Book Review - The Dancing Monkey And Living The Way Of Zen by Serena Choo

The Dancing Monkey And Living The Way Of Zen by Serena Choo

This book is a sequel to The Monkey and The Way Of Zen. In the first book, we come across a monkey who is searching for answers for the bigger questions of life. He is frustrated and mentally exhausted. In this state, he approaches a Master and lives under his guidance in a temple until the chaos in his mind somewhat silences.

In the sequel, we find the monkey all set to leave the temple 'to find new places to dance, find rhythms he has never felt and see if he can dance not just in the temple but anywhere'. The monkey is no longer the frustrated version of his self that we came across in the first book. He has now changed into a lighter and freer being and calls himself as the Dancing Monkey.

As the Dancing Monkey steps out of the temple for a new life and new adventures, he often comes across situations where he doubts whether he has really learnt anything at the temple. He meets people who, in their unique and interesting way, have something to either teach him or to remind him. Every place brings in a new realisation. Every person he meets teaches him a valuable insight.

The narrative is zen-centric. It is immensely soothing to read. Every chapter ends with a reflection that makes us pause and think about it. I am absolutely fascinated with zen stories and I can't read enough of them. This book, like most zen books, is brilliant yet simple in its essence. The Dancing Monkey represents every human trying to find their own rhythm in a life that seems to change the beats by the minute.

Needless to say, this book comes highly recommended! Set off on a grand, hilarious and poignant adventure with the Dancing Monkey and who knows, probably you will find your way in life. Or perhaps realize that it is okay if you don't, as long as you have your own rhythm.