REVIEW OF READING THOMAS MERTON - A GUIDE TO HIS LIFE AND WORK by Dr. John Laughlin. 218 pages. Reviewed by Dan K. Phillips (http://edge.net/~dphillip/Merton.html) Dr. John Laughlin has presented us with an EXCELLENT guide to Thomas Merton. He has amplified on Merton´s past, particularly his earlier years, by adding previously unpublished details of his families life. Also included is an extensive Chronology of Merton´s Life, pictures surrounding Gethsemani, bibliographies, dissertations on Merton, essays by Merton along with reviews of them, journals, letters, and Merton websites. It is a terrific book of information for a Mertonite. An indispensible comprehensive one volume work listing everything one needs about Merton in one volume. A MUST HAVE REFERENCE WORK! Amid the many books by and about Thomas Merton finally comes one to aid readers navigate the rich and often overwhelming written legacy of one of history’s most important and influential spiritual writers. Part I of Reading Thomas Merton: A Guide to His Life and Work canvasses the life and thought of Thomas Merton including the early loss of his mother, his father’s bohemian life style, his European education, his drinking and carousing at Cambridge that ended with a paternity suit, his forced return to the States and studies at Columbia University where his life of promise blossomed. This section addresses his decision to become a Roman Catholic and Cistercian monk, his brilliant career as a contemplative writer, monastic reformer and hermit. His gift of writing, which was evident before he entered the monastery, thrived amid the rigid structure of Trappist life, the kindness of his first abbot, and the grace of God. Highlighted is his long disguised love affair that ended shortly before he left for the fateful trip to Asia where he died of accidental electrocution. Part II is a complete annotated bibliography of most of his writings, the best books written about him and a section on those who most influenced his life. There are listing of key Merton web sites, the best place to purchase his books, a guide to visiting a monastery, a good selection of tapes by and about Merton and where to purchase them. Peppered with quotes from Merton´s work the book gives the reader a taste of his wonderful and compelling prose. This book is the perfect starting place for anyone who has wanted to read Merton but did know where to begin. For the more informed readers it holds new reading adventures and rewards. Reading Thomas Merton: A Guide to His Life and Work makes an excellent gift and addition to your reference library. It will prove useful for years to come.