The Aunt Jemimah Post

The Aunt Jemimah Post

Book List with Commentary

  Compiled by Delores L. Adams, Editor-in-Chief

“Books are a treasure.”

A Christmas Carol (et al) by Charles Dickens (1843), one of the most beloved authors in the English language.  A Christmas Carol is a delightful masterpiece for all ages that celebrates both the true Spirit of Christmas giving, which shares rather than hoard, and the possibility that anyone, when ready, can change from a miserable miser haunted by a fear of lack to a cheerful benefactor filled with charity and abundance toward all.

A Course In Miracles (“ACIM”) by Scribes Helen Schucman and William Thetford, research psychologists at Columbia University in New York City, originally published by the Foundation for Inner Peace (c.1975).  In response to a hostile and very competitive work environment that operated between Helen and Bill her supervisor, in particular, one day Bill adamantly declares: “There must be another way!”  Destined to work even closer together, then unthinkable, such assertion ultimately changes everything between Helen and Bill and makes it possible for A Course in Miracles to materialize in our world.  For those longing for sustainable peace and harmony between colleagues and society in general, ACIM is the way!  While the Course often uses Christian terms, it emphasizes a universal theme.  According to my years of experiences with it, ACIM is a practical, self-study guide to learning and applying the wisdom of Jesus Christ that truly works, sometimes instantly. Thus, I have long held that ACIM is, indeed, a Westernized version of Janna Yoga, which literally means union with God thru wisdom and discernment between Truth (which is God) and illusions (the ego).

A Course In Miracles Urtext Manuscripts Complete Seven Volume Combined Edition researched and compiled by Doug Thompson, et al.  Adapted from the Publisher’s Note: Known as the Urtext Manuscripts (a reproduction of ACIM’s original manuscripts absent significant changes and omissions by previous editors), this compilation represents the oldest available typed copy of A Course in Miracles.  In the Urtext, the reader will better appreciate the Course’s authenticity and textual scholarship. This is because it includes over 48,000 words edited out of most previously published versions. Discussions of sex and possessiveness, Sigmund Freud, the Bible, Edgar Cayce, and Mary Baker Eddy will be new material for students and teachers of other versions.  Here, we are asked to view the Bible holistically given a marked tendency by many Bible followers to be entirely literal about fear and its effects, but not about love and its results. When, actually, it is the outcomes of love that should be taken literally as the Bible is more about love, being about God (Urtext T 8, I 7).  A DVD and a free companion website offer a substantial research library with over 10,000 pages of primary source manuscripts, concordances and searchable e-texts (Doug Monkton, Publisher, 2008).

A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles, (et al) by Marianne Williamson (1992), an established teacher of the Course.  Here Marianne manages to reduce many of the complex principles of the Course to everyday terms; hence, its worldwide acclaim, particularly amongst ACIM novices.

A World Beyond: An eyewitness account of the hereafter by Ruth Montgomery (Feb 12, 1971). This book came to me by divine intervention and has been with me since the beginning of my spiritual journey. This is supposedly the first eyewitness account of the afterlife from the then renowned psychic, Author Ford, a former student of Paramahansa Yogananda, who had recently passed on and who had personally known the author.  A great read, believe it or not.  Given my miraculous initiation, I believe it!

About Reincarnation: The Voice of Paramahansa Yogananda – Collector’s Series #8 (CD): One Life Versus Reincarnation.  A talk given in 1949 and published by Self-Realization Fellowship (“SRF”) in 2006. An integral part of Creation, reincarnation occurs naturally; much like the sun, the rain, or the very air we breathe.  Yet, once we learn that we can overcome the cycle of death and rebirth, age-old myths that foster fear and ignorance will soon fall away. Then we find that not only does reincarnation make sense, it explains why some people’s lives are a disaster, while others seem to enjoy a truly happy life.  We also learn that an “eternal” hell simply does not exist.  This alone is liberating.

Absence from Felicity: The Story of Helen Schucman and Her Scribing of A Course in Miracles by Kenneth Wapnick, Ph.D. (1991). The main title for this ambitious text is very touching (Preface, p. 2), particularly for those of us who have or are still passing through the arid region: “Absent thee from felicity awhile, and in this harsh world draw thy breath in pain, to tell my story (Shakespeare’s Hamlet to Horatio in final scene).”  A dear friend to Helen and Bill, Ken Wapnick, along with Helen, is the original editor of A Course in Miracles and considered one of its foremost teachers, who also certify the ongoing translators of the Course. A very smart guy, in this book Ken gives an in-depth account of Helen’s personal experiences with Jesus, her scribing of the Course and her relationship with William Thetford, her collaborator.  One day, the world will wake up and realize that it owes a debt of gratitude to those dedicated individuals who initially answered “the Call” to fulfill this enormous task and to those who later fought “the ego” to free ACIM’s words for public use; see acim.org here or an attorney re copyrights and the public domain.  Missing from its official publication, today some vital words are now published in A Course in Miracles Urtext Manuscripts, see separate listing.

