The best audiobook I have bought so far

I love audiobooks, but lets be frank, they can be pretty variable!

This one takes the format of teachings recorded live in front of an audience. Jack Kornfield delivers these lectures in an accessible manner, with appropriate humor that never detracts from the content and indeed assists in delivering the messages. I sometimes find it hard to listen to audiobooks in American or other accents (I am dyslexic and have APD) but his voice is calming, never patronizing and as a result I have listened to this many times over.

My usual audiobook 'fodder' is comedy, dramatized stories or perhaps some general classics to pass long journeys. However, I bought this as an agnostic who has been exploring theology and belief systems, and remarkably this has already helped me through some difficult times. As a newcomer to Buddhism, this did not put me off by sounding elitist or too 'new world-y' (I tend to recoil when I feel I am being fed hippy nonsense). Instead, this has been genuinely enlightening and helpful and gets my highest recommendation.

I shall now continue to explore Buddhism and will certainly favor Kornfields work. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank him for making this and for the impact that it has already had upon me.

Instead, I am buying a further audiobook outside of my monthly plan

63 people found this helpful

buddhism for beginners

this book was excellent and i really enjoyed listening to it and learned a lot about the buddhist way of life from it. i enjoyed the narrator also found his voice calming and gentle, think this book would be excellent for anyone interested in buddhism or even just to listen to to destress and see the reality of life and whats important its a real eyeopener and life changer cant wait to listen to more from jack

16 people found this helpful

Genuine, warm, funny and compassionate

What did you like about this audiobook?

The author has a genuine, warm and caring approach to the subject matter born out of deep wisdom, knowledge and practice. The story of buddhism is delivered via a series of lectures on the important elements of the subject in front of a live audience. This really allows you to get a sense of the gentle, kind and humourous nature of the author, and the warmth and respect of the audience for the speaker.

How has the book increased your interest in the subject matter?

Yes, greatly. Deep, yet accessible insight in to the tradition with an eye to the Eastern roots of the teachings and a Western context for the practice.

Does the author present information in a way that is interesting and insightful, and if so, how does he achieve this?

The teachings are littered with stories, quotes and insight from great teachers and leaders from all traditions. Lots of deeply moving stories from the author's personal experience and amusing anecdotes keep the perfect balance between light heartedness and being deeply moved.

What did you find wrong about the narrator's performance?

Not a thing. Great insight to the teachings and flawless, caring and compassionate delivery. I've listened to the book a number of times, the author is now a part of my daily life as I can hear his words as I go through my day.

Do you have any additional comments?

Highly recommended!

6 people found this helpful

Funny, insightful and inspiring - non buddhist

I picked this up looking for some inspiration to get through a period of illness that was stretching my sanity.



The author is very funny and engaging and I learned more than a trick or two from it. I keep going back to it when I am looking for energy and ideas to help get me through difficult times. I have found it especially useful in dealing with chronic physical pain, even though it's not a meditation book.



I have always had an enquiring mind and much of this book rings true for me, even though I am not a religious person.



A really good listen that I think will help enrich your quality of life.

6 people found this helpful

Give it time. Its a hidden gem

The author and narrator clearly knows his subject and is very capable of expressing his opinions . He is clearly knowledgeable and can explain the concepts very well. Initially I was irritated by the narrator's tone, his way of speaking seemed insincere and came across as kind of affected. He speaks very slowly and in a softened tone, and at times it seemed like he wass deliberately trying to project an image of "inner peace"
I must admit however that as I listened to the audio book that it became apparent that I was being unfair and intolerant.
The content is excellent and the narration became more enjoyable as I got further into the book.
Why am I spending so much time discussing the narrator? Because I nearly gave up and returned the title on my initial reaction, and that would have been a huge mistake, I really enjoyed this title and relisten to it regularly. Do not dismiss this title of you find the narrator's tone affected. It's really not and you will miss out .

5 people found this helpful

A gentle introduction:

At first I found the lecture format a bit off-putting but as the author continued I found it increasingly pleasant and relaxing.

I would recommend this as a good, gentle introduction into buddhism and would certainly consider purchasing any further contributions by Jack Kornfield in this area.

10 people found this helpful

peaceful

Almost meditative, this audiobook is a great bedtime listen and feels almost therapeutic as well as informative. I learnt all the basic facets of Buddhism without feeling preached at or presdutusrd. You can take what you want from the content, and the delivery is calm and almost hypnotic as his voice kills you to sleep. Only problem wad I had to keep rewinding when I missed bits due to snoozing! A good intro.

2 people found this helpful

Beautiful

Loved it the narrator spoke beautifully I will definitely listen to this book again. It was insightful and interesting great for a person who doesn't have a background in Buddhism.

1 person found this helpful

WONDERFUL - YOU WON'T REGRET PURCHASING THIS!

A wonderful book which is well narrated, inspiring and helpful. I listened to a chapter on every bus journey and not only did Kornfield's voice calm me, but the teachings put a smile on my face. One to keep! LOVE IT!

1 person found this helpful

Inspirational

I found the presentation of the information to be very inspirational - it offers something to aspire to in your own life. Well presented - at times funny - all very informative. Thank you.

1 person found this helpful