Author)

4.02 of 5 Votes: 2

ISBN

1608681831 (ISBN13: 9781608681839)

languge

English

genre

Nonfiction

publisher

New World Library

review 1: A good but not great addition to Warner's writings on Buddhism, where some passages of great intelligence and insight contrast with others of irritating shallowness. (Can we have a ban on citing Malcolm Gladwell as an expert on anything from now on, because it's plain he isn't one?) But on the whole it's worth the time and effort, even if it bulks tiny next to "Sit Down And Shut Up" or "Hardcore Zen".
review 2: This is kind of your typical book on Buddhism, in that if you're looking for answers they aren't in there. (Think "koan".) I didn't expect any answers. (The answer lies within grasshoppa')But this book has a befuddled voice to it. There are all kinds of circular logic and distractions going on. There were parts of this book that were more esoteric than a... moren Alan Watts book. It feels like Warner is working the answer out in his head as he writes and no one does him the kindness of editing afterwards. And, alas, the thing that I so loved about his previous books (I've read them all), has finally become irritating. He calls himself a Soto Zen priest, but then he goes to lengths to convince the reader how he's "different" and "cooler"...and he's a rebel and wear's his robes only when he wants to etc... While I understand that being a Buddhist is a very individual experience, when you take vows you are saying that you prescribe to certain tenets. OK, I get that you're a rebel. But he finally has me questioning if anyone else would describe him as a Soto Zen priest or no. He sets himself apart and describes other priests/monks/leaders as persecuting him and being at odds with him. Maybe there's a reason for this, IDK. However, I still believe, Warner has A LOT of wisdom and insight to share, but you have to pay very close attention for it in this book. It's work.I wouldn't suggest this be your first book on Buddhism. Your brain will explode or you'll throw it at a wall. I would highly suggest Hardcore Zen or Sit Down, Shut Up to be your first. If you're not new to Buddhism, you've already read Warner more than likely. This is more of "Buddhism According to Brad"...please keep that in mind (as with any book on this subject). less

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