Here are some books that the author of The Core highly recommends. This list will be updated and
changed on a regular basis, so be sure to check back occasionally for updates.
I Am That: Talks
with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj. What can be said? The king of spiritual books. To me, this book is worth
far more than its own weight in gold. Regular and careful reading, combined with meditation, can carry you rapidly
to Self-Realization. It's a miracle that such a book is available, and my deep thanks go to the translator, Maurice
Frydman. 550 pages, paperback.
This book is so popular that amazon.com often runs out of it. Keep searching - your local bookseller will likely
carry it. For some excellent reader reviews, click on the link above.
The Way of Zen, by Alan Watts.
An amazingly clear exposition, not only of Zen, but also of the Hindu doctrine of Maya and what it
really means, the true meaning of the Buddha's teachings, and others. Watts makes no errors here
in interpreting the meaning of the Eastern religions and belief systems, as is so common. His understanding
of Zen, Hinduism and Buddhism in general is both clear and concise. Recommended reading for all.
256 pages, paperback.
Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind, by
Shunryu Suzuki. Written by an enlightened Zen master, this book is literally steeped in the Zen way of
seeing things. Many of the writings in this book acted as inspirations to the author of The Core and
contributed to the teachings on the main page. Paperback.
Living At The Source - Yoga
Teachings of Vivekananda. Some of the best sayings of Swami Vivekananda (the chief disciple of Sri Ramakrishna
Paramahamsa), compiled into a 153-page book. No spiritual aspirant should be without this inspiring book.
Vivekananda has the heart of a lion and the gentleness of a lamb, and his grand, glorious exposition of
Vedantic concepts is a true inspiration for all spiritual aspirants. 153 pages, paperback.
The Spiritual Teaching of Ramana
Maharshi (Shambhala Dragon Editions). One of the best expositions of the teachings of the much-loved
Hindu sage Sri Ramana Maharshi, arranged by topic. The core of his teachings are conveyed here with great clarity.
116 pages, paperback.
The Collected Works of Ramana
Maharshi. Edited by Arthur Osborne. A nice, integrated collection of the works of Ramana Maharshi, including his
translations/interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita, Shankara's Viveka-Chudamani, and much more. A great book to pick up
and browse through when feeling "out of touch" with the Reality. Ramana's words will bring you back to your Self quickly!
This is the book the author of The Core picks up often. 192 pages, paperback.
The Heart of Awareness -
A translation of the Ashtavakra Gita (by Thomas Byrom). The Ashtavakra Gita is considered one of the "purest" of
Hindu scriptures. Also known as the Ashtavakra Samhita, this is the finest English translation available. Generally
considered to be written by an enlightened master, this book is a must-read for anyone on the nondual spiritual path.
92 pages, paperback.
All books by Jean Klein.
Jean Klein is one of the consummate Western teachers of nonduality, and his books are among the clearest and most understandable ever
written on the topic. Sort of a cross between Nisargadatta Maharaj and J. Krishnamurti, he has a style all his own. However, his books
are often very difficult to find, and some are out of print. Try clicking on the link to see what you come up with. You might also
try here to order directly from the Jean Klein
Foundation (they do not accept credit cards at this time).
The Secret Of Letting Go,
by Guy Finley. This is the only book by Mr. Finley I've found to be worthwhile, and it it an EXCELLENT introduction to the
nondual perspective without ever even mentioning the word "nondual!" Guy Finley has disguised this as a "Self-help/Improvement"
book, and the disguise is excellent. Don't be fooled though, there is real wisdom to be found in the pages of this
book. It's also light, easy reading and one of the best introductions to genuine spirituality out there. Learn how to
let go of the "false self" and discover your true nature. 218 pages, paperback.