The Challenges of Ivan Illich: A Collective Reflection

I want to agree with the review below and just say that whenever I read any of Ivan's books [I keep re-reading them!] I feel more real and definitely feel better about living in this world. 'Challenges' is a great collection by some of Ivan's friends. Some of the articles are a bit intellectually weighty but there are a few really accessible chapters that newcomers will understand. As John W. Verity suggested - try and read Ivan's earlier stuff - its very readable and VERY relevant right now. His work disturbs, motivates, inspires a sense of peace and acceptance - And despite his largely accessible writing style he's actually hard to pin down at times, but this is what makes him cool. I get the sense that he'd 'accept' ANY predictable label one would throw at him with a big cheeky smile on his cute face. I really wish I'd had the chance to meet him and cuddle him whether he liked it or not. He would no doubt have told me whether he wanted me around or not, but at least I would have got to touch him...!