Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 99 votes)
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99 reviews
July 15,2025
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God have mercy on Mr. Abraham M. Klein. His book is truly remarkable and is one of the best in Costa Rica. In this book, the protagonist learns from the advice of death and gains the ability to see Carlo. I highly recommend reading this book to those who are interested in psychology.

The story in the book takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and exploration. It delves into the human psyche and the mysteries of life and death. Through the experiences of the characters, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own emotions and behaviors.

Abraham M. Klein's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking. He presents complex ideas in a simple and accessible way, making the book enjoyable for readers of all levels. Whether you are a psychology enthusiast or simply looking for a good read, this book is definitely worth checking out.

July 15,2025
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Carlos Castaneda's books hold great significance for me. His works, along with those of Vadim Zeland, a Russian writer and quantum physicist, and Alexey Bachev, an extraordinary psychologist from Bulgaria and the main character of my book "Life Can Be a Miracle", have had a profound impact on my way of thinking, perceiving, and experiencing reality.

These authors have introduced me to new perspectives and ways of looking at the world. Their ideas have challenged my preconceived notions and expanded my understanding of what is possible.

I am extremely grateful to them for showing me the miraculous way of living. Their teachings have inspired me to explore my inner self, question the status quo, and strive for a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Thanks to their influence, I have become more open-minded, curious, and adventurous. I am now more willing to take risks, step out of my comfort zone, and embrace the unknown.

In conclusion, the works of Carlos Castaneda, Vadim Zeland, and Alexey Bachev have been a source of inspiration and guidance for me on my journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I will always cherish their teachings and continue to apply them in my daily life.
July 15,2025
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I must clarify that after reading this book and thoroughly enjoying it, I delved deeper into the works of Carlos Castaneda. However, upon learning more about him, I came to a realization. I didn't want to risk spoiling the good experience I had with this particular book. So, I made a decision that I wouldn't read any of his other books.


In "A Separate Reality", Castaneda managed to skillfully create a rather tenuous portrayal of reality. This depiction left an emotional impact that was far more thought-provoking than the simple "is this real or not?" dichotomy that he seemingly builds his work around. I suspect that the man himself might be insecure.


Anyway, this book had all the elements that could whet the appetite of a teenager like me. It had mystery, the search for self, shamanism, and some truly surreal scenes (judging the book by its cover is an experience in itself, as he describes!). Quite frankly, I couldn't care less if the events in the book were true or not. It was the overall experience and the ideas it presented that truly captivated me.

July 15,2025
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Read this one first (then the first book as well as the others in the series) - at night, alone - if you want the shivers.

True story? Who knows. It is full of great philosophy. Is it magic? Sorcery? Or just imagination?

When Don Juan tells Carlos about why he lost the one woman he loved, you'll be moved to tears.

When he tells him that his death is always at his left shoulder, and if he looks fast he'll see it, 'to remind him that everything is fine; I haven't touched you yet' and it's a friend for doing so, you'll find yourself trying and looking to see it too.

And it's truly scary. The way the author weaves these elements together creates an atmosphere that is both captivating and spine-chilling.

You can't help but be drawn into the world of Don Juan and Carlos, experiencing their emotions and adventures along with them.

Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, this story will leave you with a sense of wonder and a touch of fear.

It's a must-read for those who enjoy a good mystery and a dose of philosophical思考.
July 15,2025
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Just started this one off.

This time I do take a pencil with me and I've already added some notes to the margins and underlined a few things!

A book full of notes, so that means it is a good book. It is a bit complex, and at times I was a bit mad at Carlos for being such an idiot or for not saying certain things. However, all in all, it was quite good.

The story seems to have many layers, and as I progress through the pages, I find myself more and more intrigued.

The characters are well-developed, and their actions and decisions keep me on the edge of my seat.

Even though Carlos can be frustrating at times, I can't help but feel a connection to him and his journey.

