Michele (luluinphilly) -
Helpful Score: 14
Just like with "The Power of Now," Eckhart Tolle just rambles and rambles on. He writes just like he talks. If you've ever seen any of his videos, he's very quiet-spoken, laughs at his own bizarre jokes and references, and drones on without taking a breath. I bought this book for a book club I signed-up for but all they did was watch his inane videos and never discussed the book. I lasted one week. This book didn't awaken anything in me. In fact, it put me to sleep! Also, I removed the big O sticker on the cover because I don't like Oprah. GASP! Shocking, I know.
Linda E. (uncbballfan) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 14
Be fully present in the current moment. So many people these days are stressed out because of what's happened in the past, or what they think may or may not happen in the future that they do not fully appreciate the present. And the present moment is really all we have. Reading this book has made me aware, or has awakened me to the present moment. It is my hope that others will receive a spiritual awakening by reading "A New Earth." It is not meant to change your religious beliefs - it is meant to enhance them.
Anna M. (chickpea) -
Helpful Score: 8
I started this book hoping for more. I was disappointed to find the way the author misquoted and misrepresented world religions to make them fit his philosophy. It was such a turn off that I quit reading it. Maybe his own philosophy is good, I just never got past the misrepresentations that he claimed to base it on. Not for me, but clearly Oprah likes it!
Helpful Score: 7
I got this book to participate in Oprah's book club and webcast last year. I though it would help me to gain better insights on my life and start the new year off on a good foot. Well i spent most of the time disagreeing with the book and Eric;s views. I feel I am a good person and more importantly a good Christian. I;m not so sure what faith he belives in, it sounds sort of mystical and creepy at some points of the book. Well I did finish the book and the webcast. But I must say that the writing assignments were the things that helped me become more intouch with myself more that the book and watching Eric & Oprah talk about the book.
Mary Ann W. (MrsLoveBug) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 5 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 7
I couldn't get through this book at all. I found it so dense and the author just beat every point to death so that it could not hold my attention at all. I gave the audio book a try because of all the hype about this book changing your life, but I almost fell asleep in the car! Usually, I am very open to this type of read and to new age thinking, but I was sorry that I could not get into this one.
Helpful Score: 5
I think the book was insightful and down to earth good. If the people who reviewed the book and hated it were ready or open to such wisdom theyed have "gotten" it. Some people would rather cling to religion and not hear any other views..I love Eckhart's books..
Helpful Score: 4
One of the best books I have read so far. Definitely a must have, if you have a library of personal collections. Having born in India, I have read many books on spirituality and have had my share of time spent on listening to Mystic gurus from that area. This book was a great summation of various points that I had heard, collected over time, but very well presented in a concise manner and also shook some of my beliefs in a good way.
Keep in mind, the book could be confusing, if you try to read it quickly. Read very slowly, ponder over the contents, don't accept directly all that is said, but spend time in mulling over them and let it percolate over time.
Overall a great book. I enjoyed it. If possible, read it along with your friends, spouse and discuss the contents.
There are people who may have been disappointed by the book, but that is okay. Just like anything else in life, the object or event itself is not good or bad, we get to assign a label, based on our own perspective and how we view things.
No one needs to agree with the author, but have an open mind and look at it with a fresh perspective. I would request the reader, not to look for confirmations of what they already know, not to try to agree or disagree with the author but rather just offer your plain and simple open mind & listen, you will find value.
Keep in mind, the book could be confusing, if you try to read it quickly. Read very slowly, ponder over the contents, don't accept directly all that is said, but spend time in mulling over them and let it percolate over time.
Overall a great book. I enjoyed it. If possible, read it along with your friends, spouse and discuss the contents.
There are people who may have been disappointed by the book, but that is okay. Just like anything else in life, the object or event itself is not good or bad, we get to assign a label, based on our own perspective and how we view things.
No one needs to agree with the author, but have an open mind and look at it with a fresh perspective. I would request the reader, not to look for confirmations of what they already know, not to try to agree or disagree with the author but rather just offer your plain and simple open mind & listen, you will find value.
Mitzi G. (mitzilsg) - reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 60 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
Really Really tried to read this book since everyone is talking about it, but it was a little long hair for me and I really couldn't get into it. I'm not much of a self help book person, I'm sure it's a great book, I just couldn't dig it. I'm more of a mystery/thriller/romance/paranormal type of reader.
Helpful Score: 3
"A New Earth" expands the spiritual philosophy of Eckhart Tolle, who introduced his outlook in "The Power of Now". Mr. Tolle attempts to explain the "meaning of life" through the development of consciousness and recognition of the ego that misleads human behavior. He urges individuals to accomplish this by stilling the incessant mind chatter of the ego to become aware of the silent universal source of creation. Once awareness is accomplished, peace will result. Mr. Tolle describes this growth of individual consciousness as the means by which spiritual evolution will collectively occur. Ultimately, as more people achieve "awareness", a spiritual shift will result. Using words from the Christian Bible, Mr. Tolle says "a new earth" will evolve from collective spiritual growth.
