I can't remember what piqued my interest in Thomas Merton, but I'm glad it was so piqued. This volume contains bits and pieces from across the spectrum of his writing, and is, so far as I know, a good introduction. It has certainly made me want to read more of his work. What is most valuable here is the complete image of Merton from his feckless youth to a measured and intense maturity.

Standouts for me: "Fire Watch, July 4, 1952," "Christian Culture Needs Oriental Wisdom," "Prometheus: A Meditation," "Two Asian Letters." ( )

This edition brings us Thomas Merton is all his aspects: spiritual writer, poet, peacemaker, man among men, servant of God -- a one-volume synopsis of his quest for truth, drawn not only from his major works but from his lesser-known writings as well. ( )