I'm looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds and what other surprises it has in store for me.
July 15,2025
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Self-importance and truth, to the greatest extent (more than anything else - more than any of the imposed states), envelop a person in an unyielding mass of self-confidence and preferences. A person loses form when filled with this feeling, and at the slightest breath of the wind of taste, fashion, and common sense, His Magnificent Judgment disintegrates into a multitude of disharmonious preferences - and not at all because he (or she, it doesn't matter, for a person) is the most characteristic species of the branching of the animal world, experiencing a desert existential crisis of his own contradiction. A person is stupid as a being (in relation to himself, but already as a phenomenon), to the point of impossibility - especially when it comes to his striving to be "more human" than his peers.


Preferences require from a person the traditions and norms of social communication - about which he devotes a large share of his attention to a completely limited set of skills and phenomena, previously disinfected and sterilized (discolored, deprived of mass and pressure, but retaining volume) - with the aim of further sterilizing his daily experience, which is nothing more than a product of a similar sterilization of the experience of others, who have received the same limited set of skills and phenomena - isn't it from the hands of people who lack the sense of self-importance? In this case, is it customary to assert determinism?


But Providence itself is also its own elementary particle! Thus, the rejection of faith in it is inevitably inevitable, since faith would be impossible without its non-recognition. And what kind of "recognition of faith" is this?


It is easy to build a theory according to which the world is ruled by a limited number of sages who have taken upon themselves all the burden of unbelief, not doubted by countless confessional formations throughout the ages stretched out by a thread on the threshold of infantile muteness. And why shouldn't they exist? However, they (like the Divine Dream) should not differ in any way from each of their individual wards - and they have no differences at all - for if anything can achieve "perfection", it is only imitation, devoid of dignity, but worthy of the title of dignity (thus, nations are justified).


The master imitates his slave and therefore only has a privileged position in society, it would seem - but the slave has no less number of advantages, which makes him a pillar of the social structure, the prosperity of that in whose power his life lies - but life "in power" deprives the very phenomenon of power of its price, since life precedes it, and therefore in a slaveholding structure - only the slave flourishes. The revolution was at the hands of those who once realized that they were subjugated in this sense (the equality of the "dark-skinned" brotherhood is first of all in the hands of the "white-handed" of civilization - gender equality is primarily beneficial to the masculine elements of society). Before fighting for "freedom", one must give oneself an account of what exactly is the goal of your "struggle". To be guided by a feeling of dissatisfaction - this is to follow the path of dissatisfaction, which invariably corresponds to the scenario of national security. But if you define "freedom" - it does not necessarily correspond to that of your "allies" (the more active their agreement, the less chance that you will be able to maintain unanimity as you overcome the stages determined by pure chance (or unspoken ignorance) on the way to achieving the goal).


The sense of self-importance is equivalent to the sense of communal integrity (the so-called "patriotism") - since both are the result of deliberate stupidity, put forward as a counterargument to some External Force (which is nothing more than an imitation of those to whom it is opposed - a "perfect" phenomenon, if you like, in contrast to its opponents, who lack, first of all, any signs of a living organism, but are endowed with some kind of "moral image").


It is not things that change, but the way you perceive them. Perception changes, and things are immanent. What can be changed in an egg if you see the human inside it? You can crack a nut and eat the contents, but in the mind, the fact of the pre-existence of the nut to your feeling of hunger will still be preserved? Reality is limited, and therefore insubstantial. But how do things acquire value? Do they imply in their nature a "filling with meaning" or is this an extraordinary act of violence by the Sublimating Reason?

July 15,2025
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Reading books in the order of publication can offer several benefits.

Firstly, it allows us to trace the development and evolution of an author's writing style, ideas, and themes over time. We can observe how they mature and grow as a writer, and how their works are influenced by different experiences and historical contexts.

Secondly, reading in publication order can provide a more连贯 and comprehensive understanding of a particular series or body of work. It helps us to follow the storylines and character arcs more easily, and to pick up on the subtle connections and references that might otherwise be missed.

Finally, it can be a fun and rewarding way to explore an author's oeuvre. We can discover new favorites, revisit old classics, and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of literature.

