Five Star Reviews
From a reader from Germany
Blistered Feet - Blissful mind keeps its promises. It contains many insightful stories of two monks going on Tudong, the buddhist pilgramage. As the monks meet mostly christian people along the way, most of the stories show how universally applyable the teachings of the Buddha and insights are. The monks meet and talk to english school children, a widow, a biker-gang, christian monks and various other very different persons with all sorts of lifestyles, yet the monks always see a way to relate and sort of become friends with them. If you are interested in buddhism or consider yourself one, this book will give you not really much in terms of theoretical teachings but a great read on lived practice during Tudong (not inside a monastery).
And perhaps because of this exact nature of the book, I would recommend it for non-buddhists, too as long as they are openminded! Exept for the word Ajahn (which means teacher), practically no "buddhist"-terms are used and the writing style is easy to follow even if you're a non-native english speaker like me.
Openmindedness is certainly the key. The lifestyle of the pilgramage-monks seems so radically different and sometimes so torturing, ie when they can't eat anything after noon or have to sleep under a broken down truck, freezing for the whole night. It is just when you follow the stories and see how much beauty, insight and peace evolves around this lifestyle that you understand the worth of their training. The stories are full of humanity and compassion and it's incredible, how two buddhist monks "survive" in a mainly christian country where the sight of buddhist monks is largely new to the people. In the end, the book shows that their journey is not about a buddhist lifestyle or a christian lifestyle, but a life that is full of kindness, compassion, peace and wisdom. And the rough way to wisdom from the perspective of the younger monk is quite often not just making one smile, but laugh, too!
A big plus for the beautiful colored illustrations in the book and the good writing style. It all helps to really imagine what the situations there have been like.
------------------------------------------------
"What a delightful read and a charming glimpse into the daily cycle of two Buddhist monks on a Tudong. Sometimes we are given a not-so-appealing insight into some closed-off minds amongst the general public, who can be materialistic and occasionally extremely ignorant. This is, happily, balanced with reports of generous and selfless souls too. As the monks are forbidden ask for help or sustenance, their experiences are sometimes raw, but the incidents with awkward people and situations clearly show that there is something about their simple way of life and their kindness and wise manners which can be uplifting and even life-changing for people they meet. They are fulfilled and calm on a deep level and they radiate this peace and share knowledge if they are given a chance.
A fascinating tale, told with maturity, sensitivity and realism. Extremely enjoyable and recommended to any one wishing for an appealing insight into what makes these gentle people tick, and what might be so alluring about that quest for inner peace." - 'sianw100'
----------------------------------------------
"This is the story of two monks, in the UK,who set out to walk through the countryside in the South of England. They only have their robes and alms bowls and they rely completely on the compassion and generosity of those they meet along the way. Based on real experiences, this story shows how relevant a 2,500 year old tradition can be today. One doesn’t have to be particularly interested in Buddhism to enjoy reading this book, it can be enjoyed by anyone, but one cannot fail to feel empowered by the various lessons in life and humanity that reach the reader through this book. A thoroughly good read suitable for all ages – I enjoyed reading this immensely." - Lori –
-------------------------------------------------------
"Fantastic book. I don’t want it to end. Please, are there anymore? I have bought 3 copies to give to friends. Peace and keep walking." - Patty
"This wonderful book helped me to look at my daily behaviour in a new light. There is no preaching or even moralising however each story gives a very clear message of the value of trust, the generosity of the human spirit and the benifit of laughter. I was very happy that the surplus that is raised from the sale of the book will go to support monks." - Jeremy
It is a huge privilege to be able to sponsor this book. When I first read it, I was fascinated by its main characters, two monks walking in the South of England. They greet everything that happens to them with a mixture of humour, insight, understanding and sheer superhuman grit. The Dhamma shines through this account of their meetings with ordinary folks. They walk from town to town without food or money, relying on the goodness of others for their daily support, and never knowing where they were going to sleep in the vagaries of the English summer weather.