African Presence in Early Asia by Runoko Rashidi, Editor and Ivan Van Sertima, Editor, 10th Anniversary Edition (1995): A compilation of essays, this book is the first in a series of books by the Journal of African Civilizations (1st Ed., 1985). Such argues “that the history of the African presence in Asia is one of the most significant, challenging and least written about aspects of the global African experience (p.12),” dating back to (or before) Antiquity with compelling illustrations.

Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors by Piers Paul Read (1974). A true story, this book is amazing.  I just love it. One day, while very depressed, my kid brother stops by.  He had just finished reading this great book and wanted to share it; glad I was home. He then tells me the whole story and we spend the entire afternoon discussing it.  So vibrant was their story and the strength of their characters (Nando and Canessa in particular) we both end up talking about these guys as though they were old friends.  Later, after reading this book, I reflect on how far I had come in my own spiritual journey and was grateful. Today, I am still inspired by their story. See link below to Nando Parrado’s account in his book, Miracle in the Andes.

All Night, All Day, Angels Watching Over Me: A Guideposts Book, edited by Evelyn Bence (1996). With photos and short bios of each narrator, from a firefighter’s rescue by an angel to a convicted criminal’s encounter with a powerful “presence” in his cell, this book of true angel stories will increase your faith in the reality of a loving and all-powerful God (Adapted from Back Cover, 1st Zondervan Ed). This book is ever at my bedside, I just love it.

America in the King Years, originally a trilogy by award winning historian, Taylor Branch, this is both a biography of Martin Luther King, Jr. and a history of his era, a must have.  Following are links to each book in this series plus Branch’s latest addition; a handy, compact volume “for students of freedom and teachers of history,” highlighting eighteen pivotal moments:

• Parting the Waters : America in the King Years 1954-63 (Nov 15, 1989)
• Pillar of Fire : America in the King Years 1963-65 (Jan 20, 1999)
• At Canaan’s Edge: America in the King Years, 1965-68 (Jan 9, 2007)
• The King Years: Historic Moments in the Civil Rights Movement (Jan 8, 2013)

Angel Letters by Sophy Burnham (Jul 28, 1998). The author’s first book about the beautiful presence of celestial beings in human affairs, A Book of Angels, generated a wave of response from readers nationwide.  In Angel Letters, Burnham shares some of their stories of healing, rescue, warning, and comfort (Inside flap, hardcover, 1st Ed).

Autobiography of a Yogi (et al) by Paramahansa Yogananda (1946), Founder of Self Realization Fellowship (“SRF”), Church of all Religions. A must read for those drawn to the path of Ancient Yoga. This bio reads more like a text book than an autobiography, thus a great introduction to the ancient science of Yoga from a highly evolved Master Teacher.  Yoga literally means “union with God” according to Master Yogananda; therefore, the true purpose of Yoga practice is to first unite our body, mind and Spirit with God. This book stayed with Steve Jobs his entire life, here, which he first read as a teenager, then re-read in India and once a year thereafter, it was the only book he had downloaded on his iPad 2 according to his biographer, Walter Isaacson.

Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth (et al) by Mohandas Karamchand (Mahatma) Gandhi (Nov 23, 2012, 1st ed. 1927), a truly inspiring book from a truly great soul. This is a must read, you will know that you are in the presence of greatness.  As to the title, Gandhiji writes: “This truth is not only truthfulness in word, but truthfulness in thought also, and not only the relative truth of our conception but the Absolute Truth, the Eternal Principle, that is God (Introduction, pp. xi, 1972 Ed, Navajivan press, India).

Awakening Osiris: The Egyptian Book of the Dead, translated by Normandi Ellis (1988). A new translation of Ancient Egyptian spirituality then titled, The Book of Coming Forth by Day. As I see it, death or being dead has two meanings: (1.) Our soul departs, the body decays, dries up and turns to dust, being useless, we are dead to this world.  (2.) We return in a new body, we cherish it, feed it, then wrongly attach to it (or our ideas) and forget about God; in time, our capacity to love dies and we suffer.  It is this second meaning of death, the death of our very soul, of which the Ancients speak, in all their myriad ways, to wake our awareness of God and of our very Soul, which never really died.  A poetic delight, this book speaks to us.

Before I Got Here: The Wondrous Things We Hear When We Listen to the Souls of Our Children by Blair Underwood and Donyell Kennedy-McCullough (Oct 25, 2005).  The young children of acclaimed actor, Blair Underwood inspired him to gather this wondrous collection of what little children tend to say, usually to a parent, while still remembering from whence they came: Since age three, Paul has said extraordinary things, says his mom. After being told to put on his slippers, he replied: “I’m tired of wearing slippers. I wore slippers for sixty-five years when I was here before (p. 165).” A four-year-old says to her mom, “I’m not like everyone else. I’m different…I’ve been here before (p. 171).”  Have you been here before?  An inspiring read nonetheless, I just love it.

