In 1990 Zukav shifted from science (1980 National Book Award for The Dancing Wu Li Masters
) to the realm of the soul (The Seat of the Soul,
etc.), ultimately scaling the New York Times
bestseller list four times. This new work claims to be written directly from his heart, and the personal, intimate tone fulfills that promise. The first half explores “soul subjects,” or “observations of physical circumstances plus a recognition of what they mean.” The second half answers philosophical ponderings labeled here as “soul questions.” In very brief essays both sections address key subjects: love, fear, choice, responsibility, letting go, trusting life's processes. In Zukav's understanding, we are all attending Earth School, where in repeated incarnations we are given opportunities to fulfill our soul's mission. He cogently asserts that as more of us gain multi-sensory perception—the ability to intuit meaning beyond data gathered by our five senses—we are coming to understand how our choices impact our every moment and therefore our soul's work. Zukav's Green Beret background seems to inform his writing style: blunt, terse, effective, commanding. Rich in insight and compassion, Zukav's advanced efforts will likely zoom to the top again. His probing choice—revenge or compassion—regarding September 11th is alone more than worth the cost of the book. (Oct. 23)
