Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 99 votes)
5 stars
32(32%)
4 stars
46(46%)
3 stars
21(21%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
99 reviews
July 15,2025
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Is it just me, or have Carlos Castaneda's books devolved by this point?

Whereas the previous books in the series provided the spiritual warrior with valuable techniques and much food for thought, this particular book just gives the impression of being bad science fiction.

The unfathomable mysteries that were once present are now gone, and in their place, we have only mere caricatures of the real Don Juan and Carlos.

In my opinion, the first five books are essential reading. They offer profound insights and a unique perspective on the spiritual journey.

However, this book has the feel of an anomaly to me. It seems to lack the depth and authenticity that characterized the earlier works.

It is disappointing to see what was once a captivating series take such a turn.

I hope that future installments, if there are any, will return to the spirit and substance that made the first five books so memorable.

July 15,2025
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I have penned a brand new review of Carlos Castaneda titled "The Science of Seers".

This review offers a distinct perspective as it compares Modern Science with the wisdom of the Shamans of Ancient Mexico and also delves into religion, all while addressing the fundamental existential questions of human beings.

For me, it positions the writings of Castaneda in a way that has never been done before.

If you could spare a moment to take a look and read it, I would be truly pleased.

Here is the link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
July 15,2025
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The second half of the book is extremely interesting.

One can notice the evolution of Carlos Castaneda from "The Teachings of Don Juan".

I highly recommend it to those who are interested in shamanic cognition.

It is a book full of mystery, mysticism, and great teachings for daily life.

Carlos Castaneda's works have always been a source of inspiration and exploration for many.

In this particular book, the second half takes the reader on a deeper journey into the world of shamanism.

The author's growth and development as a writer and a seeker of knowledge are evident.

The mysteries and secrets that are revealed in this part of the book are both fascinating and thought-provoking.

Whether you are a seasoned student of shamanism or just beginning to explore this area, this book has something to offer.

It can open your eyes to new ways of seeing the world and can provide valuable insights into your own life and spiritual journey.

So, if you are looking for a book that will challenge you, inspire you, and expand your consciousness, I urge you to give this one a try.

July 15,2025
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Try as I might, I just could not get my mind wrapped around this book. It seems that no matter how hard I try, the content of this book remains elusive to me. Perhaps it's just Castaneda's style, which is too wandering for my taste. His writing seems to meander without a clear direction, making it difficult for me to follow and understand. I find myself constantly getting lost in his words, unable to make sense of what he is trying to convey. It's frustrating, to say the least. However, I also recognize that everyone has their own unique writing style, and perhaps this is just not the right book for me at this time.

July 15,2025
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There are people and groups of people who have a profound impact on your life. Even if you have lost close contact with them, there is always a great deal to be grateful for.

For me, this is precisely the case with my friends Manolo and Armando. Along with Víctor Sánchez, they delved deeply into the spiritual practices of the Yaquis and Toltec Indians. That immersion brought about significant changes in my attitudes towards my physical body. I began to exercise regularly, which not only improved my physical health but also gave me a sense of discipline and determination.

Emotionally, I started to overcome my fears and became more confident in myself and my abilities. Spiritually, I continued my search for new paths and experiences that I had never even imagined before. This exploration led me to discover new aspects of myself and the world around me.

Some of these experiences came from my contacts with shamans, who shared their wisdom and knowledge with me. Others were inspired by the teachings in Carlos Castañeda's books, which I found to be a source of great inspiration and learning.

My second book of the year was one that I simply couldn't put down until I finished it. In this book, Carlos Castañeda tells us about his life and his encounters with the Yaqui Indian Juan Matus, culminating in his final contact with infinity.

What amazes me is that as I read books by mystics of all denominations and religions, I find that they all talk about very similar things. Although some of the things described in the book may seem "fanciful" or hard to believe, I still liked it a great deal. This is because many of the teachings it mentions are ones that I have actually practiced in my own life, and I have found them to be truly beneficial.

In conclusion, the experiences and teachings that I have gained from my friends and from reading Carlos Castañeda's books have had a profound and lasting impact on my life. I am truly grateful for all that I have learned and for the people who have helped me along the way.
July 15,2025
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Fraud or not?

This was truly a life changing book for me. It had an incredible impact as it opened up my mind to a whole world of possibilities.

Before reading this book, my perspective was rather limited. But as I delved into its pages, I found myself being introduced to new ideas and concepts that I had never considered before.

