Publisher's Picks

Scholarly written and densely packed with a wealth of historical information, "The Fall" is an anthropological study of the rise of the human ego, leading to the sense of "separation" that has spawned wars, and the gross mistreatment of each other and the environment. In his book, Taylor shows how the human ego, simultaneously evolving and devolving throughout history, is mirrored in societal attitudes and structures, leading to his somewhat surprising thesis that the modern ego appears to be coming full circle, beginning a return to its pre-fall state as evidenced in an increasing sense of compassion. This book is highly recommended for anyone with an interest in the evolution of consciousness.

Just in time for the five year countdown, The Mystery of 2012 is an anthology of essays written by renowned experts, such as NY Times best-selling author, Gregg Braden and noted Mayan Calendar researcher, Jose Arguelles, on the prophecies surrounding the year 2012. Examining the mystery from every angle, the essays focus on the scientific, ecological, sociological and spiritual indicators and prophecies that something world-changing is scheduled to happen on the winter solstice of 2012 (December 21). With implications ranging from the ecstatic to the horrific as regards the future of the planet and mankind, The Mystery of 2012 provides comprehensive coverage of the portended date.

Have you ever sensed that your life has a deeper, more meaningful purpose - but don't know what it is? In The Instruction, psychic Ainslie MacLeon offers a systematic approach to uncovering the life your soul has planned for you. With the help of high-level spirit guides, this step-by-step manual for realizing personal fulfillment presents the debut work from this unique voice in contemporary spirituality.

This is a truly beautiful set of 44 golden-edged cards, featuring the Fractal Art of Cheryl Lee Harnish, and includes a guidebook of suggested layouts and interpretations for each of the cards. I recently invited some friends over to test the deck with me and, after spending most of the time gushing over the beauty of each and every card, we found their "divinitory powers" to be amazingly accurate and insightful. If oracles interest you and you like the artwork on this month's cover, you will LOVE these cards.

Free Spirits is the incredible story of the Brotherhood of the Spirit/Renaissance Community commune of western Massachusetts, one of the largest, most controversial intentional communities/communes/ec-villages of the 1960s and 70s, and its flamboyant founder, Michael Metelica Rapunzel.Many of the members stayed a decade or more, committing their youth, sweat, and worldly possessions to creating an example of brotherhood and harmony, that, they felt, would serve as a model for the rest of the world. Unfortunately, as it grew, the commune became a microcosm of the world at large, with most of the same problems, structures, and limitations of both American society and Soviet socialism. Featuring the music of "Spirit in Flesh", Free Spirits won a prize for "Best Original Score" at the Oxford International Film Festival. Interesting, well-crafted and nostalgic, Free Spirits will make an excellent holiday gift for your hippy friends.