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Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 99 votes)
5 stars
32(32%)
4 stars
46(46%)
3 stars
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99 reviews
July 15,2025
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Holy cow!

I truly think that Castaneda must have had Alzheimer's disease when he penned this.

Or perhaps he had a 9th-grader serving as an intern for him, and this 9th-grader composed the absolute dumbest, most ridiculously insane piece of junk he could muster.

Then, he tricked Castaneda into signing it and sent it off to the publisher.

Maybe the 9th-grader's stoner friend worked as an intern there, and this stoner friend managed to get it published by blackmailing his boss.

Or something along those lines.

The only reason I endured reading the entire thing was out of sheer curiosity as to whether that bizarre angry-teenage-boy tone could actually be sustained throughout.

And it was!

He screams obscenities on almost every single page.

Wow!

This is really, really bad.
July 15,2025
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I indulged in a bit of weirdness with Carlos Castanada’s The Active Side of Infinity.

If you haven’t heard of Castanada, his is an interesting story. He was an ordinary individual who discovered his esoteric side when he met a sorcerer called Don Juan. I grew up listening to stories about him, so when I picked up this book, I expected a lot of magic.

However, since this was one of his last in the series, he spoke about the ordinariness of his life and how he used memory as a tool to go to the other side. The earlier books in the series explore weirdness in a more satisfactory manner. They are filled with strange encounters, spiritual teachings, and mind-bending experiences that leave the reader in awe.

In contrast, The Active Side of Infinity seems a bit more subdued. It focuses on the practical aspects of Castanada’s journey and how he applied the lessons he learned to his daily life. While it may not be as exciting as the earlier books, it still offers valuable insights into the nature of reality and the power of the human mind.
July 15,2025
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It was really very interesting. In the 70's, we had to read a couple of his earlier books in my anthropology classes. This experience left a deep impression on me. Recently, I came across this particular book and decided to give it a read. To my surprise, I finished reading it in record time, probably a little over a week. The content of the book was so engaging and captivating that I couldn't put it down. It offered unique perspectives and insights into the field of anthropology, which I found truly fascinating. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in anthropology or is looking for an interesting read.

July 15,2025
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Each of Casteneda's books has been a powerful read for me. I am truly fascinated by the process of deciphering the wisdom hidden within the realm of fiction. It is an experience that I find deeply empowering and enlightening. What makes his works so unique is that they don't force spiritual opinions upon the reader. Instead, they point at the truth that lies within each of us, leaving us to decide what that truth really is. This approach allows for a more personal and profound exploration of one's own spiritual journey. It encourages us to look within ourselves and discover the answers that are already there. Casteneda's books have the ability to open our minds and hearts, and lead us to a greater understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

July 15,2025
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I found it different from other works of Castañeda. It is a bit more spiritual. Perhaps because it is the 12th book, and we can see the spiritual process more put into practice in the writing. However, it loses a bit of the enigmatic tint of his other books.

This work seems to have a more direct exploration of the spiritual realm. The author may have reached a certain stage in his spiritual journey, which is reflected in this book. The writing style also appears to be more straightforward, as if the author is trying to convey his spiritual insights more clearly.

Nevertheless, the loss of the enigmatic quality may make some readers feel that it lacks the charm and mystery of his previous works. But on the other hand, it also provides a more accessible entry point for those who are interested in exploring the spiritual aspect. Overall, it is a unique work that offers a different perspective on Castañeda's spiritual exploration.
July 15,2025
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So much wisdom can be found in the simplest of things.

We often overlook the profound lessons that are right in front of us.

Nature, for example, is a宝库 of wisdom.

The changing seasons teach us about the cycle of life, growth, and renewal.

The way a flower blooms despite the challenges of its environment shows us the power of perseverance.

Even in our daily interactions with others, there is wisdom to be gained.

Listening to different perspectives can broaden our understanding and help us make better decisions.

Taking the time to reflect on our experiences allows us to learn from our mistakes and grow as individuals.

We should strive to be more aware of the wisdom that surrounds us and make an effort to apply it in our lives.

By doing so, we can lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
July 15,2025
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I must say this book made me question a lot of things that have transpired in my own personal journey called life!

It's truly remarkable how a single piece of literature can have such a profound impact on one's perspective. As I delved deeper into the pages of this book, I found myself reflecting on the various experiences, decisions, and events that have shaped who I am today. It made me wonder if I had made the right choices, if there were alternative paths I could have taken, and what the consequences of those choices might have been.

This book also made me question the nature of reality itself. Are the things we believe to be true really as they seem? Or are there hidden layers and meanings that we are yet to discover? It opened up a whole new world of possibilities and made me realize that there is so much more to life than what meets the eye.