It set me on a personal quest of discovery. I became eager to explore these new possibilities and see where they would lead me.

This book served as a catalyst for change in my life, inspiring me to think differently and take risks.

It made me realize that there are often more options available than we initially think, and that by being open to new ideas, we can expand our horizons and achieve things we never thought possible.

I am truly grateful to have come across this book and will always cherish the lessons it has taught me.
July 15,2025
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I had purchased this book 13 years ago. At that time, I read several pages and then stopped.

Later, I found myself constantly struggling between my spiritual pursuits and my physical life. I was longing for something that could assist me in restoring the connection I once had with the universe.

Remarkably, this very book, Carlos Castaneda's journey, managed to bring the sense of infinity back into my heart.

Now, I am able to close my eyes and envision those profound and mysterious景象 once again. It's as if this book has opened a door to a world that I had long forgotten, yet always yearned to return to.

The words within its pages have a power that transcends time and space, touching the deepest recesses of my soul and reawakening a part of me that I thought was lost forever.

Carlos Castaneda's journey has truly become a guiding light in my life, leading me towards a greater understanding of myself and the universe around me.
July 15,2025
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This is the second-best Castaneda book, and that is truly extremely high praise.


Castaneda's 12 books present a distinct way of perceiving the world. One can take them literally, as they are intended, or view them through one of numerous metaphorical lenses. I choose to do both, as that is my way of approaching things.


This was the final book that he completed. It offers a slightly different perspective on his tutelage under the sorcerer Don Juan Matus. Additionally, it provides us with an insight into Castaneda's life outside of his work. He is an outstanding storyteller, regardless of how one analyzes it.


If you were to read only two of his books, it would be advisable to start with "Journey to Ixtlan" and then this one. However, in reality, it would be best to read them all and simply relax and enjoy the journey through his unique literary world.


July 15,2025
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Back when I initially read this, I knew nothing.

It was as if the words on the page were a foreign language, completely incomprehensible to me.

However, a few years have passed since then, and something remarkable has happened.

Recapitulation has become known to me.

I have delved deeper into this concept and have begun to understand its significance.

It is like a lightbulb has gone off in my mind, and I can now see the connections and implications that I was previously blind to.

This newfound knowledge has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me, and I am eager to explore further and learn more.

I realize that there is still much to discover and understand, but I am confident that with continued effort and study, I will be able to master this subject and apply it to my life in meaningful ways.
July 15,2025
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This book offers us yet another peek into the relationship between Carlos and don Juan Matus, rather than presenting an ongoing storyline.

Listening to Carlos delve into the universe of being with his teacher/shaman was truly enjoyable for me.

It was a very nice read indeed. I have a fondness for this series, although it has been a long time since I last read it.

The exploration of their connection provides unique insights and a sense of wonder.

Carlos' experiences and growth under the guidance of don Juan Matus are captivating and thought-provoking.

Even after all these years, the allure of this series still lingers, making me eager to revisit it and rediscover the wisdom and magic within its pages.

Perhaps it's time to dust off those old books and embark on this enchanting journey once again.

July 15,2025
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Classic. Castañeda has often been criticized for allegedly making up a significant portion of his story. However, I find great value in how, through his portrayal of his teacher, he explores the fascinating breakdown between what occurs in'reality' and what transpires within the mind. The question 'did I actually fly or did I just think I flew?' lingers, and he is unable to obtain a straightforward answer from Don Juan.

This kind of exploration into the blurred boundaries of perception and consciousness is truly captivating. It makes one question the nature of our experiences and the reliability of our senses.

If you have an affinity for books that delve into such profound and thought-provoking themes, then you'll surely love my project. Check it out at http://youtube.com/c/seekersofunity?s.... It offers a unique perspective on similar topics and is sure to engage and inspire you.

July 15,2025
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Most of it is a recap of the previous books.

This means that a significant portion of the current work is dedicated to summarizing and refreshing the readers' memories of what has happened before.

While the amount of new content may be minimal, it is still beneficial to have the entire plot tied together.

This helps to create a more cohesive and连贯的 narrative, allowing readers to better understand the overall story arc and the relationships between the characters.

By recapping the previous books, the author can also build on the established themes and motifs, adding depth and complexity to the story.

Even though there may not be a lot of new information, the act of tying everything together can give readers a sense of closure and satisfaction.

It can also set the stage for future installments, leaving them eager to see what will happen next.

Overall, while the recap may seem like a small part of the book, it plays an important role in the overall reading experience.
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