A young woman searches to find herself and joins a traditional Zen monastery in the early days of Zen in America and becomes a serious hard-core practitioner for over half her life with one teacher who guides her through difficulties and joys only to lose everything when her Zen master becomes the center of a scandal which forces her to come to terms with love and loss.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Mueller invites readers to walk alongside her as she battles to discover meaning in life, through an enticing narrative chronicling her steps towards practicing Zen, set against the larger context of history and its enduring impact on her journey. From America's terrifying entrance into the Vietnam War to Mueller's experience gambling at a casino with a Buddhist Roshi, readers will be riveted by this offering.
Prose: Mueller is a capable writer, employing an almost conversational style that welcomes readers while providing them intimate glimpses into her storied life. Her skill at detailing her own experiences in light of American history—and, more specifically, women's role in it—is a stunning backdrop for this memoir.
Originality: The stories Mueller shares will entertain, provoke deep thought, and gently encourage readers to implement her wisdom when reflecting on their own life journeys.
Character/Execution: Mueller has a gift for penning gripping tales, as she strikes a nearly-flawless balance between spiritual discovery/meaning and the traditions of this world.
Date Submitted: October 01, 2024
