The Mentalist's Handbook

You know, though I was intrigued as soon as I heard about Clint Marsh's The Mentalist's Handbook (Red Wheel/Weiser), I truly had no idea what to expect out of it.  The subtitle of the book, "An Explorer's Guide to Astral, Spirit, and Psychic Worlds," sounded promising enough, but how seriously would it take itself, and how literally were we talking? 

Well, quite literally in fact.  Throughout the book, Marsh acts as a clear and patient teacher, describing what he calls "The Aetheric Plane," a multi-leveled sphere of energy and consciousness that at once transcends and permeates the world as we know it.  Yes, this tome is precisely what it says it is:  a travel guide (maps included), a bestiary (with pictures and descriptions of "aetheric beings"), and, most importantly, a step-by-step instruction manual for how to have one's own aetheric adventures.  Through the use of meditation exercises and visualizations, Marsh encourages the reader to expand her mind and explore this (not quite) terrain. 

Does it work?  Truth be told, I would need to start the book afresh and dedicate much time and energy into actually going through all of the exercises.  Make no mistake, this is an actual training course to start you learning a technique that takes years of practice to master.  I will say that Marsh's methods are based upon the very sorts of meditation and lucid thinking which mystics of all cultures have been utilizing throughout history.  I will also say that it is a very enjoyable read, with a friendly, encouraging tone, crystal clear instructions, and gorgeous illustrations by Jeff Hoke (himself the creator of another magical book I cannot recommend enough, The Museum of Lost Wonder ).

Marsh and Hoke are frequent collaborators who both aim to make the esoteric accessible, inspiring, and fun.  I encourage you to read their books, as well as the other pamphlets and projects put out by Clint Marsh's delightful imprint, Wonderella. 

Comments

[James McDowell]

I ordered the book.. I will let you know what I think after I read it...