God Is No Laughing Matter: Observations and Objections on the Spiritual Path
Ever since she wroteThe  Artist's WayJulia Cameron has championed the belief that creativity is  a spiritual act and even a birthright. If readers ever feel that their  creativity is blocked she has always suggested that they look inward for  inspiration and guidance. She explains, "All of the tools that I teach are the  tools of inner listening.... When people tune in that way, they not only hear  their own personality; they also hear a higher octave of guidance."In a sense, Cameron has always nudged her readers to forge a more conscious  relationship with God. So it isn't any surprise that she would eventually tackle  this topic head-on inGod Is No Laughing Matter. This inspirational book  is formatted as a series of essays, and each one ends with a suggested  "Experiment" or "Exercise." This essay structure gives the book lightness and  approachability, which is fitting, considering that her main premise is that we  need to lighten up so that we can better approach God. When challenging the  notion that "God is no laughing matter," she writes, "I'm not so sure about  that. Look at octopuses, for example. And baboons with those hilarious bright  red asses."Sound superficial? Don't make me laugh. This is actually one of Cameron's most  articulate, spirited, and ripened books yet. Although she underscores some of  the spiritual advice that's already being said (slow down, simplify, be still),  readers will find plenty of fresh and original essays in a book that really  matters.--Gail Hudson