Hello all,  I'm somewhat new to Zen and Buddhism but so far I think I've found something true and valuable.

I was wondering, though, about the advertisements for Carlos Castaneda's books on the home page.  From what I can tell these were selected by the editor as recommended books and not selected by Amazon's ad engines.

Castaneda was a disturbing figure.  In the 70's his books were the rage among New Age types but scholars took them apart and revealed much of them to be hoaxes and fabrications.  More disturbingly he built a cult of personality around him.  When he died several of his followers disappeared only to have their skeletons to be found years later in the desert, they either committed suicide or died trying to 'follow him'. 

I read one or two of his books when I was younger and found them inspiring but I would question whether it's wise to recommend them knowing what we now know.  Also even if you leave aside what we know of Castaneda are his books really compatitable with Zen?  His 'theology' seems centered on ignoring reality and retreating into a fantasy world where we can cultivate magical powers, speak with spirits, demons and other supernatural beings and in general escape reality.  From what I've explored regarding Zen, so far, it's message seems to be just the opposite.  Reality is not something that we can or should try to escape from and retreating into fantasy worlds only causes suffering.

Any seemingly perfect or imperfect one.

Regards,

Harry.

"Also even if you leave aside what we know of Castaneda are his books really compatitable with Zen?"

Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar. Did he write what he saw? probably. Is that dangerous to you? probably not. Is it compatitable with Zen? Only in terms of reality being in the eyes of the beholder. Never be surprized or fearfull of what you see or others see. MU

good night

When everybody agrees it is the the truth is the time to scared. MU