Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 99 votes)
5 stars
32(32%)
4 stars
33(33%)
3 stars
34(34%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
99 reviews
July 15,2025
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The bilingual coyote is an interesting and unique creature.

It has the ability to communicate in two languages, which gives it an advantage in the wild.

This coyote can understand and respond to the calls and signals of both its own species and other animals that speak a different language.

Some believe that the bilingual coyote may have developed this skill through years of living in an area with a diverse range of wildlife.

Others think that it could be a genetic mutation that has been passed down through generations.

Regardless of how it came to be, the bilingual coyote is a fascinating example of the adaptability and intelligence of nature.

Scientists are continuing to study this remarkable creature to learn more about its language abilities and how it uses them to survive in the wild.

Perhaps one day, we will be able to understand the full extent of the bilingual coyote's capabilities and use this knowledge to better protect and preserve the natural world.
July 15,2025
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This book was a bit more challenging to rate than the second one. It wasn't quite as good, so it's more of a three and a half.

It covers a similar time period as the other books, but now the author seems to have a better understanding and includes all the real teachings that were previously disregarded or missed.

The author has many non-ordinary experiences that are just as, or even more, striking than the hallucinogenic experiences in the first book. These experiences were not worth mentioning before, but now they are.

The positive aspect of this book is the presentation of several philosophical ideas in a narrative form. They are a compilation from various sources. For example, the Buddhist concept of learning equanimity, accepting our own mortality, and understanding dependent origination is presented as "seeing" that everything is literally connected and thus all things are equally unimportant, and using our death as an ally.

"Stopping the world" is similar to Gurdjieff's "Stop" exercise, which is used to shock practitioners out of their daydreaming and make them aware of other possibilities. Castaneda does "stop the world" and has a profound revelation of equality with a dung beetle, but he doesn't seem to be able to apply this newfound wisdom beyond the beetle. This is similar to all the other lessons he learns but is never able to fully apply.

The idea of the lines connecting all of us as luminous beings to each other and the world is similar to many mystical visions, ley lines, and Huna cords. Dreams and their incubation are a common and well-known practice in many indigenous cultures. Overall, there isn't really anything new here except for bringing all these ideas together.

The major inconsistency for me is how Don Juan, an older and experienced individual who "sees" everything as interconnected and equally unimportant and is always in the realm of "not-doing", giggles and rolls on the floor laughing a lot, often in a mocking or belittling manner. This doesn't seem to fit the image of him.

The ending becomes philosophical, referring to the title and Don Genaro's literal journey back to Ixtlan, in the sense that you can never really go back home. Of course, Castaneda doesn't progress in his training, so he can go back home to Los Angeles and write a few more books.
July 15,2025
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Journey to Ixtlan is presented in a rather deceptive manner. It appears to be a factual work, but in reality, it is fictional. Carlos Castaneda, the author, has continuously claimed that this set of books is true. However, this dishonesty and the resulting inaccuracies have had an impact on the field of anthropology and metaphysics. When reviewing Journey to Ixtlan or Castaneda's other works in the series, this must be taken into account.


If your interest lies in anthropology related to Yaqui Indians, Toltec shamans, or Mexican brujos, it is advisable to reject these books and look elsewhere for more reliable sources. Similarly, if you are seeking a literal understanding of metaphysics, these works should be rejected. However, they may have value as allegory and metaphor. It is up to the individual reader to decide whether they serve this purpose well.


The prose writing style of these books is of poor quality, with a line-per-line approach that may not be to everyone's taste. Nevertheless, there is a certain charm to Journey to Ixtlan in terms of the topics it covers. Castaneda weaves in the concepts of some modern philosophers to create an entertaining tale that is filled with ideas to ponder and discuss. Taken as allegory, these books may hold value for many readers. While they may not be the most sophisticated works on various philosophical concepts, they can provide an entertaining overview for novices.


In my opinion, this book is a significant improvement over the previous two in the series, The Teachings of Don Juan and A Separate Reality. In fact, I would suggest that readers skip the first two books and begin the series with Journey to Ixtlan.


Overall, Journey to Ixtlan can be a worthwhile read for some, as long as it is understood for what it truly is and not for what it purports to be.
July 15,2025
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This is a truly great book.

I vividly remember reading it numerous times back in the 70's.

The memories associated with this book are deeply ingrained in my mind.

Now, I find myself with a strong urge to check my storage unit.

I'm eager to see if I still possess the very copy that I read and carefully highlighted all those years ago.

That copy holds a special place in my heart, as it represents a significant part of my life during that era.

I'm hopeful that it's still there, waiting for me to rediscover and perhaps relive those wonderful moments of reading.

