Set during the Napoleonic Wars, 'War and Peace' follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families, including the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys. The novel spans from 1805 to 1820 and is known for its realistic detail and psychological analysis. It explores the impact of Napoleon's invasion of Russia on the characters and society, delving into themes of love, family, war, and personal growth. The novel includes historical events such as the Battle of Austerlitz, the Treaties of Tilsit, and the French invasion of Russia, intertwining historical and fictional elements[3][4][5].
One Blade of Grass is an autobiographical journey of Henry Shukman from his troubled childhood to becoming a healing teacher. The book describes how Zen practice transformed his life, making him calmer and kinder. It demystifies Zen training by casting its profound insights in simple, lucid language and takes the reader on a personal journey into the hidden treasures of life revealed through contemplative practice. The memoir is marked by humorous and moving sections, poetic lyricism, and the author's ability to articulate both inner and outer experiences with precision and nuance.
In 'The Soul of Money,' Lynne Twist delves into the psychological, spiritual, and practical aspects of money and its impact on our lives. She argues that our relationship with money is deeply intertwined with our values, sense of purpose, and overall well-being. The book provides guidance on how to reevaluate and transform this relationship to achieve greater fulfillment and alignment with one's true values.
The Dharma Bums follows Ray Smith, a beat writer, and his friend Japhy Ryder, a poet and Zen Buddhist, as they embark on various adventures, including mountain climbing, hitchhiking, and attending poetry readings. The novel is a reflection of Kerouac's own experiences during the San Francisco Renaissance and his fascination with Buddhism and the natural world. It explores themes of spirituality, the search for meaning, and the allure of nature, all set against the backdrop of the Beat Generation's rejection of mainstream American culture.
Poet, Zen teacher, and memoirist Henry Shukman joins Carl for a conversation that explores what it truly means to live freely.
Through stories from Henry’s life—including his youthful encounters with a wandering tramp named “Speedy” and the spiritual revelations that shaped his memoir One Blade of Grass—they dive into profound ideas of freedom, enoughness, and generosity.
Carl and Henry explore how early experiences with money shape our adult perspectives, how to calm financial anxiety by reconnecting with the body, and what Zen can teach us about feeling at home in the world—no matter our net worth. They also wrestle with questions like: What’s the right amount to give? How do we stay generous in uncertain times? And is it possible to pursue financial security without losing touch with our values?
Whether you're facing a surprise tax bill or a crisis of purpose, Henry’s insights offer a grounded path toward clarity and peace.
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Follow Henry Shukman @henryshukman
For more on Henry visit https://henryshukman.com
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Cover Art: Josh Passler - TheFinArtist.com
Music Credits:
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50 Fires: Money and Meaning with Carl Richards 
