I’m afraid I didn’t get very far in Agnes Wong’s book. It is by no means a primer. Some chapters require a background in neuropsychology. Others require the reader to have at least some familiarity with Buddhist concepts. While the author does make clear that medical professionals are her target audience, she suggests the book may be read by others interested in compassion. I disagree. In fact, I think just about anyone reading this, except for a Buddhist practitioner who happens to also be a neuroscientist, would have tremendous difficulty with it. This is NOT an accessible text.

I did expect that I’d have to do mental work, but not to this degree. There are insufficient examples and analogies to illuminate concepts. Technical terms are used without being explained. I believe that even the doctors and nurses I know would get no further than I did. The book is a missed opportunity. Perhaps the author was just too ambitious. Whatever the case, I regret to say I cannot recommend it.