Bright Boulevards, Bold Dreams: The Story of Black Hollywood by Donald Bogle (Jan 31, 2006). Spanning sixty years, this book reveals a place both mythic and real with unique rules, institutions, and personalities where many of Hollywood’s blacks created a world unto itself despite the realities of debilitating racism. Yet, some white artists, like the resolute Bette Davis, were appalled by racism’s injustices and confronted it (p. 233). With interviews and personal memories of Hollywood luminaries at hand, we get to visit a vanished time that has left its indelible mark (Adapted from Back Cover, 1st Ed., 2006).

Complete Story of the Course: The History, the People, and the Controversies Behind “A Course in Miracles” by D. Patrick Miller (Aug 1997).  A wonderful reference source, filled with lots of detailed information.  As a long time student of the Course and veteran journalist, Miller hopes this book will help “to facilitate a more accurate impression of the Course” and to “serve as a factual reference” for all interested parties; such as prospective students, journalists, historians, theologians, and so forth (Introduction, p. 5, 1st Ed.).

Dark Night of the Soul by E. Allison Peers and St. John of the Cross (Nov 24, 2008).  At some point, we all become serious about our spiritual progress and will do whatever it takes to move forward. And so we take “the Path” that ultimately leads through the arid region. This region, so eloquently defined by St. John of the Cross, the 16th Century Spanish mystic, is usually a severe state of lack the Soul experiences that oft-appears differently.  For some, extreme poverty, for others prolonged illness, imprisonment, or war and famine; which, in the end, is the same really. Though the world may see such forms as unjust suffering, in this case the Soul is purging its bad habits of negative thinking and actions so as to join, once again, with its Creator, the Source of all good and happy things.  And so it is!

David Copperfield: Premium Edition (Unabridged, Illustrated, Table of Contents), by Charles Dickens (1850). The most beloved English classic of all times. Though likely in jest as he never meant to publish it, this was originally titled: “The Personal History, Adventures, Experience and Observation of David Copperfield the Younger of Blunderstone Rookery.” A universal tale embellished with whimsical characters, as only Dickens could do, such is the poignant story of an innocent young boy’s escape from a precarious childhood in Victorian England to ultimately become a fully realized man of means, which seemed to reflect Dickens’s own life, though he never admits it. Eventually, he would write, “…Like many fond parents, I have in my heart of hearts a favorite child. And his name is David Copperfield (Preface, 1867 Ed.)”

Edgar Cayce on Reincarnation and Family Karma by Kevin J Todeschi (Jan 14, 2011), Executive Director and CEO of Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. and Atlantic University, who has been both student and teacher of the Cayce material for over thirty-five years. This book “makes an enormous contribution to demonstrating that life is a completely lawful experience, that individuals can overcome whatever ‘karmic lessons’ they seem to be faced with, that free will is completely free, and that God is truly as fair and as loving as we have always wished for our Creator to be (Book Description at above link).”

Edgar Cayce on Reincarnation by Noel Langley and Hugh Lynn Cayce (Jun 5, 1989): One day during a reading in August of 1923, “Cayce, the most devout and orthodox of Protestants, a man who had read the Bible once for each of his forty-six years, [discovers] that far from being a half-baked myth, the law of reincarnation was a cold, hard fact.”  After clearly seeing that this fact did not conflict with his very literal view of Christ teachings and the Bible, Cayce continues and ultimately gives over twenty-five hundred past life readings. Although a fair amount of people were too “lazy” to make the effort to change, some actually “transformed their lives” and become more useful to society; which is the primary purpose of reincarnation after all (Adapted from Chapter One, pp.11-14, 14th Ed., 1973).

Embraced by the Light by Betty J. Eadie (1992), an amazing account of one woman’s near-death experience, who goes to Heaven and back again with an important message for all: “Above all else, love one another (p. 147, hardcover, 1992).

ESV New Classic Reference Bible (Apr 7, 2011), The Holy Bible, by Various Authors

Founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement: A Short Story by Maulana Muhammad Ali (Mar 1, 1995), from book description at above link: “This short biography of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad by his close associate, Maulana Muhammad Ali discusses Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad claim to be the Mujaddid (reformer) of the 14th century, Hijra. It details his services to Islam and refutes the false allegations of his opponents that he claimed to be a prophet after the Holy Prophet Muhammad.”

Four Agreements, The: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) by Don Miguel Ruiz, MD (1997).  This is a great learning tool, which was suggested by Oprah via Ellen DeGeneres when first available. This highly advanced, yet very humble author, was recently interviewed by Oprah on the OWN channel, and was very enlightening.  Though seemingly easy, it can take years of daily practice to master these four agreements, or any advanced teaching, yet worth doing.

