This book is an attempt 'to explain the Quaker way, as far as that is possible'. It is a distinctive way and, though perhaps no better than others, it has its own integrity and effectiveness. Although it is fairly well known, Quakerism is not well understood, so the purpose of this book is to make it intelligible, to explain how it works as a spiritual practice and why it has adopted the particular practices it has. It is aimed primarily at non-Quakers, who may nonetheless be interested to know what Quakerism is about. c2. From Tom's Collection

The back cover tells us that this book is "aimed primarily at non-Quakers, who may nonetheless be interested to know what Quakerism is about." In the introduction, the author feels that "many people today are interested in Quakerism because of the profound possibilities it offers," also that "many Quakers have still not found that depth themselves, though they came to Quakers looking for just that." Still others "who have found what they were looking for, may be lost for words when asked to explain what that is." He goes on to say that his own long struggle to find the depth he was looking for motivates him to communicate his understanding to others. Inquirers and newcomers, as well as members and attenders both new and seasoned, may all find this short, easy-to-read book useful. The seven chapters, which can be read in any order, are entitled Finding the truth, Looking for God, Meeting others, Making decisions, Living faithfully, Bearing witness, and Changing things. In addition, there are five helpful appendices, which expand on some of the chapters, as well as notes, references, and suggestions for further reading, all of which point to a number of other texts, including some of the Quaker classics, that will keep the curious reader busy for a long time. Ambler's clear thinking and fine communication skills contribute to a readable, luminous, enlightening overview of Quaker thought and practice. One outstanding feature is how modern practice is related to early Quaker thought (with some passages translated into modern English, a trademark of Ambler's writings), explaining and reinterpreting the core of Quakerism, reminding us that both faith and practice need to evolve constantly in order to ensure ongoing consciousness of the presence of the divine, no matter what happens to obscure it at any moment on this little planet we inhabit. --JMT

"This book is an attempt ... 'to explain the Quaker way, as far as that is possible' (from the back cover). " ( )