Books & book reviews
Book review of The Holy Wild: A Heathen Bible for the Untamed Woman. Danielle Dulsky asks us to look at our own stories and “tiny soulful treasures long-buried” for spiritual truth and to embrace our right to an authentic relationship with the sacred.
The Holy Wild: A Heathen Bible for the Untamed Woman Read More »
The Hidden Worlds is an easy to read book aimed at teen readers about using shaman techniques to address environmental problems. The Hidden Worlds introduces power animals, the four elements and mutual dreaming to enter the hidden worlds of perception.
The Hidden Worlds: Book Review Read More »
This Mindfunda Book review is written by Misa Tsuruta, Ph.D. I have asked Misa, a Japanese psychologist,to write this review as
Asian Journals: the Allegory of American Mythologist Joseph Campbell Read More »
Wanda Burch re-writes the American civil war in terms of dreams. She has collected a multitude of dreams that make you realize how important dreams were in that time period. Newspapers published dreams about the end of the war as a way to shed some light on the question when the war should end. A book filled with remarkable dreams. If you like history and love dreams, this is a book for you.
Civil War and Dreams: The Home Voices Speak Louder Than the Drums Read More »
Dreams are a manifestation of fiction. In The Fiction of Dreams Otto Rheinschiedt takes us on a journey to discover how dreams and fiction are part of the universal creation.
The Fiction of Dreams, A Book Review Read More »
I had my last nightmare in December 2008. I stand outside a hospital room looking in. there is a young guy waiting to
Healing the Nightmare Freeing the Soul Read More »
In an ideal world we would learn from the past and create a future that is based on the progress
The Ideal World: Is Science Going to Create it? Read More »
Your environment has got more impact on you and your state of well being than you’d imagine on first sight. Grounding Religion, a Book Review. It was only after reading this book that I could get a grip on how many aspects are involved in the intertwining of Ecology and Environment.
Environment: 3 Ways a Place can Have an Impact on your Well Being Read More »
The Dream Interpretation Dictionary. Symbols, Signs and Meanings (Click to buy the book and support Mindfunda). by J.M. DeBord Visible Ink,
The Dream Interpretation Dictionary Read More »
Danielle Dusky explains in Woman Most Wild, Three keys to Liberating the Witch Within that there are not one, not two, but three keys to unlock your broom closet and fly away to kiss the moon.
Woman Most Wild, 3 Keys to Liberating the Witch Within Read More »
Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization Heinrich Zimmer, edited by Joseph Campbell shows how much Zimmer contributed to our current concepts of mythology.
Heinrich Zimmer: Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization Read More »
Explore The Agony of Eros by Byung Chul Han, a profound analysis of love’s decline in modern society. From Eros’ connection to the Other to the ‘inferno of the same,’ this book challenges our views on love, relationships, and individuality in a consumer-driven world. Is Eros truly dead?
Byung Chul Han: Agony of Eros, a Book Review Read More »
If you have, a child with learning difficulties, like I do, you have experienced the same heart ache. You know
Learning Difficulties Can Be a Chance to Excel: The Power Of Different Read More »
Can information about the past gained through dreams, spirit possession rituals, or dancing performances count as history? This Mindfunda Book Review of Dreaming and Historical Consciousness in Island Greece
by Professor Charles Steward PhD, asks you 4 questions to re-write our own narrative.
Who thinks Dreams have a Place in History? A Review in 4 Questions Read More »
A Mindfunda Book Review: Joseph Campbell The Mythic Dimension, a compilation of essays. This book will help you undertand groundwork of mythology according to Campbell
Joseph Campbell: 5 Secrets to Yield Your own Yoda Read More »
Each woman goes through phases of life: the young and fertile Maiden, the nurturing Mother and the wise Crone. A Crone is a woman who has been through hell and back, and on her travels she has gained secret knowledge.
4 Features of the Dreams of the Crone Read More »
A Book review of The Dreams of Santiago Ramon y Cajal by Benjamin Ehrlich
In this blog you will find out:
why the Nobel price winner Cajal wanted to proof Freud wrong
Ramon y Cajal: Father of Neurology and his Vision on Dreams Read More »
Aging and Becoming, A Reflective Inquiry, written by Susan Scott and Susan Schwartz is a book that will try to paint a roadmap of your journey through aging, using the letters of the alphabet as gps points.
Aging and Becoming: A Roadmap Towards Authenticity Read More »
People are story tellers. I have always had that romantic notion of Homo sapiens siting around the campfire in ancient times listening to stories. Like we, in this day and age sit around our television set and watch story after story. In the night we follow the stories of our dreaming mind.
But why hasn’t there been any book that explores the intersection of dreaming and literary imagination. A book that draws together neurocognitive, empirical, philosophical and literary sources. Until Michaela Schrage Früh stepped up the plate and wrote this juicy, well written book.
Is a Dream A Story? Philosophy, Dreaming and Literary Imagination Read More »
Freud in His Time and Ours by Roudinesco contains more than 400 pages of information about Freud, his life, his disciples and his personality. A must read for anyone who is interested in dreams.