Golden Age of the Moor, Journal of African Civilizations, Dr. Ivan Van Sertima, Editor (1993). Written by distinguished scholars in their fields, this is a lovely complication of essays with compelling evidence that should rest all doubts as to the Moors’ race and ethnicity.  But, of course, it won’t!  Given the European’s reconquest of Spain and its expulsion of the Moors (c. 1492), the Eurocentric ego has fought to render the world in its own lop-sided image ever since.  Hence, the ongoing argument as to who the Moors were continues, though gradually losing ground as new technology, globalization, and interracial friendships advance.  In time, the sorry issue of whose race or ethnicity is more superior will dissipate, making way for a more civilized world order.  Of course, the lingering question of man’s inhumanity to man is probably beyond the scope of this work.  Yet, a thoughtful reading of this book can change the world.  But do hurry. With all the foolish debates that benefit no one, except a few backward leaders, the world grows weary daily. Yet, since we made it, we can change it.

Guideposts Magazine: True Stories of Hope and Inspiration, founded by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, a renowned Protestant Minister and his wife, Ruth Stafford Peale.  Mostly short stories, now on Kindle, a good read between appointments or before bedtime.  Also, check out my other Guideposts favs: Angels on Earth and His Mysterious Ways.

Hard Times by Charles Dickens (2012, 1st ed.1854), my hero: Ever the consummate social activist of his time, via his incisive novels and periodicals animated by extraordinary characters, in a letter to Charles Knight, January 30, 1855, Dickens writes about the heart of this book, “My satire is against those who see figures and averages, and nothing else…the men who, through long years to come, will do more to damage the real useful truths of political economy than I could [ever] do…(A Norton Critical Edition, p. 277, 1966).”

Holy Bible, The: King James Version (KJV) with Search Every Verse Navigation by Various Authors (Jun 9, 2011) Kindle Ed.

Holy Qur’an, The: With English Translation and Commentary (English and Arabic Edition) by Maulana Muhammad Ali (May 2002, 1st ed. 1917). Born in Punjab (India), Muhammad Ali (1874–1951) had obtained degrees in English and Law before devoting his life to the service of Islam.  Of note, the historical debate about the publisher of this version, the Ahmadiyya Movement, to which the author belonged, is still ongoing. Nonetheless, a serious religious scholar or any reasonable person simply cannot dismiss this erudite translation of the Holy Qur’ān, which is highly organized with index and insightful annotations.  Wanting to leave the world an updated English translation of the Qur’ān, Muhammad Ali finished this work on his “sick bed” shortly before he passes. And assures us that: “The principle of the greatest importance to which I have adhered in interpreting the Holy Qur’ān is that no word of the Holy Book should be interpreted in such a manner as to contradict the plainer teachings of the Holy Qur’ān (Preface, Revised Arabic and English ed., 1951).”  See above link to, Founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement, a short bio by our translator.

How to Make Love All the Time: Secrets for Making Love Work (et al) by Barbara De Angelis, Ph.D. (Jun 1987). I just love this book and the author, a great lady. Years ago, I met Dr. De Angelis at a Whole Life Expo and told her how much I loved her book, and how one day, while very depressed, I was inwardly led to this book in my price range, which had been mysteriously left (or so it seemed) on a lower shelf way in the back, and greatly marked down. A blessing, yes of course, but ironic nonetheless, given the lucrative aspect of this bestselling book.  We both laughed.  Affectionately called ‘the love doctor’ by her fans, De Angelis writes: “Love dies in an atmosphere of dishonesty.  When you suppress the truth, you are destroying your ability to feel. And when you stop feeling, you stop loving (p.67, 1st Ed).”

Identities in Motion: Asian American Film and Video (Aug 14, 2002) by Peter X Feng, Ph.D., an Associate Professor of English and Women’s Studies at University of Delaware and editor of Screening Asian Americans. Here he shows how Asian American film and video makers frame, and are framed, by history; how they define, and are defined, by cinematic projections of Asian American identity.  Dr. Feng begins by examining movies about three crucial moments that defined the American nation and the roles of Asian Americans within it: The arrival of Chinese and Japanese women in the American West and Hawaii; the incorporation of the Philippines into the U.S. Empire; and the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.  By focusing on the fluidity of Asian American identities, Feng highlights the diversity and complexity of Asian Americans (from Back Cover, 2002 Ed).

Introduction to the Study of the Holy Quran by Maulana Muhammad Ali (Dec 1992). This is on my list of books to get.

Jesus Christ Heals  (et al) by Charles Fillmore (1936), Co-founder of Unity Church. After Myrtle Fillmore was miraculously cured of tuberculosis, the couple began studying spiritual healing, including the work of Mary Baker Eddy, founder of Christian Science (1879), and ultimately found Unity Church in 1889. Having fully embraced the teachings of A Course in Miracles, today Unity Church is one of ACIM’s ardent supporters, where weekly classes, its books and guest speakers are offered at most of Unity’s affiliate churches.

