When his sister tricks him into taking her guru on a trip to their childhood home, Otto Ringling, a confirmed skeptic, is not amused. Six days on the road with an enigmatic holy man who answers every question with a riddle is not what he’d planned. But in an effort to westernize his passenger–and amuse himself–he decides to show the monk some “American fun” along the way. From a chocolate … factory in Hershey to a bowling alley in South Bend, from a Cubs game at Wrigley field to his family farm near Bismarck, Otto is given the remarkable opportunity to see his world–and more important, his life–through someone else’s eyes. Gradually, skepticism yields to amazement as he realizes that his companion might just be the real thing.
In Roland Merullo’s masterful hands, Otto tells his story with all the wonder, bemusement, and wry humor of a man who unwittingly finds what he’s missing in the most unexpected place.
A sequel, entitled Lunch with Buddha, is now available. In a starred review, Kirkus magazine called this novel which continues the journey of Otto and Rinpoche, “a beautifully written and compelling story about a man’s search for meaning that earnestly and accessibly tackles some well-trodden but universal questions” and a “quiet meditation on life, death, darkness and spirituality, sprinkled with humor, tenderness and stunning landscapes.”
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I started reading Roland Merullo’s works with this book. It is a treasure. I fell in love with the characters, especially Rinpoche, and that started my travels with this author not only through his Buddha books but his many other works as well. Merullo’s character development is gradual, steady and intriguing . He has a way with words and explores complicated moral life issues in a very accessible style. At the end, you will hanker for lunch, dinner and any more time you can get with Rinpoche and his cast of characters; and want to read anything by Merullo!
On occasion, I life to read a book totally different from my usual genres. It was entertaining, but it did leave you with some “food for thought”.
A true curmudgeon, Otto, sets off on a road trip from New Jersey to North Dakota in the company of a Rinpoche in full guru robe. What happens along the way was surely meant to be regardless of how Otto tries to avoid the lessons and he opportunities. Needless to say, by the time he gets back home he is a changed man. I suspect most readers will experience a change, as well.
Obviously I loved this book and can’t wait to read the second in the series.
Original story line with fun loving characters
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book!
Fun series of books.
If, like me, you enjoy books that might challenge your ideas and make you think, this book is for you. Despite the serious subject matter, I found it to be a quick, entertaining read and will definitely read more from this author.
This is a good writer with a delightful cast of characters and such a fun story. I read the trilogy and have suggested it to many friends.
If one is thinking of Buddhism, this is one to read to get a taste of it in a humorous way.
Did not read nor do I want to.
I really enjoyed this light and thoughtful book.
This was a truly enjoyable book filled with both humor and wisdom. I had my book club read it and we ended up reading the trilogy.
I loved this book
Filled with wonderful spiritual truths
Characters absolutely great
This story of transformation had me laughing and hoping it would not end.
I listened to this as an audiobook and was hooked! Had to devour all three in the series (no pun intended). I love books that elevate the soul while telling a great tale.
Fun story with a spiritual twist. I’ve ready the whole series and enjoyed immensely.
Although it’s a novel, it has lots of information re: Buddhism.
Not a terrible book but I did not myself find it to be of great interest.
Interesting read –
Light and fun but with wisdom. Love the premise and the characters. Will read over and over.