Overall, this book has been a thought-provoking and eye-opening experience for me. It has challenged my beliefs, expanded my mind, and encouraged me to look at life from a different angle. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a book that will make them think and question the world around them.
July 15,2025
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**The Fascinating World of Wildlife**

In the wild, there are countless interesting stories and anecdotes. One such story involves a guy with bad breath. He was out in the forest one day when he encountered a group of animals. The animals, upon smelling his terrible breath, quickly scattered in all directions. It was quite a comical sight!



Another exciting incident was the capture of the king vulture. A team of wildlife researchers had been tracking the majestic bird for weeks. Finally, they were able to set up a trap and successfully capture it. The king vulture, with its impressive size and striking appearance, was a sight to behold. The researchers carefully examined the bird, took some measurements, and then released it back into the wild.


These are just a few examples of the many interesting things that happen in the world of wildlife. It is a world full of wonder and mystery, waiting to be explored and discovered. Whether it's the antics of a guy with bad breath or the capture of a magnificent king vulture, there is always something new and exciting to learn.
July 15,2025
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This is Castaneda's testament, in which he reviews the salient episodes of his apprenticeship. However, he rereads them from a different perspective, more that of a layperson than that of an initiate. Sometimes rough dialogues and a host of characters on the verge of plausibility serve as a backdrop and a diversion.

Probably, this new volume was not necessary. Nevertheless, it remains well-written and enjoyable.

The book offers a unique exploration of Castaneda's experiences, presenting them in a fresh light. The different perspective adds an interesting layer to the narrative, allowing readers to see familiar events in a new way.

Although the dialogues may be a bit rough at times, they contribute to the authenticity of the story. The diverse cast of characters, while perhaps stretching the bounds of believability, enriches the overall experience and keeps the reader engaged.

Overall, despite its perhaps unnecessary nature, this volume is a worthwhile read for fans of Castaneda's work or those interested in spiritual exploration and personal growth.
July 15,2025
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The Active Side of Infinity (The Teachings of Don Juan #12) by Carlos Castaneda is a remarkable book.

It is a collection of Castaneda's key experiences presented in an accessible manner. These experiences offer a profound insight into a unique tradition and clarify ideas that emerged in his previous works.

Castaneda's series of books, starting from The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge in 1968, has been widely translated and published. Each book in the series delves deeper into the world of shamanism and the teachings of Don Juan.

The Active Side of Infinity continues this exploration, presenting new perspectives and teachings. It is a must-read for those interested in shamanism, Native American cultures, and the exploration of consciousness.

The translations of these books into different languages, such as Persian, have made them accessible to a wider audience.

Carlos Castaneda's work has had a significant impact on the field of anthropology and the study of alternative spiritualities. His books continue to inspire and challenge readers to explore the deeper aspects of themselves and the world around them.

Overall, The Active Side of Infinity is a valuable addition to Castaneda's body of work and a fascinating read for anyone interested in the mysteries of life and consciousness.
July 15,2025
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Carlos Castaneda was a young man who was initially confused and didn't understand the ways of Don Juan Matus. However, Don Juan seemed to have an all-encompassing understanding of everything. This contrast between their levels of comprehension was what made their relationship so fascinating.

Don Juan's wisdom and knowledge were vast, and he was able to guide Castaneda through a series of experiences that would change his perspective on life. Despite Castaneda's initial lack of understanding, he was willing to learn and grow, which is what made their interactions so important.

This story is my favorite because it shows the power of learning and the importance of having a mentor who can guide us on our path. It also highlights the fact that sometimes, we may not understand everything right away, but with an open mind and a willingness to learn, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.
July 15,2025
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Sex, drugs and shamans - these are three elements that have often been associated with certain subcultures and spiritual practices.

Sex, in some contexts, has been explored as a means of physical and emotional connection, as well as a source of pleasure and self-discovery. However, it can also be a complex and controversial topic, with different cultural and moral perspectives influencing its perception.

Drugs, on the other hand, have a long history of use in various spiritual and medicinal practices. Some substances are believed to have the ability to alter consciousness and provide insights into the deeper aspects of the self and the universe. However, the use of drugs also comes with significant risks and potential negative consequences, both physically and mentally.

Shamans, as spiritual leaders and healers, have played an important role in many traditional cultures. They are often believed to have the ability to communicate with the spirit world, diagnose and treat illnesses, and provide guidance and wisdom to their communities. The practices and beliefs of shamans can vary widely depending on the culture and context, but they generally involve a combination of rituals, ceremonies, and the use of natural substances.

Together, sex, drugs and shamans can form a complex and fascinating tapestry of human experience and exploration. While each of these elements has its own unique characteristics and implications, they all share a common thread of seeking something beyond the ordinary, of exploring the boundaries of human consciousness and experience.
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