This is a worthy attempt at psychological fiction in which the Buddhist outlook as a form of therapy, as well as a philosophy of life, is described and explored. The novel is well planned and structured. Readers seeking to learn how Buddhism translates itself into concrete day-to-day life experience will be rewarded. Some of the characterization seemed a bit thin at times but became more well rounded at the end. ( )

I adored this book for its commitment to being real. Scenes and dialogue from the book keep coming to mind in my day to day, trying to be awake life. A wonderful book and one I'm sure I'll come back to, unlike most fiction. ( )

Jake Fades: A Novel of Impermanence
Jake Fades: A Novel of Impermanence
David Guy

I'll just put my biases up front: it was easy for me to like this book because it's about Boston, Buddhism, beer, and sex. If the author had thrown in a soccer game or a couple of hockey references and I might have called it The Best Book Ever Written.

Fuller disclosure: the author, David Guy, has been my friend and teacher. From him I learned about two practices, writing and meditation. For the last month I have been recommitting myself to my meditation practice, and I am amazed at the subtle but profound difference it makes in my life. David was my primary instructor when I sat regularly at the Chapel Hill Zen Center. This book he has written can give you a taste of the kind of teacher he is: clear, real, and insightful. He sees and is shaped by traditional Zen teachings and practices, but reveals them in modern American life. He also shapes a great story and writes terrific dialog, all with humor and no sentimentality. I did not want the book to end. David's teaching has deepened my life, and Jake Fades shows how. ( )