Freud in His Time and Ours Read More »
Gary L. Wenk’s Your Brain on Food: How Chemicals Control Your Thoughts and Feelings delves into the fascinating relationship between food, the brain, and our emotions. A must-read for anyone interested in understanding how nutrition can become addictive and impact mental health, Wenk, a Professor at Ohio State University, explains how food and drugs affect brain chemistry. From the effects of fat on taste to the role of antioxidants in brain health, this book uncovers essential insights about how our brain responds to the foods we eat and why food is so much more than just sustenance. Learn about neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and more, and discover why eating less is beneficial for both your body and brain.
Nutrition, Neurons, and the Brain: Your Brain on Food Book Review Read More »
Gothic Tales* *Affiliate link by Arthur Conan Doyle Edited with and Introduction and Notes by Professor Darryl Jones Oxford University
Conan Doyle: Gothic Tales Read More »
As a figure of ritual importance since the pre-Christian era, the Krampus is of archetypal significance. He lives in the cultural unconscious … and bidden or not, he will come.
The Krampus and the Old, Dark Christmas: Roots and Rebirth of the Folkloric Devil Read More »
Call of the Cats What I Learned about Life and Love from a Feral Colony by Andrew Bloomfield New World
Cat Call for the Soul: the Bond between Cats and Humans Read More »
‘A Day in the Life of the Brain – The Neuroscience of Consciousness from Dawn Till Dusk’ by Susan Greenfield
Consciousness: the Ripples in the Lake of the Brain Read More »
Discover the hidden strengths of introverts and how to thrive in an extroverted world. Explore the psychology of introversion, Jungian insights, Susan Cain’s “Quiet,” and the symbolic power of dreams to embrace your true self.
Extrovert Ideal versus Introvert World Read More »
Explore Mythology of the Soul by H.G. Baynes, a masterwork of Jungian psychology. This 900-page study delves into the unconscious through schizophrenic dreams, art, and mythology, offering profound insights into balance, self-understanding, and the archetype of the hero.
Schizophrenic Dreams and Art: Mythology of the Soul Read More »
The Power of Ritual by Robbie Davis Floyd and Charles Laughlin delves into the profound impact of rituals on human life, blending personal stories with academic rigor. From birth rituals to the transformative power of mythology, this book explores how rituals shape, sustain, and challenge cultural paradigms.
The Power of Ritual: Informative and Intriguing Read More »
In Translating Myth, a collection edited by Ben Pestell, Pietra Palazzolo, and Leon Burnett, the authors tackle the intricate task of defining and exploring the concept of myth from various angles. The book dives deep into how myths are translated across languages, media, and cultures. It examines how myth has been created, interpreted, and re-established in modern contexts, including its connections to politics and poetry. With insights into the works of visionary artists like William Blake and a thoughtful exploration of myth in American literature, this book is an invaluable resource for those fascinated by the intersection of mythology, psychology, and culture. Although the language is scholarly, the book’s content provides a unique perspective on how myths shape and reflect our collective unconscious. Highly recommended for those interested in deepening their understanding of mythology’s role in shaping identity and society.
Translating Myth: Re-wording the unseen knowledge Read More »
Dreams have long been seen as windows into our unconscious minds, offering insight and inspiration for solving life’s problems. Deirdre Barrett, Ph.D., explores this fascinating connection in her book The Committee of Sleep: How Artists, Scientists, and Athletes Use Dreams for Creative Problem Solving—and How You Can Too. Barrett delves into how creative minds in various fields have harnessed the power of dreams to solve complex problems, make groundbreaking discoveries, and fuel their art.
Through real-life stories, such as Paul McCartney’s famous Yesterday melody, which he dreamed before turning it into one of the most iconic songs of all time, Barrett shows how dreams can provide the keys to creativity. Whether it’s an artist receiving visual inspiration or a scientist stumbling upon the solution to a problem, dreams have the ability to unlock new perspectives and solutions. However, Barrett also acknowledges the lack of a practical guide in the book, leaving readers without concrete steps on how to tap into dreams for problem-solving directly.
If you’re fascinated by the role dreams play in human creativity, The Committee of Sleep offers a compelling collection of dream-inspired stories. But if you’re looking for actionable advice on using dreams to solve your own problems, this may not be the book for you.
Problem Solving using the Committee of Sleep Read More »
Ariadne’s Clue by Anthony Stevens is a fascinating guide to the rich world of symbols, mythology, and their psychological significance. In this blog, we explore how symbols, such as Ariadne’s thread, appear in dreams and mythological tales, providing insights into how these images shape human consciousness. Stevens delves into the connection between symbols and the unconscious, drawing from both mythology and evolutionary psychology to make sense of these ancient symbols. Whether you’re interested in dream analysis, mythological symbols, or the collective unconscious, this book is a valuable resource that structures and explains complex ideas in an accessible way.
Ariadne’s Clue, a guide to the symbols of humankind Read More »
In Big Dreams: The Science of Dreaming & The Origins of Religion, Kelly Bulkeley explores the profound impact of “Big Dreams”—those rare, unforgettable dreams that reshape our perspective on life. As a psychologist of religion and former president of the International Association for the Study of Dreams, Bulkeley offers a new approach to dream research by focusing on the most meaningful dreams, which have long been overlooked. Divided into four parts, the book investigates the science of sleep, the content of dreams, the significance of Big Dreams, and their connection to religious experiences. A highly readable and insightful exploration of dreams, neuroscience, and spirituality, this book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the deeper meaning of our nightly visions.
