Taoist Bookshop

Hoff illustrates Taoist thought with extracts from the Winnie the Pooh. This book has now become a classic introduction to Taoism, and is both entertaining and extremely informative. Written in a light, easy to read way, it is the ideal first introduction to Taoism, and comes highly recommended.

This companion book to The Tao Of Pooh is slightly heavier and less humorously written but none the worse for that. It goes into more detail about the specifics of 'te' which is often translated as 'virtue' but has more to do with being true to yourself and not struggling against the tide. Particular emphasis is given to the problems one might encounter on the Taoist path. Hoff does take a rather judgemental viewpoint at times which detracts from the book a little, but it remains a useful and fun read.

The Chronicles of Tao : The Secret Life of a Taoist Master - Deng Ming-Dao; Paperback

The true story of Kwan Saihung, a boy born into a rich Chinese family, who leaves behind his riches for the strict life of a Taoist Monk. Eventually leaving the mountain temple of his master he travels to America where he attempts to understand a culture very different to his own. Full of insight into the Taoist path, and an excellent story in its own right.

Seven Taoist Masters - Eva Wong (trans.); Paperback

A Chinese folk story by an unknown author, telling the tale of 7 students of Taoism seeking enlightenment. Written in a traditional style, with plenty of interesting points on Taoist philosophy and practice.

365 Tao - Deng Ming Dao; Paperback

A one page Taoist meditation for each day of the year. Each has a short poem followed by a brief discussion. Topics vary from the trivial to the profound. You can either dip in and out as you fancy, or read the meditation recommended for the particular day of the year. Highly recommended.

The Writings of Chuang Tzu - Martin Palmer (editor)

A great and widely available translation of the classic writings of Chuang Tzu - a number of proverb like stories that illustrate taoist thought and practices.

Section 2 - Taoist Arts and Related Topics

An excellent guide to the use of Western herbs for medicinal purposes. Individual actions of a large selection of herbs is given and suggested recipes for common conditions. Lovely illustration throughout.

	Healing with Whole Foods - Paul Pitchford
	A hugely detailed book combining 'Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition'. Covering every aspect of nutrition from ancient Chinese and modern scientific viewpoints, with sections on the 5 elements, actions of individual foods and lots of recipes. Essential for anyone interested in diet.

The Martial Arts : Origins, Philosophy, Practice - Peter Lewis; Paperback

An excellent introduction to both internal and external martial arts with a wealth of detail about Martial Arts from around the world. The history and development of the arts are well covered, and enough theory and philosophy is contained to give a good understanding of the topic with only one reading.

A Western oriented book full of information backed up by scientific studies. Both general and specific dietary advice given, with large sections on specific problems and illnesses. A very useful book to keep for reference.

A fantastic beginners guide to Chinese medicine. The author clearly knows his stuff, and puts across the basic theory, as well as more detailed material, in a clear and accessible manner. Covers yin/yang theory, diagnosis methods, meridians and organs, the ‘8 classifications’ and much more. Highly recommended.

For the more serious student of Chinese Medicine, this is a costly but immensely detailed text book covering all aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory in great depth. Covers 5 elements thoery, 8 classifications, detailed decriptions of the energy meridian system and locations and uses of points. Excellent.

E is for Additives - Maurice Hanssen; Paperback

A thorough and well written guide to artificial food additives. Gives common uses and potential side-effects. Excellent.

A really interesting and detailed book. Talks about the influence of the elements, detailed descriptions of the 12 animal signs, characteristics of different years, and compatibility between signs.

The Organic Bible - Bob Flowerdew, Hardback

A superb introduction to organic gardening, with a good explanation of organic principles and detailed information on how to go about putting them into practice yourself. Well written and very informative.

Taoist Bookshop

Section 1 - Taoist Philosophy

Section 2 - Taoist Arts and Related Topics