The Book of Householder Koans

"The only real Zen is the Zen of our actual lived lives. Zen's koans are stories that take us to where we really live, that show us who we are when we let go of the false stories we've been trapped within. The collections of these true stories, which open our hearts, started in China. And China gave us many that we cherish to this day. Others come from Korea and Vietnam and Japan. And now, in The Book of Householder Koans, we are given a selection collected from four Western countries by two preeminent American Zen masters. And this is real Zen. These are the true stories of who we have always been from before the creation of the stars and planets. This is Zen made out of our bones and marrow, our tears and laughter. This amazing book is one of a handful written in this time that will be recalled as classics of our way. If you've never practiced Zen, read this book. If Zen has been your way for 40 years, read this book. It opens our way and reminds us of where to find it. The Book of Householder Koans is a direct pointing to our heart's longing. True stories." -James Ishmael Ford, author of Introduction to Zen Koans and If You're Lucky, Your Heart Will Break