It is a book that can be read and interpreted at many levels. It can be taken simply as a collection of stories, or it could be a book for young people who are curious about this alternative life style. At another level, it is an account of the practical applications of a world view that goes back two and a half millennia. Each story has an underlying message to offer. It is amusing, informative, occasionally startling, and always entertaining. The illustrations bring the characters and the landscape to life. Suddenly it is normal to see two robed figures at home in an unquestionably English landscape.
This book also represents a new genre; it crosses the boundaries between a travel book, a reflection on human existence, and a spiritual journey. What is most refreshing is that it never preaches, or defends any kind of explicitly stated orthodoxy.
I love its mixture of wisdom and humour. I hope it will do well. Buy it, read it, enjoy it and pass it on
"This is a fantastic book, I didn’t want it to end and savoured it every night before going to bed. It is a very good introduction to Buddhism and how two practising monks approached every day problems. It is such a delight because it is real life situations and how to approach them. I have bought 3 copies to give to friends and family. Best read and reference book on Buddhism so far! Buy it and help others!" - Mrs P. Harrison -
"I do not normally write reviews and this is the first one I have written on Amazon. Each of Mitch Alboms books came close as the take you on such a great journey. But for me, who am relatively new to Buddhism, this book pips my favourite; The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Each chapter is concise and only a few pages long, just enough to get the message across. The message which it highlights allowed me to put myself in there situation and question how I would react allowing for me to get immersed in to the story with clarity and imagination.
I fully recommend anyone who likes Mitch Albom books or has an interest in philosophy, religion or in particular Buddhism to read it, I am sure you will not be disappointed." - Ginger Squirrel –
"How is it possible to survive without any money, to have only the clothes on your back and a bowl, spoon and mug for food and drink? And then to have no home but to wander the modern world relying on just the kindness of the human heart? Impossible? This book is living testament to the tradition of discovering the truth through reliance upon the goodness of the human heart. For those with a jaded spirit and cynical mind, this is like a cool balm that heals the heart closed off from the tumult and the horror of the world. Following a tradition over 2500 years old, that mirrors the pilgrims path of Christianity and the Hajj of Islam, a man from Kent and a Californian discover the truth that lies behind the ephemeral reality that invades our senses and prove that John Lennon was right; all you need is love." - SID
"If you have ever gone on long distance walks, especially those experienced alone or self navigated, then you know what peace arises by bringing humour and insight into each character-building difficulty on the paths which form our life. Even if you have not, here is an original true story that reminds us of how much choice we have in life to become authentic, creatively peaceful, fulfilled people … regardless of what may be going on in the world.
This book refreshingly takes one to a special place within, a place touched by reflections of two buddhist monks on a long distance walk or `tudong` through the English countryside. Its reflections hit deep and are beautifully written. Slowly as the journey progresses, spiritual reflections hint at how we too may better meet life in whatever form it appears, step by step. It shows there are no limits to what we can bear and how freely, calmly and truthfully we can choose to live life, moment by moment. Even seemingly unpleasant events in life can give rise to awakening and help us stand in the truth of who we really are.
I truly recommend this book with its brilliant illustrations. It is a unique treasure with the reflective power to transform and bless us all wherever we are on our spiritual path of life." - P. McMonagle
"Blistered Feet Blissful Mind may act as an ideal key-text for teachers and students of Religious Education; each chapter would make a useful theme and/ or accompaniment for an RE lessons, at GCSE through to degree level.
The book would sit well alongside GCSE syllabuses as its exploration of Buddhism, meditation and ‘faith’ is uniquely contextualised by a Buddhist monk, within the contemporary world. It could also be a beneficial learning tool for the student in further/ higher education as it offers great insight, and opportunity for greater in-depth analysis, into Theravada Buddhism’s actions, values and beliefs.