Les Misérables (English language) by Victor Hugo (1862), an intricately woven story linking the various aspects of human relationships inherent in family, community, and government with emphasis on crime, pursuit and redemption via its central character, Jean Valjean.  Of course, this book is not just about the struggles of one person or one’s own country.  No, Victor Hugo does not let us off that easily. For a better world, we truly must, “Love thy neighbor as thy self (St. Matt 22:39).” In a letter to his Italian publisher, M Daelli, which still rings true today, Hugo writes: “At the hour of civilization through which we are now passing, and which is still so somber, the miserable’s name is Man; he is agonizing in all climes, and he is groaning in all languages.”  Considered one of the West’s greatest books to date, Les Misérables should be required reading for prisoners and government officials alike!

Life and Times of Frederick Douglass, The: His Early Life as a Slave, His Escape from Bondage, and His History Complete, Written by Himself (c. 1881), by Frederick Douglass (Dec 19, 2003). An African American hero in the truest sense: “Raised as a plantation slave, Douglass went on to become a writer, orator, and major participant in the struggle for African-American freedom and equality. In this engrossing narrative he recounts early years of abuse; his dramatic escape to the North and eventual freedom, abolitionist campaigns, and his crusade for full civil rights for former slaves (From Book Description at amazon.com).”

Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela 1st Ed. (1996). Just simply one of the greatest “moral leaders” since Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.  This book speaks for itself: “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. I have walked that long road to freedom.  But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can rest only for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not yet ended (Extracted from, pp. 624-625).”

Miracle in the Andes: 72 Days on the Mountain and My Long Trek Home by Nando Parrado and Vince Rause (2007). Driven by a profound love of family, with absolutely no mountain climbing experience, proper clothing or equipment, and after climbing one of the highest mountains in the Andes (“nearly seventeen thousand feet,” p.185), two of the 1972 Andes airplane crash survivors literally walked out of the Andes Mountains and amazed the entire world, a miracle indeed! This is Nando’s story, who writes: “If we had known anything about climbing, we’d have seen we were already doomed.  Luckily, we knew nothing, and our ignorance provided our only chance (supra).”  Having read their story over thirty years ago (see “Alive” by Piers Read), I still feel as though I know Nando and Canessa personally.  A rare account, which positively affirms that mind, does prevail over matter after all!

Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet (et al) by Karen Armstrong (Sep 10, 1993): A great book for Westerners who are not that familiar with Prophet Muhammad, and a really big help for those seeking to understand Islam and its beginnings. Of course, after further research on this great man, who helped advance the world, you just might fall in love with him. For to truly know Prophet Muhammad is to love him; who once said (to all devout students): “The ink of the scholar is more sacred than the blood of the martyr.”

Mutant Message Down Under, Tenth Anniversary Edition by Dr. Marlo Morgan (May 25, 2004): An extraordinary story of one women’s four-month-long “walk about” (spiritual odyssey) with an Aboriginal tribe of Australia. Who consider themselves the “Real People” and teaches her “to celebrate the unique talents and inner spirit of each person,” which is real (Inside flap, 1st Ed.). The definitive message: We are far more interdependent than independent, be real!

Myrtle Fillmore’s Healing Letters (Unity Classic Library) by Myrtle Fillmore, Co-founder of Unity Church. After Myrtle Fillmore was miraculously cured of tuberculosis, she and her husband, Charles Fillmore began studying spiritual healing, including the work of Mary Baker Eddy, founder of Christian Science (1879), and ultimately found Unity Church in 1889. Having fully embraced the teachings of A Course in Miracles, today Unity Church is one of ACIM’s ardent supporters, where weekly classes, its books and visiting speakers on the Course are generally offered at most of Unity’s affiliate churches.

Out of My Later Years by Albert Einstein (covers a fifteen year period from 1934 to 1950). In this inspiring collection of essays, Prof. Einstein addresses the most urgent issues of Modern Society: Politics, Religion, Education, Racial Harmony, and World Peace.  Such can best be summed up here, “The Ancients knew something which we seem to have forgotten. All means prove a blunt instrument, if they have not behind them a living spirit. But if the longing for the achievement of the goal is powerfully alive within us, then shall we not lack the strength to find the means for reaching the goal and for translating it into [good] deeds (Chapter 8, p. 24, 1st Ed, 1950).”

People of the Lie: The Hope for Healing Human Evil by M. Scott Peck, M.D. (Jan 2, 1998, 2nd ed.), a unique clinician who significantly linked psychiatry and spirituality in practice. This very healing yet sometimes scary book will blow your mind, particularly if you have ever been outraged by certain “people of the lie.”  Namely, those politicians who repeatedly lie and with impunity, in particular!  “Evil, according to Dr. Peck, is that which kill the spirit. Evil is real and palpable in our lives and must be recognized as such. For only when we recognize evil in its many forms, and call it by name, are we able to heal it (Inside flap, 1986).”

Pilgrim’s Progress: From This World to That Which Is to Come by John Bunyan (c.1678). A Christian classic illustrating the Soul’s journey back to perfection.  Though told in the style of the ancient mythologies, yet expressed in the simplest of allegorical terms.  Sadly, John Bunyan was imprisoned for preaching without a license for over twelve years, yet took advantage of his plight and wrote numerous books including his timeless classic, The Pilgrim’s Progress.

