What first caught my eye about this book was that the author is Anne Lamont's husband. In fact, Lamont writes the Forward for the book. The book promises to be for both rationalists and spiritual minded individuals. It lives up to this promise. It is inclusive and validating of many different believe systems. It is straight forward writing and easy to follow, making it well suited for a wide audience.

Shapes of Truth was a bit of a mixed bag for me, although I view it positively on the whole. When it comes to books on spirituality, I think they are highly subjective and some really grab ahold of the reader and some aren't able to do so in the same way. I can admire Allen's efforts to describe his spiritual path, but I also acknowledge that path is definitely not for me. I don't necessarily see things in colors and body-forms, although I applaud those who possess that ability. I do enjoy meditation, but I enjoy a simpler form than that described here.

That said, I don't think the reader has to use the advice here strictly for spiritual purposes, as it can be viewed as general life wisdom. For instance, Allen describes the ability to feel inner power for those who feel insecurities, typically in two different forms depending on the individual.

I give the author credit for the bits of memoir scattered throughout the book in small bits. I found those parts to be the most memorable, such as his cross-country hitchhiking during his college years. In a certain sense, it seemed silly he regretted not joining the circus, but once he unfolds the full story, he really pulls the reader in with vivid details.

The author admits the introduction (formally, the foreword) by his wife Anne Lamott is the best part of the book. I can confirm this, as there is no false modesty in this statement. Lamott's writing is always so memorable, and that is certainly no exception here.

I picked up Shapes of Truth because I’d seen a coaching method recently that had very similar roots of visualizing our feelings inside us. Plus, I’ve read and enjoyed Anne Lamott and wanted to read her foreword.

It’s unique to think of feelings being associated with colors and textures… easier to comprehend with children’s art than adult development. So many of us have been taught to resist feelings…. Get over it. Keep on keepin’ on. Apologizing for crying in front of others, etc.

This book explains a great tool to have in any personal growth toolbox. The method is a challenge to understand on paper though. I’ve seen it in action so I understand the deep power it can have. It takes some time and patience but the results appeared to be transforming for the client.

While God is in the book title, note that it’s more a universalist God. There are mentions of many religions throughout the book.

It may interest some readers that foundation of the book was attributed to Allen’s work with Hameed Ali, who writes under the pen name A. H. Almaas.

I enjoyed the first half of the book but found myself slowing down toward the end, wondering if it was almost done yet every time I picked it up. (There was a warning in the beginning to maybe just pick a handful that resonate to start with, but I was curious to read the whole book.)

This could be a great book to have in print as a quick reference when working with clients/patients.

Thank you to NetGalley and Pearl Publications for this ACR.