"No one has done better in conveying Lao Tsu's simple and laconic style of writing, so as to produce an English version almost as suggestive of the many meanings intended. This is a most useful, as well as beautiful, volume--and what it has to say is exactly what the world, in its present state, needs to hear." - Alan Watts
RELIGION/ EASTERN STUDIES
The "Tao Te Ching, " the esoteric but infinitely practical book written most probably in the sixth century B.C. by Lao Tsu, has been translated more frequently than any work except the Bible. This translation of the Chinese classic, which was first published twenty-five years ago, has sold more copies than any of the others. It offers the essence of each word makes Lao Tsu's teaching immediate and alive.
The philosophy of Lao Tsu is simple: Accept what is in front of you without wanting the situation to be other than it is. Study the natural order of things and work with it rather than against it, for to try to change what "is" only sets up resistance. Nature provides for all without discrimination--therefore let us present the same face to everyone and treat all men as equals, however they may be have. If we watch carefully, we will see that work proceeds more quickly and easily if we stop looking for results. In the clarity of a still and open mind, truth will be reflected. We will come to appreciate the original meaning of the word "understand," which means "to stand under." We serve whatever or whoever stands before us, without any thought for ourselves. "Te--"which may be translated as "virtue" or "strength"--lies always in "Tao," or "natural law." In other words: Simply be.

This book on -interior housekeeping- illuminates the true measure of a life lived in terms of usefulness and integrity rather than accomplishment or possessions. With subtle wit, wonderfully evocative language, and clear-eyed wisdom gleaned from her own experience, Toinette Lippe teaches us how to discern what is essential and let go of what is not.Toinette Lippe had a long and distinguished career at Alfred A. Knopf. In 1989, she founded Bell Tower, where she published seventy books that nourished the soul and spoke directly to the heart. After fifty years in publishing, Toinette abandoned editorial work and devotes herself to East Asian brush painting. She lives in New York City.

""Caught in the Act "is about surrender. . . . The book is unconventional in form and manner, and is told in a brisk, conversational style that's immediate and engaging. It has a mystery and beauty all its own." Robert Leiter, "Jewish Exponent""Caught in the Act "is a memoir of daily living in which Lippe brings us on a journey of awareness so that we perceive how being, knowing, and doing shape our daily existence.Born in London, Toinette Lippe had a long and distinguished career at Alfred A. Knopf. In 1989 she founded Bell Tower, where she published seventy books that nourished the soul, illuminated the mind, and spoke directly to the heart."