Power of Positive Thinking (et al) by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale (1952). This timeless book is a seminal instruction in the field of “Positive Thinking” that highlights the importance of such for a naturally happy and prosperous life.

Prime Time Blues: African Americans on Network Television by Donald Bogle (Feb 2001), A comprehensive history of African Americans in “prime time” from NBC’s experimental broadcast of the Ethel Waters Show (1939), a one night event, to the popular song and dance shows that virtually energized the new television industry, “almost from the start, the variety shows featured Black guest stars (pp. 13),” to the 1977 groundbreaking miniseries Roots and beyond to Bill Cosby and Oprah, to Cable Television at the end of the millennium, this generous work covers it all.  A must have for easy reference and to read for pure enjoyment.

Reincarnation Unnecessary: Based on the Edgar Cayce Readings by Violet M. Shelley (1982), which reveal that the cycle of reincarnation can be broken!  Widely known as “the Sleeping Prophet,” Edgar Cayce (1877-1945) gave psychic “readings” to thousands of seekers while in an unconscious state, diagnosing illnesses, revealing past lives and prophecies yet to come. In 1931, Cayce found the non-profit Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) to explore spirituality, holistic health, reincarnation and all subjects that frequently came up in the more than 14,000 documented Cayce readings. Today, A.R.E. continues to help people better their lives thru the Cayce readings (online or the on-site library), various programs and kindred materials that seek to manifest the love of God and the connection of body, mind, and spirit.  While terms such as Akashic records, spiritual growth, auras, soul mates and holistic health are now part of the American lexicon (adapted from the Edgar Cayce website, supra).

Right Use of Will: Healing and Evolving the Emotional Body by Ceanne DeRohan (1986): “The Will has for so long been misunderstood, judged against, disciplined, punished and denied that most people no longer even know what the Will really is. Many are now calling positive thinking by the mind Will power. While Mind is the masculine aspect, Will is the feminine aspect of our nature and is experienced as intuition, feeling, emotion, receptivity and desire. This book helps the reader understand what the Will is and how to evolve it from the immaturity that has resulted from long suppression (Book Description, amazon.com).” As to Sex and Children: “Many of the problems on Earth…can be traced to sex without love, or sex with only conditional love. The Spiritual sanctity of sex is not in its right place when sex is treated as something dirty, funny or less than sacred.  …When people have sex together, they open their energy fields to one another and everything they have in their energy fields mingles together.  If there is pain, it is passed back and forth. If there is fear, anger or [guilt] this mingles (pp. 46,1st Ed).”

Road Less Traveled, 25th Anniversary Edition: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth by M. Scott Peck, M.D. (Jan 7, 2003), with more than ten years on the New York Times bestseller list and over twenty-three language translations.  According to Dr. Peck, confronting and solving one’s problems is a painful process, which most tend to avoid thus causing more pain that blocks progress.  Here Dr. Peck suggests ways to confront and resolve our problems so as to reach a higher level of self-understanding (Adapted from back cover of 1978 Ed, paperback).

Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures (Authorized, Trade Ed.) by Mary Baker Eddy (1875, 1st Ed.), founder of Christian Science Church in 1879. Mary Baker Eddy was a reformer, a spiritual healer and teacher who discovered, among other things, that: “The divine Principle of healing is proved in the personal experience of any sincere seeker of truth (Preface, x, 1994 Ed.).”  This book, Science and Health is a sincere reflection of that truth.

Science of Religion by Paramahansa Yogananda (1953), published by Self-Realization Fellowship.  Here Master Yogananda expounds on the true purpose of religion; which is to learn, grow and evolve, thus freeing our self of needless pain and suffering.

Second Coming of Christ, The: The Resurrection of the Christ Within You (2 Vol. Set) by Paramahansa Yogananda (b.1893, d.1952), edited and published by Self-Realization Fellowship (“SRF”), 1st Ed., 2004.  Frankly, I find some of this text quite troubling; thus, a departure from Yoganandaji’s autobiography and self-study lessons for SRF students. While he aptly states it is needless for Jesus to return to earth, as we must realize the Christ within us, still the idea that God created a so-called “Satan” to sway humanity toward upholding His Creation is troubling.  As God has nothing to do with our illusions, which we willingly uphold by denying the truth! This “Satan” idea (pp.142-159ff) seems more akin to Christian fundamentalism than the advance metaphysics I got at SRF Church. A direct disciple of Yogananda, our senior minister was also my spiritual advisor during my eighteen years there. For example, instead of teaching that the “devils” Jesus cast out were real (pp. 395), I clearly recall Brother B saying, from the lectern, that such “devils” were actually “bad habits” that were cast out.  Still, dear reader, you decide.  Overall, SRF teachings are quite beneficial, being the first door through which I passed from depression to freedom so long ago. Though the beloved Paramahansa Yogananda was a highly integrated Master Teacher, still he was just a man, not God.