This book should be in every school, college and university library- the living essence of Buddhism has never been explained so clearly in a modern work." - Katie
"Inspiring, each chapter demonstrates how by being open to uncertainty and trusting in the generosity of others wondrous things occur. The Buddhist teachings resonate through this book showing they are just as relevant in our modern age as in the time of the Buddha. The well crafted drawings help to visualize the story. Would be a great asset to any school library and provides and interesting insight into the life of a Monk." - Bernie
“I found this a totally enchanting book. Two Buddhist monks go ‘tudong’, i.e. walking for days across country with only their robes and boles, and a few bits of primitive camping gear. They rely totally on the kindness and generosity of others for their food, and often their shelter, though sometimes they sleep rough, or under the odd disused lorry they come across. They brave the vagaries of the English summer weather. Each chapter describes meetings they have with different people, what happens, and how their walk intersects with the lives of who they meet. There is comedy, tragedy, or just trudging. Every story is also an illustration of Buddhist beliefs, though these are never spelled out as dogma. Rather they support a way of life that is a polar opposite of our angst ridden consumerist existence. For those who are interested in the spread of Eastern Religions into the West, this book is a treasure trove of information about how the monastic order to which our two heroes belong came into being, and developed in England. The dialogue is well written and often the most illuminating part of the author’s philosophy. The illustrations themselves are sometimes charming, sometimes pithy, and marry well with the whole tenor of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed a very good read.” - Jane
"This is a delightfully accessible book which contains deep insights into Buddhist life and practice and into the human condition. I would strongly recommend it, not least for teachers who could easily use some of the encounters described here to help their pupils understand what Buddhism is really about, to challenge their thinking and to explore their own values and attitudes." - Joyce
"A great story book with interspersed Buddhist aphorisms. Not academic it gives a feel for the life of a Buddhist monk.their life was not always easy and enlightenment was sometimes distant. The stories were gritty absorbing and left me feeling i wanted to know more." - Andrewanando
"Dear Thanuttaro I am very sorry that I have been so long in acknowledging your incredibly wonderful, enjoyable, healiing book. Your book itself is the problem, namely, that having opened it, I have been unable to put it down, let alone close it, in order to write to you. It has been so wonderful to “witness” the change, the unfolding of the hearts of people who have met you, their amazement, their understanding and their enormouse gratitude.
What a fabulous 'travel book' through you and 'Sunno’s'. Body, heart and minds, with warmest wishes and much metta." - Vivien -
From a reader from Germany
Blistered Feet - Blissful mind keeps its promises. It contains many insightful stories of two monks going on Tudong, the buddhist pilgramage. As the monks meet mostly christian people along the way, most of the stories show how universally applyable the teachings of the Buddha and insights are. The monks meet and talk to english school children, a widow, a biker-gang, christian monks and various other very different persons with all sorts of lifestyles, yet the monks always see a way to relate and sort of become friends with them. If you are interested in buddhism or consider yourself one, this book will give you not really much in terms of theoretical teachings but a great read on lived practice during Tudong (not inside a monastery).
And perhaps because of this exact nature of the book, I would recommend it for non-buddhists, too as long as they are openminded! Exept for the word Ajahn (which means teacher), practically no "buddhist"-terms are used and the writing style is easy to follow even if you're a non-native english speaker like me.
Openmindedness is certainly the key. The lifestyle of the pilgramage-monks seems so radically different and sometimes so torturing, ie when they can't eat anything after noon or have to sleep under a broken down truck, freezing for the whole night. It is just when you follow the stories and see how much beauty, insight and peace evolves around this lifestyle that you understand the worth of their training. The stories are full of humanity and compassion and it's incredible, how two buddhist monks "survive" in a mainly christian country where the sight of buddhist monks is largely new to the people. In the end, the book shows that their journey is not about a buddhist lifestyle or a christian lifestyle, but a life that is full of kindness, compassion, peace and wisdom. And the rough way to wisdom from the perspective of the younger monk is quite often not just making one smile, but laugh, too!
A big plus for the beautiful colored illustrations in the book and the good writing style. It all helps to really imagine what the situations there have been like.
------------------------------------------------
"What a delightful read and a charming glimpse into the daily cycle of two Buddhist monks on a Tudong. Sometimes we are given a not-so-appealing insight into some closed-off minds amongst the general public, who can be materialistic and occasionally extremely ignorant. This is, happily, balanced with reports of generous and selfless souls too. As the monks are forbidden ask for help or sustenance, their experiences are sometimes raw, but the incidents with awkward people and situations clearly show that there is something about their simple way of life and their kindness and wise manners which can be uplifting and even life-changing for people they meet. They are fulfilled and calm on a deep level and they radiate this peace and share knowledge if they are given a chance.
