Reviews

Harvey, an Anglo-Indian novelist and poet, expands on the spiritual transformation that he described in part in Journey in Ladakh. Beginning in 1978 when he first met Meera, the Indian woman who would be his Master, Harvey (who at the time was teaching literature in England and the U.S.), struggled for-- and against-- enlightenment for nine years. With other disciples he followed Meera, who he came to see as Ma, the Divine Mother. In India and then in Germany, under her guidance he confronted his confused sexuality, his attachment to intellect and reason, his pride and his fears-- and then he surrendered to the power of Divine Love to which she as avatar led him. Harvey directly and convincingly describes his visions and spiritual experiences, which are in the tradition of Eastern mystics such as Aurobindo and Western mystics such as Juliana of Norwich and John of the Cross. His account suggests that in the course of his efforts he indeed surpassed the limitations of Selfhood that impose the greatest obstacles on people's lives. His precise, passionately told story will touch skeptics as well as seekers. (Apr.)

Harvey's astonishing journey will make readers envious. Born in India and abandoned by his mother at six, Harvey was sent to boarding schools in India and England. His experience as an Anglo-Indian living in Great Britain reinforced his need for spiritual growth. On one of his frequent trips back to India he met a mysterious 17-year-old girl, Mother Meera (``Ma''). Harvey chronicles his growing dissatisfaction with Western philosophy after that event and describes his alternating states of bliss, terror, confusion, and understanding as he slowly moves toward enlightenment. Eventually he sees Ma's true identity: that of an avatar, or goddess incarnate, whose purpose is to encourage human and planetary healing. Readers will connect to his experience and realize the immense amount of sacrifice necessary for enlightenment. Exquisitely written, deeply moving, and highly recommended.-- Kevin M. Roddy, Oakland P.L., Cal.