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We turn to these time and time again, always finding something new to discover.
Be Here Now
By Ram Dass
First published in 1971, this book set millions on a path to enlightenment. It’s as hippie as it gets—text printed sideways on brown paper, with trippy sketches. American consciousness raising starts here. PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE
Who is the living writer you most wish you could meet?
“Ram Dass. He changed my life in the early 1970s (yes, I’m that old!)”
—A Spirituality & Health reader
Eat Pray Love
One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India, and Indonesia
By Elizabeth Gilbert
This 2006 memoir about a broken heart, a ripped-open soul, and how it all comes back together on a trip around the world clearly resonated with many. It’s sold more than 10 million copies. RIVERHEAD BOOKS
The Essential Rumi
By Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi
The most widely read poet in America is a man born in 13th-century Turkey. A Sunni Muslim and scholar, Rūmī is beloved for his mystic poetry. Coleman Barks is the translator of numerous Rūmī works and has studied Sufism since 1977. HARPERONE
Reader Pick: The Essential Rumi
“No matter what page I turn to with a question in mind, I find a new perspective to help me move forward with his beautiful words.”
The Power of Now
A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment
By Eckhart Tolle
Tolle offers a contemporary perspective on traditional Eastern teachings and counts Oprah Winfrey as a fan. “I keep Eckhart’s book at my bedside. I think it’s essential spiritual teaching,” she posted on Oprah.com. NEW WORLD LIBRARY
Writing Down the Bones
Freeing the Writer Within
By Natalie Goldberg
Combining Zen meditation with writing practice, Goldberg created a must-have guide for the creative process. SHAMBHALA PUBLICATIONS
A Return to Love
Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles
By Marianne Williamson
“We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God.” The best-selling author and lecturer has penned many excellent books, but this one is the most-oft quoted. HARPERCOLLINS
Reader Pick: A Return to Love
“I use this as my compass when I have lost my focus and revert to old beliefs and ways of living. She is the first person who taught me to live through love, not fear.”
When Things Fall Apart
Heart Advice for Difficult Times
By Pema Chödrön
The beloved American Tibetan Buddhist nun shares how moving toward, not away from, painful situations can transform and open our hearts. SHAMBHALA PUBLICATIONS
Reader Pick: When Things Fall Apart
“Life is full of constant change, and we humans always struggle to deal with it. Even when we think we’ve finally climbed a mountain, we find another in front of us. This book teaches us how to be good climbers!”
Autobiography of a Yogi
By Paramahansa Yogananda
Generations of seekers—including George Harrison and Steve Jobs—have sung the praises of this 1946 book, written by a Kriya Yoga master. CRYSTAL CLARITY
At Home in the World
Stories and Essential Teachings from a Monk’s Life
By Thich Nhat Hanh
A renowned Buddhist monk, poet, and human rights activist, Thich Nhat Hanh shares essays that span his life, bringing insights and lessons. PARALLAX PRESS
The Alchemist
By Paulo Coelho
Covering personal discovery, this nearly 30-year-old book has sold 80 million copies and was picked by PBS as a top 100 Great American Read. HARPERCOLLINS