The Treasure Hunt for the Black Swan Read More »
In What is Relativity? An Intuitive Introduction to Einstein’s Ideas, and Why They Matter by Jeffrey Bennet, readers are introduced to the fundamental concepts behind Albert Einstein’s groundbreaking theories. Bennett’s engaging approach makes complex ideas like the theory of relativity accessible without requiring advanced math. Through thought experiments and simple explanations, Bennett explains the two major theories of relativity, and their implications on space, time, and gravity. This has led me to reflect on the potential for a unified theory of the human psyche—could psychological laws mirror those of the physical universe? In this blog, I explore the intersection of Einstein’s ideas and human nature, particularly in the context of mutual dreaming and collective consciousness.
Albert Einstein and the Theory that Explains Everyting Read More »
Strange Gods: A Secular History of Conversion by Susan Jacoby explores how conversion has been shaped by culture, history, and society. Jacoby reflects on her personal journey of questioning religious beliefs, much like many do when faced with tough concepts, like the sacrifice of a child in religious texts. The book argues that conversion is often more about cultural forces than personal choice, and highlights how modern “conversions” also happen in science, with figures like Richard Dawkins serving as new high priests. Jacoby’s work reminds us of the power of belief systems and the importance of freedom in choosing—or rejecting—faith.
Conversion as a way of thinking Read More »
James Joyce’s work, particularly Ulysses, has deep connections with mythology, as explored in Mythic Worlds, Modern Words: On the Art of James Joyce, edited by Edmund Epstein. The book reflects on how Joseph Campbell’s interpretations of Joyce’s work shaped his understanding of myth and the human psyche. Joyce’s writing often portrays an artist grappling with feelings of being lost in the world, using internal images to create meaning. This duality of inner conflict versus external reality is a recurring theme in his work, especially in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, which illustrates how pain and self-doubt fuel creativity.
Joyce’s writing also draws on Dante’s Inferno, with Ulysses being likened to Dante’s hell, creating a framework for self-discovery through mythic archetypes. For Joyce, as for Campbell and Dante, the “holy spirit” is often represented by a woman, symbolizing the transformative force of creativity and inspiration. However, while the book focuses on male archetypes, it offers powerful insights into human psychology, mythology, and the artistic journey, helping readers better understand their place in society and their personal quest for meaning.
James Joyce: Juicy, Jaunty and Jaded Read More »
Learn how Brene Brown’s teachings on vulnerability can help you dare greatly and transform your life. In her book Daring Greatly, Brown explores the power of entering the arena, overcoming perfectionism, and adjusting our approach to education and work. Vulnerability can lead to incredible results, and embracing imperfections is key to personal growth. Discover how to unlock your full potential by embracing these life-changing concepts.
Brene Brown: 3 Keys to Dare Greatly Read More »
Unlock the power of Prophetic Causal Dreaming with Dream ESP—a unique blend of the I Ching and Golden Dawn techniques. This insightful guide bridges dream journaling, symbols, and higher practical magic to bring about desired life changes. Discover how to partner your subconscious and conscious self for transformative insights. Learn structured techniques to decode your dreams and take actionable steps toward clarity and growth.
Dream ESP, the secret of prophetic causal dreaming Read More »
Discover three powerful ways to detect cancer in its early stages through dreamwork, intuition, and visualization. In She Who Dreams, Wanda Burch shares her personal story of healing breast cancer by listening to her dreams, using mental imagery for physical restoration, and acting on her dreams to bring their guidance into reality. Learn how dreams can provide premonitions, healing metaphors, and life-saving insights, as emphasized by dream experts like Robert Moss and Larry Burk. Explore the healing power of dreams and take actionable steps to enhance your health and well-being.
3 ways to detect cancer in an early stage Read More »
Unlock the magic in your everyday life with Robert Moss’s Sidewalk Oracles: Playing with Signs, Symbols, and Synchronicities in Everyday Life. This captivating guide reveals how to rediscover wonder, break free from monotonous routines, and tap into the hidden synchronicities shaping your path. Inspired by dreamwork, mythology, and timeless wisdom, Moss invites readers to embrace Kairos moments, play with the Trickster, and engage with the world through 17 enchanting games like bibliomancy and sidewalk tarot. Rediscover the extraordinary within the ordinary and follow your heart’s compass to a more vibrant, connected existence.
Meet Magic in Everyday Life: Book Review Sidewalk Oracles by Robert Moss Read More »
Our Dreaming Mind by Robert van de Castle is a captivating exploration of dreams, blending scientific research with personal insights. From the historical evolution of dream theories to cutting-edge studies in dream telepathy, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of the role dreams play in our psychological and spiritual lives. Van de Castle’s work is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of science and the mysterious world of dreams, offering timeless wisdom for those looking to understand the deep power of the unconscious mind.
Our dreaming mind by Robert van de Castle Read More »