Sermon on the Mount Gift Edition: The Key to Success in Life (et al) by Emmet Fox (Nov 6, 2012, 1st Ed 1936), legendary “New Thought” lecturer.  Ever wonder where the rousing motto “One Day at a Time” comes from, which is key to Alcoholics Anonymous’ success, clearly the best self-help program ever?  Or, have you ever noticed that AA’s transformative steps to sobriety are actually high spiritual principles in plain wrap, simply called The Twelve Steps?  Well, wonder no longer.  Besides the alcoholic’s own readiness to change, much is owed to Emmet Fox and his classic book, Sermon on the Mount.  Read story here titled, Emmet Fox and Alcoholics Anonymous by Igor S., Hartford, Conn (1996).

Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, The: A Practical Guide to the Fulfillment of Your Dreams by Deepak Chopra (Nov 9, 1994). I like what Deepak says about the Law of Detachment, which helped me during the time of my initial practice of such and still helps. Giving up attachment to things or the outcome of any given situation will immediately set a restless mind at peace; it works every time, that is if we remember!

Strength to Love by Martin Luther King Jr. (Jan 10, 2010): A lovely book of Dr. King’s sermons preached during or after the Montgomery bus boycott, sure to inspire us all.  Foreword: “If there is one book Martin Luther King, Jr. has written that people consistently tell me has changed their lives, it is Strength to Love.  I believe it is because this book best explains the central element of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s philosophy of nonviolence: His belief in a divine, loving presence that binds all life. This belief was the force behind all of my husband’s quests to eliminate social evil. He would often say, ‘Christ gave us the goals and Mahatma Gandhi provided the tactics (Coretta Scott King, 1981, 1st Ed.).’”  This book really helps during difficult times.

The 2500 Adages of Imam Ali  (Forgotten Books) Imam Ali (Author): Ali b. Abi Talib was a direct disciple of the Prophet Muhammad who, then a young boy, was the first male to stand up and recognize the Prophet’s calling.  Arguably, one of Muhammad’s most advanced followers, as was St. John to Jesus, Imam Ali is a monumental figure in Islamic history, who once said: “The greatest wealth is Wisdom. The greatest poverty is stupidity.  People are enemies for what they do not know (Imam Ali).”  Today, most people tend to balk at the word “stupid.”  Sure, ignorance is probably the better word; yet, at times, stupid is what it is!

The Prophet (et al) by Kahlil Gibran (Jun 7, 2011).  Much like a Mozart composition, this book is a miracle.  As young women renting our first apartment, our apartment manager, though a fairly young woman herself, was a highbrow who thought my sister and I should read this book, which we did. And I’ve never been without The Prophet since.  Seems, I understood it then, yet so much more as I grew spiritually.  What a lifelong gift Laura gave us that day.  Being a Kahlil Gibran fan, I now have a nice collection of his work.  To read The Prophet with an open heart, perhaps unknowingly, is to walk with The Great Ones and somehow hear their mighty counsel which gently whispers: “When love beckons to you, follow him, though his ways are hard and steep” (p.11, 1979, 1st Ed 1923).

The Sufis (et al) by Idries Shah (Jan 5, 1964).  “The Sufis are an ancient spiritual freemasonry [a metaphor for rebuilding spiritual awareness using one’s life experiences] whose origins have never been traced or dated. Though commonly mistaken for a Muslim sect, the Sufis are at home in all religions (From the Introduction).”  Of note, some Sufis and religious scholars consider Sufism to be the metaphysical aspect of Islam.  Nonetheless, for me, this book is yet another great moment on the path that seemed to just materialize for me one day and, once again, at the right time!

There’s a Spiritual Solution to Every Problem (et al) by Wayne W. Dyer, Ph.D. (Aug 14, 2003), a well-known psychologist, spiritual teacher and author of many self-help books who often appears on PBS and Oprah. Informed by the “Peace Prayer” of St Francis and other traditions, here Dr. Dryer illustrates that there is, in fact, a Spiritual Presence capable of helping us solve all our problems.

Things Fall Apart (et al) by Chinua Achebe (1959). A classic novel of traditional Ibo life in a Nigerian village before colonialism and Christianity, of note: “The white man came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers…and we have fallen apart (Chap. 21, p. 162).”  Of course, the active word here is “allowed,” as no trickster is completely successful without our help.  Sadly, the beloved author passed on in March of 2013, R.I.P. Dr. Chinua Achebe.

Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies, and Bucks: An Interpretive History of Blacks in American Films, 4th Ed., by Donald Bogle (Oct 24, 2001). A candid history of Blacks in films with a section on the mid-to-late 1990s, which covers the unequaled rise of the new African-American cinema and stars of the era. According to Spike Lee, “Mr. Bogle continues to be our most noted black-cinema historian (Back cover, 4th Ed).”  Sadly, the above title aptly reflects how most Americans then imagined Blacks to be, and how the Hollywood Studios complied.