From many faiths, Eckhart Tolle draws from the beliefs common among them to build his account of spiritual evolution. He writes with respect for all religions and most often references the Bible, quoting Jesus to support his ideas. His interpretation of life's purpose is may be difficult to anyone who has had limited exposure to a variety religious traditions. Mr. Tolle's interpretation of life's purpose is compatible with most religious views because it is based on universal truths contained within them. For example, the concept of the Golden Rule: 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you' is a truth that is embraced by most faiths.
As a spiritual "seeker", I found this book to be well developed, clearly worded, and written in a very readable style. The challenge of this book is to look inward and test its message against the reader's own experience and belief system. It is not a book for everyone but reader's like myself will find much to consider. The author has assembled powerful view of life's purpose and meaning. It is up to the individual reader to decide if it has meaning for them.
From many faiths, Eckhart Tolle draws from the beliefs common among them to build his account of spiritual evolution. He writes with respect for all religions and most often references the Bible, quoting Jesus to support his ideas. His interpretation of life's purpose is may be difficult to anyone who has had limited exposure to a variety religious traditions. Mr. Tolle's interpretation of life's purpose is compatible with most religious views because it is based on universal truths contained within them. For example, the concept of the Golden Rule: 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you' is a truth that is embraced by most faiths.
As a spiritual "seeker", I found this book to be well developed, clearly worded, and written in a very readable style. The challenge of this book is to look inward and test its message against the reader's own experience and belief system. It is not a book for everyone but reader's like myself will find much to consider. The author has assembled powerful view of life's purpose and meaning. It is up to the individual reader to decide if it has meaning for them.
Helpful Score: 3
If you like New Age stuff, this might be for you. If not, this book will not answer the world's unanswered questions. Although it has some strong points, it is a long and heavy read. Eckhart Tolle has made millions and millions and I am wondering how he shares his wealth with the not so fortunate.
Helpful Score: 2
I found this book to be quite insightful and was surprised at some of the negative reviews. However, if you are looking for a quick, entertaining read, you will probably not like this book. This book goes deep into why we act and react the way we do and suggests a better way of thinking and being. I found it helpful to read this book in small doses so I could think about what the author was trying to convey and really absorb what he was saying. This book helped me realize how our emotions and egos affect the way we behave, react to, and see the world around us. I recommend this book as it gives you a lot to think about.
Helpful Score: 2
Oprah wasn't wrong about this one. How often have you read a book that promised spiritual revelation only to be dealt a mumbo-jumbo of psycho-bobble? But here, the genuineness and straight forward simplicity of Tolle's message is self-evident within the first few pages. Not to be missed.
Helpful Score: 1
I am not surprised that several reviewers did not find Eckart Tolle helpful. Most of us are looking for "food for thought". In fact, when I heard that Oprah had recommended his book, I immediately felt on some level that this was not necessarily a good thing. I had been passing through a very dark time in my life when I first became acquainted with Tolle. I happened to check out a Tolle audio recording at the local library. As I began to listen to the material over a period of several days, little glimmers of light began to break through Then, suddenly, the flood lights came on. Dang! I was in the position of a very hungry man, lost in a dark and gloomy forest, suddenly coming an opening in the trees, there is a beautiful field of flowers and light. In the midst of the field is a table set for a feast! Thank you Eckhart!
I appreciate the role this book has played in enlarging the spiritual truth of my own faith...since I am a follower and friend of Christ. Nothing Eckhart speaks about in anyway degrades or demeans. I must add that this is not a book you "read". You study, contemplate, write, ask questions, and generally, struggle. It is very intense work.....and, well worth every effort. Jesus lamented his inability to communicate His complete intentions to those closes to him.. His disciples just could not get through the barriers of their cultural blindness to understand this wonderful man. . They were unlettered men and women, farmers and fishermen for the most part. He said that "you are not able to receive what I want to teach you at this time. others would come after me, who would enlarge upon his teachings. ' I think that perhaps Tolle is one of those teachers. There have been many others and hopefully, many more to come. How about Deepack Chopra, Janusz Korczak, Mariama Williamson, Noam Chomsky, Howard Zinn, Scott Peck and so many other truth tellers?
This is the kind of book you must leave alone from time to time, and then, revisit from time to time. My experience has been that fresh insights are bound to come. Good luck. I would suggest for those who have found little or no value in his writings, to put the book on the shelf and wait. Perhaps a year or even ten years from now the book might begin to speak to you.
