August 26, 2019
Through letters composed to a close friend after his death, Warner (Hardcore Zen) provides an intimate, candid reflection of his Zen practice and his career as a writer and speaker in this touching work. When Warner arrived in Germany for a Zen speaking tour in 2017, he learned that his close friend Marky Moon had died of cancer. Memories of Marky and reports of his touring experience serve as launching pads for a basic exploration of Zen Buddhist teachings on impermanence, attachment, and practice, as well as commentary on contemporary questions about the status of Zen Buddhism as a religion, sexual misconduct by Buddhist teachers, and the role of wealth and power in Buddhist institutions. Warner attempts to merge the genres of fictionalized memoir and religious/spiritual primer, which can be awkward and disorganized. Honest and forthright, Warner’s trademark irreverent voice is present throughout: “There’s still real punk and real metal out there if you look for it. Same with Zen... Luckily I got introduced to Zen by one of its wild men.” Those who are grieving may be the best audience for Warner’s close study .
August 30, 2019
Zen teacher, blogger, and punk rock bassist Warner (It Came from Beyond Zen!) presents an approachable introduction to Zen. Framed as letters to a friend who recently passed away, the work explains the basics of Zen and Warner's coming to terms with the grief he's experiencing. For the author, Zen is an attitude that strives for honesty and realism, providing the tools that help us to understand the truth. Because of this, Warner is unafraid of sharing his own beliefs and doubts and freely questions Buddhism itself. While loaded with pop culture references and dark humor, his explanations of Zen philosophy is steeped in tradition, well researched, and ultimately respectful of the practice. All the expected points are addressed: the life of the Buddha, the evolution of Zen in Japan, the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, and koans. The author also addresses contemporary issues such as drugs, cultural appropriation, and scandals in the Zen community. VERDICT Warner's voice is much needed in American Buddhism. Readers seeking a straightforward explanation of the religious aspects with a critical eye toward the mystical will be grateful for his insights.--Anitra Gates, Erie Cty. P.L., PA
Copyright 2019 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.