Way of the Wizard: Twenty Spiritual Lessons for Creating the Life You Want (et al) by Deepak Chopra (Dec 26, 1995): One of the most eloquent speakers (like his voice) and prolific writers in the “New Age” genre, a frequent guest and commentator on Cable news, Oprah, and PBS, most everyone knows of world renowned Deepak Chopra, particularly those of us who have been on the spiritual path, like forever!  This is great book, a fun read and very helpful as usual.

Where Angels Walk by Joan Wester Anderson (Jul 7, 1993). If you believe in angels, then you will enjoy this collection of true stories of Heavenly encounters.  If not, you may find yourself wondering as you continue reading. You may even recall a time when an angel walked beside you (Adapted from Back Cover, 1st Ed).

Where Miracles Happen: True Stories of Heavenly Encounters by Joan Wester Anderson (2009). For some, the possibility of a miracle is remote at best. But to those who have experienced such, miracles are as real as the air we breathe.  Here are forty-five stories of miraculous events and angelic encounters sure to remind us that God is Real (Adapted from Book Description).

Why We Can’t Wait (King Legacy) by Martin Luther King Jr. (Jan 11, 2011). This book eloquently details the Birmingham campaign, then the most racially segregated city in America, and the importance of nonviolence as a strategy.  Thus, Dr. King wrote, “Nonviolence had tremendous psychological importance to the Negro. He had to win and to vindicate his dignity in order to merit and enjoy his self-esteem. This method was grasped by the Negro masses because it embodied the dignity of struggle, of moral conviction and self-sacrifice (Chp. 2, Sec. 3, 1964 Ed).”  When self-sacrifice is allowed to peak though wounded, our primal impulse to maim and destroy dissipates and our affinity to unite and build prevails.

Wine of the Mystic: The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, A Spiritual Interpretation by Paramahansa Yogananda (May 15, 1996), As translated by Edward FitzGerald. In a new interpretation, Paramahansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi, reveals the mystical essence of the most beloved yet least understood poems in English. Oft-thought a celebration of wine and other worldly pleasures, these lyrical Persian quatrains find their true voice in this masterful text (Adapted from Back Cover, 1st Paperback Ed, 1996). My favorite, which, for me, reflects the Soul’s joyful reunion with God after a long and arduous journey: “There was a door to which I found no key; There was a veil past which I could not see; Some little talk awhile of me and Thee; There seem’d, and then no more of Thee and me (Quatrain 32).”

Wisdom of the Ages: by Wayne W. Dyer (Apr 30, 2002): A collection of writings, poems, and sayings by some of the greatest thinkers of the past twenty-five centuries. In his brief essays, Dr. Dyer explains the meaning and context of such wisdom, and how we can actively apply these teachings to our modern lives (Adapted from Inside Flap, 1st Ed. 1998).

William Lloyd Garrison and the Fight Against Slavery: Selections from The Liberator, Edited by William E. Cain (1995): Truly one of America’s unsung heroes. If ever there was an American who steadfastly fought for the dignity and freedom of all Americans, including the slaves whom he called his brothers, it was my hero, the resolute, in-your-face William Lloyd Garrison. In the first issue of his newspaper, named The Liberator, Garrison prints his now famous pledge: “I am in earnest; I will not equivocate; I will not excuse; I will not retreat a single inch; And I will be heard.” And so, for thirty-five years (Jan 1, 1831 to Dec 29, 1865) Garrison keeps his word. Rain or shine, he prints and circulates The Liberator weekly until the day Congress passes the13th Amendment, thus ending slavery!  At once, Garrison retires his press and permanently closes his shop!  Although he continued traveling and speaking on behalf of The Temperance Movement (forerunner of Alcoholics Anonymous) and Women’s Suffrage.

Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype by Clarissa Pinkola Estés (1992), a world renowned poet, gifted storyteller, and psychoanalyst: “Within every woman there is a wild and natural creature, a powerful force, filled with good instincts, passionate creativity, and ageless knowing. Her name is Wild Woman, but she is an endangered species (Inside flap, 1992 Ed).”

Worm in my Tomato, The, by Santos C. Vega, Ph.D. (2007): A first novel inspired by a true story of the Repatriation of a Mexican American Family by the U.S. Government’s Immigration Policies during the Great Depression in 1932. The mother and children were United States citizens; while the father, a Mexican national, had worked in the United States for thirty-eight years.  Here the author, having lived this story, attempts to answer the ever haunting question: Where was God in the life of this family when they made life-changing decisions, suffered and sought deliverance from their bondage?  Dr. Santos C. Vega, Professor Emeritus, Hispanic Research Center, Arizona State University, has taught and directed education programs for over forty-five years, having earned a Ph.D. in Education from ASU and a M.A. in Theology from the University of San Francisco (From Introduction and Back Cover).

Updated, May 3, 2013; Nov. 23, 2015

©2012-2016 Delores L Adams and The Aunt Jemimah Post. All rights reserved.