Origin

Origin by Dan Brown, 461 pages 

This is the fifth book that stars Robert Langdon. This time it is set in Spain. The formula is much the same involving Robert solving a mystery along with a female companion while being chased. The Catholic Church is involved along with the royal family of Spain. Religion in general is also a theme. This one does not involve as much interpretation of symbols.

Edmond Kirsch is a former student of Robert's who has become rich through technology. He has a major discovery to reveal to the world that has implications for all religions. Before revealing his discovery to the world he reveals it to three prominent religious leaders but vows them to secrecy.

Kirsch is going to present this discovery to the world at the Guggenheim museum in Spain and has invited Robert along with about three hundred other people. During his presentation, he is assassinated. Now it is up to Robert to reveal his discovery before whoever killed Kirsch can stop him. One of the religious leaders  is a Catholic bishop. Signs point to him being behind it or possibly someone in the royal family. Of course, there are some twists.

It is formulaic but I still found it a quick and enjoyable read. It got me interested in exploring the work of William Blake and Antoni Gaudi.

Why Buddhism Is True

Why Buddhism Is True: The Science and Philosophy of Meditation and Enlightenment by Richard Wright, 321 pages




The title of this book is misleading. Even the subtitle of the book doesn't provide enough clarity. That may turn some away that might be interested once they started reading the book. It may interest those that have an interest in philosophy and psychology.


Wright is not talking about reincarnation or gods that Buddhists worship. He is focused on whether meditation does what it says it does and if attaining enlightenment is possible. In doing so, he looks at the Self and "who" or "what" is in control as well as feelings.


Wright uses evolution, especially evolutionary psychology, to show how science is proving the efficacy of meditation.


Wright uses personal examples of his experience with meditation (not always successful) to illustrate his points and provide clarity to what he is trying to say.


I have read multiple books and articles on Buddhism and specific components such as meditation and the self. I found that even despite reading all those things that Wright provided a different level of clarity that I didn't have before.