I appreciate the role this book has played in enlarging the spiritual truth of my own faith...since I am a follower and friend of Christ. Nothing Eckhart speaks about in anyway degrades or demeans. I must add that this is not a book you "read". You study, contemplate, write, ask questions, and generally, struggle. It is very intense work.....and, well worth every effort. Jesus lamented his inability to communicate His complete intentions to those closes to him.. His disciples just could not get through the barriers of their cultural blindness to understand this wonderful man. . They were unlettered men and women, farmers and fishermen for the most part. He said that "you are not able to receive what I want to teach you at this time. others would come after me, who would enlarge upon his teachings. ' I think that perhaps Tolle is one of those teachers. There have been many others and hopefully, many more to come. How about Deepack Chopra, Janusz Korczak, Mariama Williamson, Noam Chomsky, Howard Zinn, Scott Peck and so many other truth tellers?
This is the kind of book you must leave alone from time to time, and then, revisit from time to time. My experience has been that fresh insights are bound to come. Good luck. I would suggest for those who have found little or no value in his writings, to put the book on the shelf and wait. Perhaps a year or even ten years from now the book might begin to speak to you.
Harshika N. (harshi) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely LOVED this book. And I love Eckhart, and I loved the webcasts with Oprah and him. This is the first book I have read from him. Then I purchased The Power of Now (which I also liked a lot). I plan to delve and re-delve in his books to really absorb the thoughts. I am so eager to read all his works!! Might not be for everyone, depending on whether they want or feel ready to absorb this info, but if you have a spiritual bent of mind or want exposure to some deep thoughts, go for it. I totally recommend this book. It has played and will keep playing an influential role in my life.
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely love this book. I think Tolle is magnificent. I watched the podcast classes that go along with each chapter and I enjoyed that too. This book has helped me view my life in a very different way. It is an eye opener.
Haley S. (haleystewart) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 32 more book reviews
I really enjoyed working my way through this one, but it was work. I recommend this to everyone!
This book helps anyone discover yourself being. It's great for those looking for the answers inside oneself. This is a simple and easy read.
Great for some. Old news for me.
Mary (grammyteach) -
I was not that inspired by this book & found it did not hold my attention
I found that the way of thinking that was presented in this book was really good and actually made me consider how my thoughts work and how I might change experiences that I have in my life completely by just thinking about things a different way. However, I did find that it was a tough read and I had to take it in sections - read a little here and there - vs. reading it all straight through in one shot.
fascinating book. even better than the power of now
Gift Copy! A wake-up call for the entire planet . . . [A New Earth] helps us to stop creating our own suffering and obsessing over the past and what the future might be, and to put ourselves in the now..
With his bestselling spiritual guide The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle inspired millions of readers to discover the freedom and joy of a life lived in the now.; In A New Earth, Tolle expands on these powerful ideas to show how transcending our ego-based state of consciousness is not only essential to personal happiness, but also the key to ending conflict and suffering throughout the world. Tolle describes how our attachment to the ego creates the dysfunction that leads to anger, jealousy, and unhappiness, and shows readers how to awaken to a new state of consciousness and follow the path to a truly fulfilling existence.
Illuminating, enlightening, and uplifting, A New Earth is a profoundly spiritual manifesto for a better way of life ;and for building a better world.
With his bestselling spiritual guide The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle inspired millions of readers to discover the freedom and joy of a life lived in the now.; In A New Earth, Tolle expands on these powerful ideas to show how transcending our ego-based state of consciousness is not only essential to personal happiness, but also the key to ending conflict and suffering throughout the world. Tolle describes how our attachment to the ego creates the dysfunction that leads to anger, jealousy, and unhappiness, and shows readers how to awaken to a new state of consciousness and follow the path to a truly fulfilling existence.
Illuminating, enlightening, and uplifting, A New Earth is a profoundly spiritual manifesto for a better way of life ;and for building a better world.
This is one of those books that set you on a new path in life. Thank you.
I have read the book twice now and listened to the book on CD - each time I get something different out of it (it all depends on where you're at with your own journey as to what you get)... When I first read it I just had to go through quickly and be ok with the fact that some of it was hard to wrap my head around. Now I just find it very affirming and a very good reminder that helps me to be more present, more peaceful, and more sane in a world that doesn't tend to like to be that way!
Wonderful information. If everyone truly lived these principles, given to us my many Masters, the world would be a peaceful place.
Love this book... was very moved by Tolle's insights and stories. It will make you think about life in a different way, but does not necessarily conflict with your religious views. Will be re-reading this again this summer. Highly recommended.
Great Book, it's definitely one to keep on your bookshelf!!!
This is one of my favorite books! It makes complex ideas easy to understand.I recommend it to anyone seeking the Truth.
