The Zen Monkey and the Lotus Flower: 52 Stories to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Thoughts, Find Happiness, and Live Your Best Life

This is not a usual book for me. It was recommended as a book club read and I was curious. I have practised yoga for many years and am familiar with some of the basic principles of mindfulness and meditation but was interested to learn more. This book was printed in 2024. It has 157 pages an contains 52 short stories. Each story is usually around a page long and is followed by a similar length explanation. There are several principles that are explored and they are looked at in different ways. That can lead to a feeling of repetition if you read them quickly - read the stories gradually (as they are meant to be read) and the messages are gently reinforced. There are important life lessons here which are worth taking time to consider. I got drawn into the messages and am sure that this will stay with me for some time. I'm not sure this book will change my life but it will encourage any reader to approach problems in a slightly different way. It might also promote a change of attitude. The book is perfect to dip in and out of. It actually suggests you read one story each week - this would give time to ponder and digest before moving on. The stories are very easy to read and the explanations are clear. As you progress through the book there are some useful tips that can be used in your life - one example being "try to praise or encourage at least one person every day", this is not hard to do and makes a big difference to both people. Each story starts with an illustration that perfectly sums up the subject of the tale. It is worth pausing on the drawing to consider its artistic quality before moving on.

I absolutely love this book. Part of my daily routine now to read one of these amazing buddist stories. Helps reflect on life's struggles. 10/10

Amazing, easy to understand and I like reading one story at the time to have time tinking about it and bring it to my life .

Very good book,makes you think very useful.A very good read.

Really enjoyed the stories

A fantastic little book which has very thought provoking short stories, a must read. It really helps with mindfulness.

Great little book,ideal gift

I loved it. The meanings are awesome.

Great book, I recommend to get it.

Used this everytime for meditation guide to students. They all enjoy the story very much.

Absolutely love this book!!!! The book conveys important values and makes you more calm, relaxed and happy. It gives you new ideas and lets you look at life in another way. Stories are very short; I read one each day and have learned so much from it. The stories are well-written and let you reflect. After each story there is a section that tells you how the story applies to today’s day and age and what we can learn from it; helps you understand the underlying message. I can always somehow apply it to my life in some way. I think this book would help every person at every stage of life. Excellent book for all ages.

Its a nice little book, Each story is 2 pages long (max) and with nice Zen philosophies behind each one. After each story there are a few words from the author to explain; what to take from each story and what to practice more with this story in mind. This is the reason I gave it 3 stars. I find the notes from the author to much and it would be better to just to read the story and see where my own mind takes me.

Absolutely love this book. Each story is a simple read with a powerful message. I plan on buying more copies for gift giving.