Rating: 
Summary: Good Introduction to Taoism
Review:
The book is organized into three parts: 1. History of Taoism, 2. Definition of Taoist Concepts, and 3. Taoism in Practice.
The second section is easily the best, most objective and least analytic. The authors define Tao, Te, wu-wei, ying and yang, p'u and chi. Taoism *is* "simple"; it isn't easy to practice, but far too many authors tend to analyze and over-analyze while defining, which is the precise antithesis of Tao. The second section of this book takes a solid Taoist approach by simply defining the terms; you use them your Way.
The third section, Taoist Practice, represents the authors' mindset. It is how they practice Taoism, and though I don't disagree with what they've written, I'd say take what you need and leave the rest (we can do things not mentioned or not do things they do mention). The first section, Taoist History, reads as well-researched but speaks only of cosmic/metaphysical elements, which renders it incomplete and slanted.
The book is written as though all concepts presented are in equal measure the essence of Taoism, and they aren't. I bought this for a friend who was interested in the basics of Taoism, and in particular meditation. I picked it up to see what I'd be giving him and ended up reading it; it's very short and fast and I liked it a lot. I thought highly of it. Then when I gave it to him I found that I wanted to explain which elements could be appropriate or not for him, or what he doesn't need to take as "fact" of Taoism as it's presented here.
I've considered Taoism indespensible in my life for over a decade and while this book is quite a good introduction, it has a somewhat one-sided view that's presented as universal, which makes this a good primer course but requires supplemental information. Small example in part three: the authors offer meditation suggestions and teach martial art basics (they are martial art instructors and therapists). In my opinion, these aren't all inherent/necessary to Taoist practice, though here the practices are discussed in equal measure to the rest of the book (no differentiation between opinions and definitions are presented). It's unfortunate because the material is good -- if only the authors would have written that the third chapter, for example, is about the ways *they* practice (martial art isn't a Taoist mandate, yet understanding the definitions in chapter two is). As a first book about Taoism it might be difficult to differentiate between their practice and the ways other people do.
Overall: Good book. The 2nd section section is worth the price of admission, easily, for its simple definitions of typically over-described concepts. But parts one and three should be taken as the less objective of the three sections.
Rating: 
Summary: Every line in 'simple taoism' will click.
Review: 'Simple Taoism' is an essential book for the person seeking peace in an ever growing world of technology and distractions. Stuck in a stuffy shopping centre one morning waiting for the car to be fixed, a sudden desire to escape to the library for a bit of peace and quiet brought me to the book 'Simple Taoism'. I read almost half the book in 2 hours and was so taken by it, I spent a considerable some of money photocopying the rest of the book to read later. 'Simple Taoism' explains itself in such a pure and simple way, you can not fail to understand its message. The book fills you with inspiration and helps you realise that you can experience true life-long happiness if you just stop trying so hard. Everyone is lead to believe that they will reach a point in their lives when they will have every thing they need to be happy, but how long will it take? .If you understand Taoism you will realise that you can be happy now. Through this book you will see that Taoism is just pure wisdom. Taoism is simply derived from observing the ways of nature
Rating:
Summary: A Clear and Poetic Guide to Taoism
Review: I really liked this book. It is written in commonsense language, without the esoteric terminology that some Taoism books use. Part I gives an overview that educates about all the many varied aspects of Taoism over time. Part II explains the key concepts such as Tao, yin and yang, and that useful Taoist idea of wu-wei--to accomplish more by doing less. Part III shows you how to apply all of these to your life. This book remains true to the spirit of Taoism and helps you to integrate the wonderful qualities of Taoism into your life. In these difficult times a book like this offers a meditative approach to coping with calm and optimism. I highly recommend this book!
Rating: 
Summary: Less a practical guide than a history of Taosim.
Review: If you already know the history of Taoism and are looking for a more practical, modern guide, this probably isn't the right book. This book takes a much more traditional view of Taoism, teaching the reader about t'ai ch'i and other activities. Presenting Taoism more as a faith than a philosophy, it's just not what I was looking for in a more practical guide to living with balance in one's life.
Rating:
Summary: Simple Taoism provides a hand book for life.
Review: Simple Taoism provides a handbook for life. Deceptively brief, it explains in plain language the basics of Taoism and builds on these with simple exercises to help you put the theory into practice. It gently persuades you to look at your life again. Stand back and let things take their course - let your true nature emerge. A book that was meant to find its way onto my shelf. Feet on the ground stuff, but providing spiritual insight. An inspiration!
Rating:
Summary: Spirituality and Health
Review: Taoism is a complex vast collection of customs, rituals, and beliefs that have never been codified into doctrine. This ancient Chinese path emphasizes attunement to the natural rhythms of life, the wisdom of intuition, and the value of inaction or wu-wei. C. Alexander and Annellen Simpkins, authors of "Zen Around the World," discuss the importance of chi (life force or energy), yin and yang, the five elements, and simplicity in Taoism.
The movement from Lao-Tzu's writing about the Tao to the contemporary search for methods of enhancing and prolonging life is a zigzag course rather than one of logical progression. "Wisdom lies in not contending," write the Simpkins. "Sensitive to the inner nature of self and others, Lao-Tzu''s Way leads through mystery by returning to the core of life."
Those who are interested in living in balance will find plenty of helpful resources in Taoism including meditation, Eastern medicine, the martial arts of tai chi and aikido, feng shui, and techniques for working with dreams.
Rating:
Summary: Simple...
Review: There's not much meat to this "guide"; I was looking for a lot more based on the history of the authors. There are a lot of books available in the genre of "the idiot's guide to..." and unfortunately this book falls into that category and is not a real source for much.With the many books available that delve into the history of Taoism, notably those by Grigg and Deng Ming Dao, one quickly realizes this book needs to be a lot stronger (and bigger) to be of any real use. Although this is a great "loaner" for friends who are intrigued by your habits and lifestyle, if you practice any Taoist-related activities now you won't get anything from this book. Borrow it and check it out before buying!
Rating:
Summary: Every line in 'simple taoism' will click.
Review: This book attempts to do three things and fails all three miserably. Tries to teach Qigong with only three exercizes. (In my opinion; the authors should have taught Ba Duan Jin (Eight peices of brocade).) This would stimulate all 12 of the primary meridians. and improve your physical and psychological health. Tries to convey the essence of the Taoist faith. (very limited in scope) Teaches breathing exercizes, (especially a breathing pattern where you draw in the stomach on the inhale (this is called reverse taoist breathing, and builds Qi in your body very quickly)). This can be dangerous if you do not know how to release the surcharge of Qi, and no; the authors do not warn of this problem, nor teach how to release the energy safely. Please see my Taoist listmania list for recommended titles and allow this volume to collect dust; because it is dangerous to your physical and psychological health. I encourage questions and comments; Two Bears. Wah doh Ogedoda (We give thanks Great Spirit)
Rating:
Summary: Communicates the spirit of Taoism to you!
Review: This book reveals the secrets hidden in the mysterious Tao, Yin and Yang, Te, and the Way of non action. It gives straightforward instructions for chi kung, tai chi, and healing with acupressure. A simple yet comprehensive book that shows you how to use Taoism to improve your life.
Rating:
Summary: A Clear and Poetic Guide to Taoism
Review: This book was a great read. An introduction to history and practices of Taoism. Covering Tai Chi Chuan and simple meditation, this book is a terrific primer for anyone interested in learning more about Taoism. Highly recommended.
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