Customer Reviews

Shaman in a 9 to 5 World

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The tone and delivery of this book is very different for the author, but I really like it. There's a debth here, and a "feeling" beneath the words that says this book was guided and inspired from something very real to the writer. This makes reading much more interesting and inspiring too! The activities, philosophy, and presentation is all very practical considering modern life, and very earth-responsible. Possibly Telesco's best book ever.

I am not sure where or why the last reviewer felt so negatively as I have found much of the information in Ms. Telesco's book confirmed by other sources including Funk & Wagnall. IMHO the focus of this book is on the "doing" (which I like) -- there's a real thrust to integrate the philosophy with daily life ... great information that seems to have been very heavily researched and more importantly LIVED in daily life (as opposed to just reading about it).

I had the pleasure of meeting the author and hearing her speak. She is a well spoken woman who is easy to understand and relates well to everyone. This book has lots of good information and is easy to understand. It has step by step guidance that leads you along the way. I read it in one evening and will use it for references again and again. Very detailed, but easy to understand. Has wonderful information that will be usable again and again. I am glad I purchased the book!

Ms. Telesco should spend more time in researh; or limit her writing to subjects she knows something about.

Page 14 "the term "shaman" comes from the Tungus people of Manchuria."

Uh... ahem... er... I have read 100s of books regarding Shamanism, and the various religions based on Shamanism. The Tungus people lived in Siberia; not Manchuria.

There IS some good material in this book, but there is so much new age pap to wade through it isn't worth the effort.

If you are looking for better Shamanic books; I can recommend the following.

"Totems: The Transformative Power Of Your Personal Animal Totem" Brad Steiger

"Shamanism: As A Spiritual Practise For Daily Life" Tom Cowan

"Shamanic Experience" Kenneth Meadows

"Shamanism" Gordon MacLellan (Very good introduction with exercizes; but limited in scope)

"The Way Of The Shaman" Michael Harner

"Shamanism" Mircea Eliade (I only recommend this book in the historic aspects of Shamanism. This book is of limited value to practising Shamanism.)

I am currently reading "Modern Shamanic Living: New Explorations Of an Ancient Path" by Evelyn C. Rysdyk, and will probably add it to the recommended list of Shamanic books.

I encourage questions or comments about my reviews via E-Mail. Two Bears

Wah doh Ogedoda (We give thanks Great Spirit)

This book is a good introduction to shaminism with a distinctly Wiccan flavor. For example, the author discusses the four directions and elements, which is really derived mostly from Western magical traditions (although some Native American tribes, as I understand it, also utilize directions) The works of Michael Harner and Mircea Eliade might do better for an explaination and instruction in the techiniques of South American and other indigeneous peoples. Nonetheless, this is a good book for those who Witches who want to inject some shamanic techniques into their practice.

For the serious student of Shamanism who doesn't want any New Age or Wiccan overtones, this book isn't for you.

For those Pagans and Wiccans or Urban Shamans out there, this is an excellent book providing many insights, activities and rites for keeping in touch with the Spiritual Divine in a busy urban 9 to 5 life.

While I don't agree with every facet of this book and Telesco's approach, this book offers many great starting points. Its well worth reading.