A fascinating tale, told with maturity, sensitivity and realism. Extremely enjoyable and recommended to any one wishing for an appealing insight into what makes these gentle people tick, and what might be so alluring about that quest for inner peace." - 'sianw100'
----------------------------------------------
"This is the story of two monks, in the UK,who set out to walk through the countryside in the South of England. They only have their robes and alms bowls and they rely completely on the compassion and generosity of those they meet along the way. Based on real experiences, this story shows how relevant a 2,500 year old tradition can be today. One doesn’t have to be particularly interested in Buddhism to enjoy reading this book, it can be enjoyed by anyone, but one cannot fail to feel empowered by the various lessons in life and humanity that reach the reader through this book. A thoroughly good read suitable for all ages – I enjoyed reading this immensely." - Lori –
-------------------------------------------------------
"Fantastic book. I don’t want it to end. Please, are there anymore? I have bought 3 copies to give to friends. Peace and keep walking." - Patty
"This wonderful book helped me to look at my daily behaviour in a new light. There is no preaching or even moralising however each story gives a very clear message of the value of trust, the generosity of the human spirit and the benifit of laughter. I was very happy that the surplus that is raised from the sale of the book will go to support monks." - Jeremy
It is a huge privilege to be able to sponsor this book. When I first read it, I was fascinated by its main characters, two monks walking in the South of England. They greet everything that happens to them with a mixture of humour, insight, understanding and sheer superhuman grit. The Dhamma shines through this account of their meetings with ordinary folks. They walk from town to town without food or money, relying on the goodness of others for their daily support, and never knowing where they were going to sleep in the vagaries of the English summer weather.
It is a book that can be read and interpreted at many levels. It can be taken simply as a collection of stories, or it could be a book for young people who are curious about this alternative life style. At another level, it is an account of the practical applications of a world view that goes back two and a half millennia. Each story has an underlying message to offer. It is amusing, informative, occasionally startling, and always entertaining. The illustrations bring the characters and the landscape to life. Suddenly it is normal to see two robed figures at home in an unquestionably English landscape.
This book also represents a new genre; it crosses the boundaries between a travel book, a reflection on human existence, and a spiritual journey. What is most refreshing is that it never preaches, or defends any kind of explicitly stated orthodoxy.
I love its mixture of wisdom and humour. I hope it will do well. Buy it, read it, enjoy it and pass it on
"This is a fantastic book, I didn’t want it to end and savoured it every night before going to bed. It is a very good introduction to Buddhism and how two practising monks approached every day problems. It is such a delight because it is real life situations and how to approach them. I have bought 3 copies to give to friends and family. Best read and reference book on Buddhism so far! Buy it and help others!" - Mrs P. Harrison -
"I do not normally write reviews and this is the first one I have written on Amazon. Each of Mitch Alboms books came close as the take you on such a great journey. But for me, who am relatively new to Buddhism, this book pips my favourite; The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Each chapter is concise and only a few pages long, just enough to get the message across. The message which it highlights allowed me to put myself in there situation and question how I would react allowing for me to get immersed in to the story with clarity and imagination.
I fully recommend anyone who likes Mitch Albom books or has an interest in philosophy, religion or in particular Buddhism to read it, I am sure you will not be disappointed." - Ginger Squirrel –
"How is it possible to survive without any money, to have only the clothes on your back and a bowl, spoon and mug for food and drink? And then to have no home but to wander the modern world relying on just the kindness of the human heart? Impossible? This book is living testament to the tradition of discovering the truth through reliance upon the goodness of the human heart. For those with a jaded spirit and cynical mind, this is like a cool balm that heals the heart closed off from the tumult and the horror of the world. Following a tradition over 2500 years old, that mirrors the pilgrims path of Christianity and the Hajj of Islam, a man from Kent and a Californian discover the truth that lies behind the ephemeral reality that invades our senses and prove that John Lennon was right; all you need is love." - SID
"If you have ever gone on long distance walks, especially those experienced alone or self navigated, then you know what peace arises by bringing humour and insight into each character-building difficulty on the paths which form our life. Even if you have not, here is an original true story that reminds us of how much choice we have in life to become authentic, creatively peaceful, fulfilled people … regardless of what may be going on in the world.