Interesting points we can learn about ourselves as individuals and how we fit together as a whole. Not deep enough to change my religious beliefs, but I can definitely use some pointers on how I handle situations.
WANDA C. (rubuhroom) -
Read as a refresher. The basis of this book is to keep your ego out of your decision-making.
Bonnie S. (Bonnie) -
I had full intentions of liking this book, and so I am disappointed and surprised at how boring I found it. Well, found as much as I could read. Perhaps it is because there is nothing new in the world of New Age. Or that he is just another author lucky enough to not only get published, but have Oprah or one of her staff love and promote the book. All he had to do is add some words, rehash what everyone else is saying, throw in an anecdote... If I ever planned on reading another one of these books, I'd stick with Dyer.
Great insights, so helpful if you want to live a better life.
so bad, I couldn't even finish the book
Tolle's teaching arises from a mÃstical experience which he describes in The Power of Now introduction, his 10 years learning trips, another ten years teaching his findings and his personal experiences. We, who as him had had hard upbringing experiences which affected our thinking and emotional processes can relate and perceive the descriptions he makes of the human minds situation and it's consequences for planet and all its inhabitants. We have also find appropriate the way he presents to come out of that madness. He also tries to bridge the good that is embedded in the different spiritual teachings. It isn't an easy book though so I can understand why is unpalatable to some people.
Jane W. (janiereads) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 2 more book reviews
Love Love Love it!
Thank you!
Thank you!
beautiful book. points you towards inner peace in a way that other books don't.
Amalia G. (amalia28) - , reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 3 more book reviews
As I started to read this book it bored me. So, I ordered the CD's. It starts off slow. However, I finally understood that it is not a book which could provide instant gratification. It is a book that tests your intellectual qualities to understand a world in an abstract way. According to Mr. Tolle, this may be hard for all of us who can only understand our world through our five senses.
Overall, I enjoyed it. I will be re-reading it over the summer to highlight quotes I consider to be inspirational.
Overall, I enjoyed it. I will be re-reading it over the summer to highlight quotes I consider to be inspirational.
Belinda P. (bookbug) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 22 more book reviews
I absolutely love this book (and also The Power of Now)!!
I plan on reading it over and over again in order to apply it to my life situation. I am working at it everyday with wonderful results. I highly recommend this book. If at first you don't get it, don't despair. All you need is to be open to it. The rest will take care of itself! Peace.
I plan on reading it over and over again in order to apply it to my life situation. I am working at it everyday with wonderful results. I highly recommend this book. If at first you don't get it, don't despair. All you need is to be open to it. The rest will take care of itself! Peace.
I really didn't see why all the hype on this book from Oprah.
Rita L. (islandsoul) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 13 more book reviews
I think this book is only popular because Oprah had it on her show. His philosophy is boring. He takes all the "good stuff" from all the other religions and makes his own. Of course Oprah likes it...she beleives in anything!!
Good luck.
Meghan M. (MKMitchell) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 13 more book reviews
Going back and forth between this book, Conversations with God and Law of Attraction. I'm truly enjoying how all three compliment and enhance each other.
i am a christian..and this book helped me..more than helped me. it changed the way i approached everything. and even though i do not believe in his version of what God is..there was so much i took from this book..and in many ways because of the book i now have a true appreciation for my beliefs.
I'm new age and a therapist, but I couldn't get into this book. Seemed very wordy and vague. However, differing from other viewpoints,I did not perceive it as anti-Christian or anti-religion. The book gets its own designation in the book genre ... be that good, bad or somewhere in between.
Wow, I had a hard time reading this book. I don't know why so many people rave about it. Great book for those having trouble falling asleep...
Terri K. (GrammyTerri) -
blah, blah, blah too much psychobabble for me.
Jim W. (jimwillisca) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 2 more book reviews
This philosophical work really made me think. I intend to read it at least once more and, this time, take notes on it.
This book was extemely eye opening.
Belinda P. (bookbug) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 22 more book reviews
Five stars!!!!!!!!!!
What can I say about Tolle's message .....profound, powerful, life altering, simple and beautiful!!!!!!
What can I say about Tolle's message .....profound, powerful, life altering, simple and beautiful!!!!!!
Very similar to books that were written before his time. But this book is a good one if you are just getting into spirituality.
Charlene Roberta T. reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 14 more book reviews
It wasn't as good as I expected. A little boring for me.
Better than I thought it would be...........some food for thought.
I did not finish this and it was a difficult read for me to want to continue...I did not really get it.
Christy (booklover4lyfe) reviewed A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on + 4 more book reviews
as soon as I found out what this book was about and that he and Oprah are against Christianity I have decided to put the book up for someone else to read it. I have seen several things on youtube featuring Oprah and Eckhart Tolle and it goes against what I beleave as Christian.
