The book is well written and, even though I have read other books on Peruvian/Inca teachings, I found it most clear and concise. J.E.Williams writing style is very gentle with a beautiful depth and simplicity. There are five main principles to the Andean teachings and, after living among the shamans for 35 years, he is the first person authorized to bring these teachings to the US. Some of the proceeds from the book, as well as the photography, goes back to the indigenous people. As I was reading I could not help thinking that these basic teachings, much like other native peoples worldwide, are so needed now on this planet.
"My experiences with Sebastian and the energies of the Incan sacred sites form a new way of looking at the world. I am the same, but different. I cannot explain it."
The above words summarize the book quite well. This is basically a travelogue, composed of three parts: the author's jungle experience drinking ayahuasca; afterwards he was exhorted by the ayahuascero (as are so many others) to go learn more in the highland Q'ero region (2) W.s chance meeting with a Q'ero 'shaman' named Sebastian, who initiated him into the tradition in the Incan capital Cuzco and (3) His visit to the Q'ero, culminating with the great annual festival at Mt. Colquepunku.
The book is unpretentious and it is easy to see, how the Q'ero would take to the sincerity, earnestness, commitment and respect that Williams appears to show to people he meets. I liked that too. W. describes a number of key (and simple) Incan concepts and rituals such as reciprocity, life force, offerings and 'munay', the deep, abiding, impersonal love that comes straight from the heart. The Q'ero are masters of munay....."munay also signifies tranquility and beauty and suggests a pleasant experience characterized by harmony, symmetry, correctness, within and without. Beauty is the outer wrapping of munay, inside is kindness and love. It is inherent in nature. When munay becomes an integral part of one's character, it expresses itself spontaneously".
i would recommend this book to anyone who plans to visit Peru and perhaps interact with indigenous people; it is packed with non self-conscious advice and personal experience of an enthusiast who comes for a visit several times a year. This book should especially be read by Westerners who insists on visiting the altiplano without adequate preparation and acclimation. Williams had a pretty rotten time there himself, but endured the misfortunes like a champ. So...
Still, in many ways this is a rather superficial book. If you want to know about the Qero, Catherine Allen's The Hold Life Has can't be beat. It really should be THE reference for all even remotely interested in Peru.