This book refreshingly takes one to a special place within, a place touched by reflections of two buddhist monks on a long distance walk or `tudong` through the English countryside. Its reflections hit deep and are beautifully written. Slowly as the journey progresses, spiritual reflections hint at how we too may better meet life in whatever form it appears, step by step. It shows there are no limits to what we can bear and how freely, calmly and truthfully we can choose to live life, moment by moment. Even seemingly unpleasant events in life can give rise to awakening and help us stand in the truth of who we really are.
I truly recommend this book with its brilliant illustrations. It is a unique treasure with the reflective power to transform and bless us all wherever we are on our spiritual path of life." - P. McMonagle
"Blistered Feet Blissful Mind may act as an ideal key-text for teachers and students of Religious Education; each chapter would make a useful theme and/ or accompaniment for an RE lessons, at GCSE through to degree level.
The book would sit well alongside GCSE syllabuses as its exploration of Buddhism, meditation and ‘faith’ is uniquely contextualised by a Buddhist monk, within the contemporary world. It could also be a beneficial learning tool for the student in further/ higher education as it offers great insight, and opportunity for greater in-depth analysis, into Theravada Buddhism’s actions, values and beliefs.
This book should be in every school, college and university library- the living essence of Buddhism has never been explained so clearly in a modern work." - Katie
"Inspiring, each chapter demonstrates how by being open to uncertainty and trusting in the generosity of others wondrous things occur. The Buddhist teachings resonate through this book showing they are just as relevant in our modern age as in the time of the Buddha. The well crafted drawings help to visualize the story. Would be a great asset to any school library and provides and interesting insight into the life of a Monk." - Bernie
“I found this a totally enchanting book. Two Buddhist monks go ‘tudong’, i.e. walking for days across country with only their robes and boles, and a few bits of primitive camping gear. They rely totally on the kindness and generosity of others for their food, and often their shelter, though sometimes they sleep rough, or under the odd disused lorry they come across. They brave the vagaries of the English summer weather. Each chapter describes meetings they have with different people, what happens, and how their walk intersects with the lives of who they meet. There is comedy, tragedy, or just trudging. Every story is also an illustration of Buddhist beliefs, though these are never spelled out as dogma. Rather they support a way of life that is a polar opposite of our angst ridden consumerist existence. For those who are interested in the spread of Eastern Religions into the West, this book is a treasure trove of information about how the monastic order to which our two heroes belong came into being, and developed in England. The dialogue is well written and often the most illuminating part of the author’s philosophy. The illustrations themselves are sometimes charming, sometimes pithy, and marry well with the whole tenor of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed a very good read.” - Jane
"This is a delightfully accessible book which contains deep insights into Buddhist life and practice and into the human condition. I would strongly recommend it, not least for teachers who could easily use some of the encounters described here to help their pupils understand what Buddhism is really about, to challenge their thinking and to explore their own values and attitudes." - Joyce
"A great story book with interspersed Buddhist aphorisms. Not academic it gives a feel for the life of a Buddhist monk.their life was not always easy and enlightenment was sometimes distant. The stories were gritty absorbing and left me feeling i wanted to know more." - Andrewanando
"Dear Thanuttaro I am very sorry that I have been so long in acknowledging your incredibly wonderful, enjoyable, healiing book. Your book itself is the problem, namely, that having opened it, I have been unable to put it down, let alone close it, in order to write to you. It has been so wonderful to “witness” the change, the unfolding of the hearts of people who have met you, their amazement, their understanding and their enormouse gratitude.
What a fabulous 'travel book' through you and 'Sunno’s'. Body, heart and minds, with warmest wishes and much metta." - Vivien -
