Helen Tworkov

Helen Tworkov is the founding editor of Tricycle: The Buddhist Review and the author of 'Zen in America: Five Teachers and the Search for an American Buddhism'. She has been a student of Buddhism for several decades and has studied with various teachers in both the Zen and Tibetan traditions.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. In Love With The World

    A Monk's Journey Through the Bardos of Living and Dying

    The book narrates the transformative journey of a Tibetan Buddhist monk who leaves his monastery to embark on a solitary pilgrimage, seeking to deepen his understanding of life and death. Through his encounters with various people and experiences, he confronts his own vulnerabilities and fears, ultimately discovering profound insights into the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all beings. The narrative blends personal anecdotes with spiritual teachings, offering readers a compelling exploration of mindfulness, compassion, and the quest for enlightenment.

    The 10214th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Lotus Girl

    A Memoir of a Buddhist Life

    "Lotus Girl" is a memoir by Helen Tworkov, chronicling her journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. Growing up in the vibrant art scene of New York, Tworkov felt a disconnect with Western cultural norms. Her perspective shifted dramatically after encountering the powerful image of a Vietnamese monk's self-immolation, prompting her to seek deeper understanding of different states of mind. Embarking on a transformative journey at twenty-two, Tworkov traveled through Japan, Cambodia, India, and Tibetan refugee camps in Nepal. Her path led her to engage with influential figures such as the Dalai Lama and Pema Chödrön, as well as renowned artists and thinkers. Set against the backdrop of the transformative sixties, the memoir delves into Tworkov's quest for a sense of belonging and her exploration of the intersection between Buddhist teachings and American values. Through her experiences, Tworkov offers insights into personal growth and the potential for self-transformation.

    The 17008th Greatest Book of All Time
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