Even if it's not in the best condition, it will still be a precious find.

I can't wait to embark on this search and see what I'll uncover.

July 15,2025
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Oh my.. what kind of alchemy is this??

It managed to pull me out of myself and be part of something much grander. It’s like someone made it accessible for me to climb up that mythological Greek tree to see things anew.

Common sense isn’t so common. I've stood behind this statement for so long that it is being confirmed in these days. I’ve had my moments where I found myself blinded with a kind of fog that would know how to shroud and hinder me from seeing. It’s as though you yourself were the rock with the hollows in it. A fog which prompted points of tension. And where everything was happening so fast it’s as though you were turned on autopilot letting whatever it is to steer you. (Just like when Castaneda drove don Juan and Don Genaro or he thought he did). Until you could hold it no longer and where that power became too overwhelming that you finally surrendered to it wearing the outfit of a fallen warrior who’s lost his balance and place in this world. Defeated by that worthy opponent.

It is all the more mesmerizing to know that even though the introduction by the author made it seem like it is real, and based on real life characters, I've come to know only after finishing it that that wasn't the case. It's a complete work of fiction. I was even more drawn to it and to Don Juan especially. His teachings, as far away from human perception as they can be, it's strange how close his words were. With every technique that he's suggested and practiced, one can seem to bring it forth in their day to day lives. The simplest of acts can harbour stupendous outcomes. No matter how crazy they may seem. Especially because they're crazy, they work.

I can't really explain what kind of effect reading this book has had on me. Weirder still is the way I've come across this book. It was within the framework of a course I've taken this semester where our teacher asked us to set a goal for this semester and in the course of the conversation I've mentioned that I feel like I'm stuck and something or someone is hindering me and holding me still in my place. I did not utter these words but he was able to extract these words from what I had said. I tried so hard not to voice it and say that I'm stuck. He caught me off guard and managed to pique my curiosity to pick up this book.

And I can only thank him for the recommendation.

And I quote:

"What's wrong is that once they know you, you are an affair taken for granted and from that moment on you won't be able to break the tie of their thoughts. I personally like the ultimate freedom of being unknown. No one knows me with steadfast certainty, the way people know you, for instance."

This book has truly been a mind-bending experience. The way it blurs the lines between reality and fiction is both captivating and disorienting. It makes me question everything I thought I knew about myself and the world around me. The teachings of Don Juan, although seemingly far-fetched, have a strange kind of logic to them. They make me wonder if there is more to life than what we can see and touch.

I find myself constantly thinking about the book and trying to apply its lessons to my own life. It's like a new way of looking at things has been opened up for me. I'm not sure where this journey will take me, but I'm excited to find out.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something different and thought-provoking. It's not an easy read, but it's definitely worth the effort.
July 15,2025
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There is a particular perspective on Don Juan stories among those who have read it. Some individuals approach it with the intention of seeking life lessons and potentially transforming their lives. They take this book extremely seriously, meticulously searching for details that could educate them on enhancing their spiritual aspect. They take notes and highlight lines within the book. While I can understand why some adopt that approach, I chose not to. I began reading this book as if it were simply a story. I didn't overly concern myself with the life lessons. I noticed them, but I regarded them as integral parts of the story that applied to the characters within it. What truly mattered to me were the characters, the narrative, and the descriptions, all of which were captivating. I adored Don Juan's character; every time he made an appearance, I couldn't help but smile. Carlos himself was a very intriguing character, someone who was truly perplexed yet determined simultaneously.


It was only after I completed the story that I realized I had made a wise decision in reading the book without fretting about how I could apply Don Juan's lessons to my own life. As it all became clear to me in the end. Carlos Castaneda does an outstanding job in this book. He takes you along with him, and throughout all the events, you witness his confusion and his internal battle between reason and belief, just as you might experience in your own life. Castaneda doesn't anticipate the reader to make sense of the things that happened to him; he simply desires for you to feel as confused and astonished as he was. And as he progresses towards acceptance, you progress with him, and that is what makes it a great story. I have no idea how many of the events that Castaneda recounts in this book are real and how many are mere hallucinations, but it truly doesn't matter. The essence of the book is to step into Castaneda's shoes and attempt to "See", and that is the most crucial message within this book.

July 15,2025
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This book was truly an extraordinary read, captivating my attention from the very beginning. It was both utterly fascinating and eerily bewildering, leaving me in a state of constant wonder.

There were moments when I was granted a fleeting glimpse of profound insights that seemed to cut through the fog of my understanding. However, there were also other moments where I found myself completely lost, unable to follow the complex narrative or the author's train of thought.

