Zen Fables for Today

I was extremely pleased with this book. It is not meant to be a profound work on Buddhism, but is introductory in nature. I would never have purchased or read a book on this subject, but a friend introduced it to me. I read one fable and I was hooked. I couldn't stop reading it. It makes me want to explore Zen at a deeper level. I liked it so much I am ordering 4 now to share with family and friends.

Ah, how these stories are inspitaiional and equally lively in humor and simplicity to understand. Prefect gift, even for those who do not believe in Zen. In fact, some stories are easier to love if you're not a member of Zen. The stories are (in agreement with a past reviewer) bearing a strange similarity with Chicken Soup for the Soul. My favorite story is one of a wise Zen frog explaining to a younder frog how life works. It is cute and has a strange twist at the ending that makes you laugh and think at the same time. Many of the stories are like that. Richard McLean seems to have done his homework on religion before he made the book. It is at a cheap price, too, an added bonus for all. There are a large number of stories and all are full of enlightenment. Wonderful for those who are doing spiritual exploration.Illustrations are also good because they capture each story in a subtle form that reminds me of Asian art in many ways. The author knows how to use eloquent words to sell the stories and I can almost gauruntee that you will find at least one story that will make you want to change your life.

I found this book both inspirational, and rewarding. These are the kind of stories I would read to my children. I plan on buying several, to give as gifts. It has something for everyone and really makes you reevaluate your life without being preachy...

I have found that many books on Zen are written for other Zen practioners. Unfortunately, many of these books seek to dazzle the reader with the paradoxes of Zen rather than stripping away the intellectualization and lay bare the simple (and beautiful) essence of this ancient philosophy. Most important, this unassuming book suggests valuable parables for today, for our everyday lives. Segments have been reprinted in local Zen journals and it is in use in seminars. Within its simplicity lies is power; within its currentness lies its usefulness for today. Like a box of chocolates, it is best savored slowly... a bite at a time.

I entered my comments on this book on March 18,1998. I rated it an 8. I've continued to read it one fable at a time. I'm re-rating it as a 10. Don't let the low cost fool you. Buy this one and you can have a full Zen library with this single, beautifully illustrated, and very portable volume. Spend a little time with it. I think you'll be comfortable with the idea that Rich McLean is one of the enlightened ones. Despite being an occidental!