Creating True Peace

July 14, 2003
If Vietnamese Zen monk and peace activist Nhat Hanh has said the same thing over and over again, it's because his message can't be restated too often in a violent world: peace can be found in every step, every breath. Nhat Hanh's books, many of which are transcriptions of talks, have ranged widely, from poetry to Buddhist commentaries to reflections on Jesus. This newest is filled with meditations and practices for individuals and families; since relatively few people choose monasticism as a lifestyle, the practice of household peace through deep listening and loving speech is eminently useable. Moreover, as Nhat Hanh shows in his stories and examples of working with people in conflict, such techniques underlie peace in the political arena as well. Like the Dalai Lama, Nhat Hanh possesses an extraordinary ability to speak simply about complex Buddhist teachings such as the true, transient nature of existence and how to act mindfully and compassionately in light of that view. His simplicity goes hand in hand with a challenging austerity, counseling against the consumption of things that lead to unmindfulness, like alcohol or "toxic" media products that feed inner "seeds," or tendencies, toward violence. Written in Nhat Hanh's characteristically soothing way, this is a practical and basic book of his profound and comprehensive teachings, especially for families with children. (Aug. 6)Forecast:Thich Nhat Hanh's books have sold over a million copies, and he is one of the most recognizable figures in the Buddhist world today. He will be touring the U.S. in August; excerpts will appear in
Yoga
Journal and
Spirituality and Health; and three book clubs have selected this title.

October 6, 2003
In narrating Nhat Hanh's spiritual guide, York did not have an easy task. The text is an accessible, solid introduction to Buddhist principles. Since Nhat Hanh is committed to what he calls "engaged Buddhism," he takes basic Buddhist practices (mindful breathing and walking meditation) and shows how they can transform not only a soul, but a family and even a nation. But can a narrator find drama in a series of meditation instructions? York does. While there is very serious drama in the text at times—Nhat Hanh was a young monk in Vietnam in the 1950s and '60s and brought his faith and his work with refugees right up to the front lines—this is a book of reflections, and York manages to find the poignancy in these reflections. Indeed, York's reading stays so close to the spirit of the text that listeners can practically hear the inflection of the monk himself. His voice is soothing, yet never hypnotic—a great match for a work that urges its listeners to wake up to their true natures. Simultaneous release with the Free Press hardcover (Forecasts, July 14).