Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom

John O'Donohue's wisdom and spirit pour through the pages of his simple yet profound gift of "Anam Cara". His words peel back the veil of mystery so often hidden in spiritual writings that try to reveal such depth, but leave one unfulfilled. O'Donohue has shared his heart's wisdom, not a theological discourse. I highly recommend this beautiful treasure that is both the author's philosophy of love and a deep revelation of celtic wisdom and spirituality.

You'll really have to adjust your approach to and expectations for reading when you take up this book. It's not intended to answer your questions or give you a history of Celtic culture. It's really more of a prose poem, meant to support reflection and even meditation. It's postmodern in the sense that it centers on the concept of our deepest desires, but I wouldn't call it New Age as some other reviewers have. Just because something makes connections between traditions from various cultures and times doesn't make it New Age. If you let yourself share in O'Donohue's sense of wonder that similar wisdom arose in places removed from each other in space and time, you will discover the heart of the book.

I first discovered John O'Donohue in Sacred Poetry from Around the World, in which his poems are so relevant to today's concerns. As a mystic and philosopher, he summons up in Anam Cara (soul friend) ancient Celtic wisdom written in the bones of Western culture. A new voice has emerged to take its place beside that of Deepak Chopra. I recommend this book of essays to those who seek wisdom and inspiration in today's fast-paced world.

The writing is exquisite. It feeds the part of me that responds to poetic language. I take time with this book as a gift to myself when my Spirit is feeling parched. Thank you, John, for sharing your word mastery.

I love this book! I would love to give it as a gift to every one of my friends. It has a calming effect and gives much detail to what Anam Cara is.