At times, the book seemed to flow in a manner similar to a strange dream, defying the linearity of time and taking me on a journey through a world that was both familiar and yet completely foreign.

The most profound insight I gained while reading this book was about the concept of death and the importance of always being aware of its presence. The author's words, "You, on the other hand, feel that you are immortal, and the decisions of an immortal man can be cancelled or regretted or doubted. In a world where death is the hunter, my friend, there is no time for regrets or doubts. There is only time for decisions," really struck a chord with me.

Ultimately, though, this book is about the mysterious concept of "stopping the world." While I'm not entirely sure what that means, the quote, "What stopped inside you yesterday was what people have been telling you the world is like. You see, people tell us from the time we are born that the world is such and such and so and so, and naturally we have no choice but to see the world the way people have been telling us it is," seems to hint at the profound transformation that occurs when one is able to break free from the constraints of society's expectations and see the world for what it truly is.

This book has left me with a lot to think about and has definitely changed the way I view the world around me. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and engaging read.
July 15,2025
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A fascinating book about the amazing world and the wonder of being human!


This book takes you on a journey through the diverse and captivating landscapes of our world.


It explores the mysteries of nature, from the tallest mountains to the deepest oceans.


Discover the beauty and complexity of different cultures and the unique ways in which people live.


Learn about the remarkable achievements of human beings, from scientific breakthroughs to artistic masterpieces.


Immerse yourself in the stories of individuals who have overcome great challenges and made a difference in the world.


This book will inspire you to appreciate the world around you and to realize the potential within yourself.


It is a must-read for anyone who is curious about the world and wants to explore the limitless possibilities of being human.

July 15,2025
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This book also had a profound impact on my life, and I truly adored it.

It is filled with numerous remarkable quotes that have the power to make you stop and think.

Without a doubt, it challenges you to question what you think you know and even makes you wonder about your own sanity.

But what exactly does it mean to be sane? That's a question that this book forces you to grapple with.

It makes you realize that our understanding of the world and ourselves may not be as straightforward as we initially believe.

The quotes in this book serve as thought-provoking catalysts, pushing you to explore new perspectives and reevaluate your beliefs.

Overall, this book is not just a source of entertainment but a life-changing experience that leaves a lasting impression.
July 15,2025
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This book is a re-telling of the previous Don Juan books.

However, rather than maintaining the mystery intact, Castaneda remodels Don Juan into a kind of New Age Buddhist monk who speaks Spanish and has a penchant for drugs.

The cryptic visions and unexplained poetic metaphors have vanished.

In their place, there is a hint of Castaneda's future intention of "cashing in" on the books as a New Age guru.

This is the worst of the series.

For my overall view on Castaneda, I encourage you to read my review of his The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge.

It seems that Castaneda has deviated from the original essence and charm of the Don Juan stories, transforming them into something that may be more commercialized and less in line with the expectations of true fans.

The absence of the mysterious and poetic elements that made the previous books so captivating is truly a disappointment.

One can only hope that future works in this series, if any, will return to the roots and bring back the magic that once made the Don Juan books so beloved.

July 15,2025
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"The art of war - to balance between the horror of being human and the wonder of being human."


This is, at the very least, a very interesting fixation that is incredibly engaging. At most... it's even hard to say. I would recommend this book even to skeptics as a good story.


The concept of balancing the horror and wonder of being human is a profound one. It makes us think about the complex nature of humanity and how we navigate through the various experiences that life throws at us. The horror could refer to the atrocities and hardships that we witness or endure, while the wonder could be the beauty, kindness, and moments of joy that make life worth living.


By presenting this idea in the context of the art of war, the author adds another layer of depth. War is often associated with destruction and violence, but it also forces us to confront our humanity in ways that we may not otherwise. It makes us question our values, our loyalties, and our ability to survive in the face of extreme circumstances.


Overall, this short passage offers a thought-provoking perspective on the human condition and the role that the art of war can play in shaping our understanding of it. It's a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and turmoil, there is still room for wonder and beauty.

July 15,2025
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It adhered extremely strongly.

This phenomenon of adhering strongly is quite remarkable. It implies a high degree of tenacity and firmness.

Perhaps it is due to some special properties or forces at play.

The fact that it adhered so extremely indicates that there was a significant connection or bond.

This could have various implications depending on the context.

It might suggest a reliable attachment or a difficult-to-break connection.

Overall, the description of "adhering extremely strongly" gives us a sense of the intensity and importance of the adhesion.

It makes us wonder about the nature of the substances or elements involved and the consequences of this strong adhesion.

Further investigation and analysis may be required to fully understand the implications and significance of this phenomenon.
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