The Active Life: A Spirituality of Work, Creativity, and Caring

I have read all of the books by Parker Palmer. A Hidden Wholeness is my favorite. The Active Life is my second choice of all of his books. There is a lot of repetition in his various books. If you are actively involved in charity work, then this is a very good book to read. It discusses why you might take on a seemingly impossible project like housing the homeless and the need to take time to go on retreats to recharge your batteries and how to figure out your natural birth right gifts. Parker Palmer quotes Thomas Merton many times and then adds his Quaker views on how to implement Merton's ideas. Parker Palmer has taught me a lot about the Quakers and the advantages of living in a communal community. He is very honest about the good and bad parts of being a Quaker.

I have enjoyed numerous books by Parker Palmer, with 'The Active Life' being my favorite. Parker tackles traditional concepts of spirituality being monastic or inner-driven, and offers up compelling rebuttals to show that taking charge of one's daily life in an active manner is equally - or, depending on who you are and what you do, more important. To call this book a life-changer is not hyperbole.

Inspiring, and finally a book on living out Christian faith that doesn't assume everyone is wired the same way. Excellent!!!!

Each chapter in The Active Life challanges one to think beyond the surface. The words are familiar but Parker Palmer presents the material in such a way that fresh meaning causes one to question the "norm" that one has accepted. This is a book to be savored slowly, to muse upon, to reread with new questions. It is a book that calls one to grow spiritually.

Easy to read, offers great insights for those of us who need a spirituality that consists of more than prayer and meditation.

Very difficult to read; disappointing because I love Parker Palmer!

A midlife crisis book for PP. Some lovely spots in it, but coming from a place of despair.

This book helps to answer questions about your inner feelings, and is highly recommened for anyone.

A wonderful book - full of wisdom and authenticity

This book has already been read and marked by someone when I received it.If it's a second hand copy it should be mentioned in the description.

Parker Palmer has, once again, written a considered, thoughtful accessible book. Well worth the purchase.