Wisdom from the Batcave: How to Live a Super, Heroic Life (Paperback)

by Cary A. Friedman (Author)
Key Phrases: Bruce Wayne, Detective Comics, Dick Grayson (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
... A fascinating read, and a real eye-opener. -- Ed Brubaker

... A fascinating read, and a real eye-opener. --Ed Brubaker

... A wonderful, scholarly, entertaining, and uplifting book. -- Greg Rucka

... A wonderful, scholarly, entertaining, and uplifting book. --Greg Rucka

... This is one terrific read. -- Mark Waid

... This is one terrific read. --Mark Waid

Friedman does a great job of showing ... we can be heroic in our own lives. I highly recommend this book. -- Michael Litwack, silverbulletcomics.com, September 22, 2006

One would think nothing new could be wrung from Batman. ... "Wisdom" could be the world's most enjoyable self-help manual. -- Eric Shoag, October 27, 2006

Product Description
Wisdom from the Batcave analyzes the life philosophy that emerges from Batman comic books. In 18 entertaining chapters, the Batman's example is used to teach profound truths. Focusing on relationships with self, others, and the larger community, the comic panels and Batman-family characters are utilized to illustrate how to live a better life.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Compass Books (October 28, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 097619662X
• ISBN-13: 978-0976196624
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 0.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #49,674 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Atomic batteries to power....turbines to speed...., December 7, 2006

By	S. Brown - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I love this book! Clear and concise, Rabbi Friedman lays down a compelling argument, not only that comic books can be a valuable reference for lessons in life, but that one needn't be talented, smart, or extraordinary in any way in order to achieve goals and inspire others.
With a telling style and subtle (mostly) humor, Rabbi Friedman ennumerates the many personal and interpersonal struggles that we encounter within our everyday lives, and how we can overcome them.
Read it, and be prepared to feel invigorated in yourself!

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Thoroughly enjoyable & enriching; not just for Batman fans , December 4, 2006

By	Eric Shoag "shrodog" (Boston, MA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This book is truly wonderful: inspiring, energizing, funny, and rewarding, and not just for Batman fans. Friedman takes examples from the caped crusader's adventures, identifies the qualities that make him heroic and admirable, and shows us how to apply them to our own lives. With this simple, brilliant premise he has constructed possibly the most enjoyable self-help book ever. Not at all preachy or tongue-in-cheek, "Wisdom" is refreshingly readable and, though delivering a serious and profound message, doesn't take itself too seriously. Liberally illustrated with scenes from key Batman comics over the years, this slim volume serves the dual purpose of showing us how to lead a more noble, fulfilling life, and reminding us (or showing us for the 1st time) why the Batman is such an important and enduring character. Endorsements from legendary and contemporary comic book pros Dennis O'Neil, Steve Englehart, Neal Adams, Roy Thomas, Joe Kubert, Chuck Dixon, Ed Brubaker and many more drive the point home: this book rules, and is well worth your time!

13 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars With great wisdom comes a great book.... , December 5, 2006

By	L. Mulman (Marblehead, MA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This slim, unassuming volume packs a major spiritual punch. Cary Friedman, never conceding to the darker forces of either the self-help or comic genre, offers a genuinely unique and sorely-needed take on the true meaning of heroism. Drawing inspiration from his clearly sincere enthusiasm for the Batman character, Friedman provides pragmatic yet profound suggestions for true life transformation. Fans of comics will love this book, but even those who have never picked up a comic book in their lives will find it deeply wise and (not insignificantly), very entertaining. An absolute must-read for all!!