So, the next time you pick up a book, consider reading it in the order of publication and see where the journey takes you.
July 15,2025
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I am forever grateful to 'skater Josh' for handing me this book back in college.

It was truly a remarkable moment. Since then, I have read this book countless times. The wear and tear on it is evident, as the spine is now held together by duct tape.

This book has taken me on an amazing journey. It serves as a great introduction to Carlos Castaneda's writing. His words have the power to transport the reader to another world, filled with mystery and enlightenment.

Each time I pick up this book, I discover something new and gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and ideas presented. It has had a profound impact on my life and way of thinking.

I will always cherish this book and the memories associated with it. It is a testament to the power of literature and the influence it can have on a person's life.

Thank you, 'skater Josh', for introducing me to this wonderful work of art.
July 15,2025
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This is the volume that comes after Castaneda's revised doctoral dissertation, 'The Teachings of Don Juan' (1968), and before 'Journey to Ixtlan' (1972).

The three books were ultimately released as a cloth trilogy.

I initially began the series in paperback. However, I soon discovered the trilogy and bought it.

Most likely, I purchased it at the Stuart Brent Bookstore in Chicago, which was near the place where I worked during the summer months between college and seminary.

This trilogy holds a special place in my collection. It offers a unique perspective and a captivating story that has intrigued readers for years.

The books take the reader on a journey through the experiences and teachings of Castaneda, as he explores the world of shamanism and indigenous cultures.

Each volume builds upon the previous one, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.

Whether you are a fan of anthropology, spirituality, or simply a good story, this trilogy is well worth reading.
July 15,2025
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Carlos Castaneda's "A Separate Reality"

takes readers on an extraordinary and mind-expanding adventure into the captivating realm of shamanism and spirituality.

This remarkable work is not only thought-provoking but also deeply immersive, drawing readers in and challenging their long-held perceptions.

As one delves into the pages, they are confronted with ideas and experiences that force them to question the nature of reality as they know it.

It serves as a catalyst, igniting a powerful quest within the reader for a deeper understanding of themselves, the world around them, and the mysteries that lie beyond the ordinary.

"A Separate Reality" is a literary gem that has the potential to transform the way we view ourselves and our place in the universe.

It offers a unique perspective on shamanism and spirituality, inviting readers to explore and expand their consciousness in ways they may never have thought possible.

Whether you are a seeker of truth, a lover of philosophy, or simply someone looking for a captivating and enlightening read, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

It is a must-read for anyone interested in the exploration of the human mind and the mysteries of the spiritual world.
July 15,2025
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Es una clarificación del primer libro, las enseñanzas de Don Juan. It is like the beginning of a deeper understanding of an invisible reality discovered by a skeptical mind. This clarification offers new insights and perspectives, helping the reader to better grasp the profound teachings within the book.


Recomiendo escuchar la canción: "Aire" de Mecano, justo al terminar el libro. Listening to this song after finishing the book can enhance the reading experience and add another layer of depth and emotion. The lyrics and melody of the song may resonate with the themes and ideas presented in the book, creating a more immersive and memorable encounter.


A clarifying version of the first book, this rewritten and expanded text aims to provide a more comprehensive and detailed exploration of the teachings of Don Juan. It invites the reader to embark on a journey of discovery and self-reflection, opening the door to a new world of knowledge and understanding.

July 15,2025
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I really made a sincere attempt to read his book. However, the more pages I turned, the stronger the impression grew in my mind that the author might have spent some quality time with Don Juan while indulging in the use of some sort of drug.

It was as if the words on the pages were taking me on a rather strange and perhaps even hallucinatory journey. The descriptions seemed so outlandish and disjointed at times that I couldn't help but wonder if there was some other influence at play.

Maybe the author was trying to convey something deep and profound in this unique way, but for me, it was a rather baffling experience. I found myself constantly second-guessing whether I was really understanding the true essence of the story or if I was just being led astray by these rather curious literary devices.

Nonetheless, I continued to persevere, hoping that at some point, the fog would clear and I would be able to see the beauty and significance that the author surely intended within these pages.
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