The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff Review

 

* This review is spoiler-free *

4.75/5 ⭐

Blurb

Winnie-the-Pooh has a certain way about him, a way of doing things that has made him the world's most beloved bear, and Pooh's Way, as Benjamin Hoff brilliantly demonstrates, seems strangely close to the ancient Chinese principles of Taoism.

Best Quote From the Book

“From the states of the Uncarved Block comes the ability to enjoy the simple and the quiet, the natural and the plain."

My Thoughts

I of course have a major warm feeling for this one due to the inclusion of Winnie the Pooh (which always adds a quarter star for me lol). But I have to give it a lot of credit for how thoughtful of a comparison it makes. I never would've thought that a willy, nilly, silly, old bear would make a fantastic mascot for an ancient method of thought, but here we are. 

This one took me a longgggg time to get through because the moments of reflection and many concepts I was previously unaware of required me to put the book down a few times for long intervals just to really wrap my head around it. I enjoyed my time with it, and how it expanded my mind. While I will be first to admit that I do no agree with every aspect of Taoism, I feel like I could still incorporate a few pillars from it into my life.

I also have to applaud the pacing of this one. It did not feel rushed nor drawn out and took the time to properly explain all concepts the average reader is unlikely previously familiar with. A memorable and worthwhile read for sure!