The Secret of Shambhala

The Celestine Prophesy was one of the most influential New Age books of the last couple of decades, easily outstripping earlier cult books such as Robert Persig's Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance and Carlos Castenada's Don Juan books. The nine Insights of James Redfield's first book were added to by a second book, Tenth Insight and now by an 11th in The Secret of Shambhala.

Books of this type have often had a certain ambiguity: are they supposed to be taken as factual accounts or as allegorical novels? Redfield's publishers are describing this one as "the new novel", and (probably to the disappointment of the book's many thousands of fans) The Celestine Prophesy as his "first novel". Fiction they are, then, but the word "novel" is perhaps misleading; these books are allegorical tall tales teaching tenets of practical philosophy: look out for coincidences in your life because synchronicities are meaningful.

The 11th Insight is about the power of prayer or positive thinking or affirmation; the book mentions recent studies which indicate that patients who are prayed for heal more rapidly than those who are not. If you think positive thoughts, these will affect people around you in a good way; if you are full of anger and fear, you will attract precisely those things you most dread.

The hard-bitten and cynical will see this book as yet another example of New Age psychobabble but for Redfield's many followers the teachings in this book will make a great deal of sense--and in any case, having a positive, loving attitude can only bring good. --David V. Barrett

View other editions of The Secret of Shambhala.
View books by James Redfield.

Not as good as his others - Rated
I thought this book was a really good read that went off on one abit towards the end,in the same way his other book the Tenth insight did.
Its still a worthwhile read but in no way anywhere near as good as The Celestine Prophecy.

More Spiritual Insights - Rated
James Redfield continues to offer more spiritual insights after writing "The Celestine Prophecy" and "The Tenth Insight: Holding the Vision" which are two fabulous books on spiritual adventure and transformation.

This book is the Eleventh Insight and takes place in Tibet and we are offered a glimpse of a spiritual worldview that holds harmony between people and nature, and where spirituality guides all aspects of life. It isn't something you do on certain days but it is lived in daily interactions. "Way of the Peaceful Warrior: A Book That Changes Lives" is also another wonderful book.

All these books offer a vision for a new world based on higher spiritual principles. A current book that furthers the spiritual vision is called "Nexus: A Neo Novel." We can share in its insights and let our friends know about it. Through these inspiring books we can change lives.

Inspired work by James Redfield - Rated
Without doubt the best of James Redfield's Celestine Prophesy series. Gripping, thought provoking, meaningful. If you're at all interested in personal and spiritual development and human evolution, this is a "must read"

can't believe so few people have stuff to say ! - Rated
The earlier books from this author stand as clear uncomplicated works that reflect what so many people are becoming aware of in this moment in history. As another reviewer commented: sort of beginners guides. But no less important.

I almost expected this book book to be more of the same: irresistible and familiar. But its sooo not.

I found myself on a journey into a maze of ideas that were forming in my mind, but that had not quite come into focus. The Secret of Shambhala nudged these ideas into fuller view and so helped move onto my next step.

If you read any one of Redfields other books and they felt familiar to you. Or if they inspired you to look at where we are headed and to explore new ideas....then I recommend this one..defo !!

A must for self and life transformation to continue - Rated
If you have read J.Redfield's previous books and have been inspired like I have to put the words in your hands into practise(very difficult indeed but a worthwhile effort),then this book should be added to your list.It has a similar message like its predecessors with a sense of adventure,refreshing enthusisam and at the same time imparts gems of wisdom to ponder over..A very satisfying read indeed.Highly recommended for spiritual fiction addicts!