Elizabeth U. Harding

Provides good information about the Kali temple, but author simplifies things repeatedly, even if she sets out to explain the complexities of Kali worship. If you know anything at all about the worship of Kali and Tantric traditons from before, you get an uneasy feeling that she's glossing over some details that aren't even that complicated to explain to the lay reader. This is also noticeable because she can discuss the same subjects, such as certain rites, several times throughout the book show more and yet gives a different explanation for them each time. This makes you feel as if the writer doesn't trust your ability to comprehend the text and conversely, it doesn't help you trust the author either. It also struggles between a devotional book and an academic work--it can't seem to decide if it's either.

Nevertheless, the descriptions of the Dakshineswar temple and its rituals are interesting and provide a good window into the daily life of the worshippers and the priests, so the book's worth it for these descriptions alone. show less

A very comprehensive study of the legends and traditions surrounding the Indian goddess Kali and the practices of her followers.

Dispels all the misconceptions about Kali. Ms. Harding did a great job.