Squamish alpinist and Buddhist practitioner Michael Schauch launched his new book Anattā: Heart of Wisdom at a fully booked community event at the Brackendale Art Gallery on Wednesday evening, according to a news release.
The evening featured readings by Schauch, a dialogue and audience question-and-answer session hosted by Julie Wilkins of Gather Books, food by Zephyr Cafe and music by local group Riverbank Roses.
The book, published by Hohm Press, brings together contemplative essays and poetry that explore anatta, the Buddhist idea of non self, as an answer to uncertain and polarizing times, the release says.
Schauch draws on Himalayan journeys, sky caves and backyard campfires to argue that immersing ourselves in nature can restore connection and loving kindness, and that resolving conflict with others begins with resolving conflict within.
The book has drawn praise from prominent authors. Sharon Salzberg says Schauch “writes about liberation, not through escape but through intimacy with life as it is.” Ken Wilber calls it “a beautiful presentation of what the Buddhists call shunyata, an ultimate Nonduality.” Bernadette McDonald writes that it “feels like shelter in challenging times.”
BlueInk Review gave it a starred review comparing his observations to Thich Nhat Hanh and Pema Chödrön, and Kirkus Reviews describes the writing as “often gorgeous.”
Anattā: Heart of Wisdom is now available online and in bookstores, including local Squamish and Sea to Sky shops. More information is at michaelschauch.com.
