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The Parent's Tao Te Ching: Ancient Advice for Modern Parents Paperback – March 31, 1999

by William Martin (Author)
4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars 675 ratings
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Classic Taoist wisdom applied to the world of parenting, guiding mothers and fathers to meaningful conversations and relationships with their children.

William C. Martin has freshly reinterpreted the Tao Te Ching to speak directly and clearly to the most difficult of modern tasks -- parenting. With its combination of free verse and judicious advice, The Parent's Tao Te Ching addresses the great themes that permeate the Tao and that support loving parent- child relationships: responding without judgment, emulating natural processes, and balancing between doing and being.

"A masterpiece. William Martin captures the essence of what it means to raise a child. Urgently needed, this precious book lifts parenting to new heights."-- Judy Ford, author of Wonderful Ways to Love a Child and Wonderful Ways to Be a Family
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  1. Print length
    160 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Balance
  4. Publication date
    March 31, 1999
  5. Dimensions
    4.5 x 0.5 x 8.25 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    1569246629
  7. ISBN-13
    978-1569246627
  8. See all details
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Editorial Reviews

Review

A masterpiece. William Martin captures the essence of what it means to raise a child. Urgently needed, this precious book lifts parenting to new heights -- Judy Ford, author of Wonderful Ways to Love a Child and Wonderful Ways to Be a Family

I loved William Martin's The Parent's Tao Te Ching. Advocating patience, compassion, simplicity, and parental awareness, these ancient lessons allow mothers and fathers to quietly reflect on their own selfhood, then to see and respond to their children's authentic selves. Every parent should keep this book on their bedside table to read and re-read as they negotiate the tumultuous reality of family life -- Virginia Beane Rutter, Jungian analyst and author of Celebrating Girls: Nurturin and Empowering Our Daughters

If ever there was an undertaking that could use every bit of ancient wisdom available it is parenting, and William Martin's The Parent's Tao Te Ching consistently and elegantly brings us back to the beautiful depths of this most honored role -- Will Glennon, author of Fathering and 200 Ways to Raise a Girl's Self-esteem

William Martin shows how the universal lessons of Taoism can be applied to parenthood. In the process, he not only sheds light on the most sacred of tasks we face, but he also works to bring peace and understanding to a coming generation -- Deng Ming-Dao, author of The Chronicles of Tao, 365 Tao and Everyday Tao

About the Author

William C. Martin, a Taoist writer and painter, lives in Northern California with his spouse, Nancy - who is a traditional bookbinder/book repairer. 

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Balance; 32650th edition (March 31, 1999)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 160 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1569246629
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1569246627
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.5 x 0.5 x 8.25 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars 675 ratings

About the author

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William Martin

William Martin

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I have taken a winding road that has led me straight to the present moment. I have, over the years, worn the labels of, "Christian, Buddhist, and Taoist." I have followed careers called, "Scientist, Minister, Therapist, Writer, and Painter."

I have two children by my first marriage. Lara and John are delightful people and bring me much joy. I have three grandchildren, Jillian, Andrew, and Emma - all of whom likewise delight me. I have been married to Nancy for 34 years now and she is the mate of my heart and I cherish my life with her. Nancy and I now live in the Sonoran desert of southern Arizona where we, like Ed Abbey, cherish one of humanity's last true wilderness areas.

I write these words at the age of 79 years and I sense that I am in the most creative, generative, and in many ways, powerful time of my life. I write, publish, dance, walk in the desert, and celebrate my life.

Customer reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
675 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book inspiring and helpful for parents. They describe it as easy to read, well-written, and concise. Readers appreciate the thoughtful and calming advice. The advice is considered practical and applicable today. Customers consider it a great gift for new parents.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

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WisdomReadabilityThought provokingCalming contentAdvice qualityGift value
75 customers mention "Wisdom"75 positive0 negative

Customers find the book inspiring and reflective. They say it provides a wonderful perspective on parenting and helps parents who may be questioning how to guide their children. The book is perfect for parents who believe in simplicity and compassionate parenting. Readers describe it as a gentle, supportive read that serves as a reminder on those days when food is being thrown and toys are strewn across.

"One of my favorite parenting books. Maybe my favorite, since I always return to it and take away something new each time...." Read more

"This is a fantastic book for new parents regardless of whether you have any spiritual leanings or not - it's just good parenting advice for anyone...." Read more

"...It's simple short and to the point. It is jam packed with very important concepts every parent should understand." Read more

"I love this book so much!! As a mom of 3, it's given me a different perspective of parenting instead of clashing with my kids...." Read more

21 customers mention "Readability"21 positive0 negative

Customers find the book easy to read and well-written. They appreciate the concise translations and poetic writing style. The book is described as a quick, digestible read that provides helpful insights.

"This is a great read. It's simple short and to the point. It is jam packed with very important concepts every parent should understand." Read more

"...But this book with it's easily digestible readings has calmed me down when I get frazzled about doing too much or not doing enough as a parent...." Read more

"...The text is simple, beautiful, and concise, combining affirmative free verse with a positive call to action that is sure to resonate with all belief..." Read more

"...The translations are concise and also poetic. A book that I get something out of every time I glance at a page." Read more

18 customers mention "Thought provoking"18 positive0 negative

Customers find the book thoughtful and respectful of their role as parents. They appreciate the beautiful message, concise writing, and poetic thoughts to consider for raising a child. The book provides an opportunity for soul-searching and amazing words to live by.

"...Here it was delivered in a beautiful and compassionate light for those of us with children. Such a good version for me, very very applicable." Read more

"...It was both comforting and liberating, but most of all it was thought-provoking...." Read more

"I have read loads of parenting advice and this little book captures the soul of what we need to be focusing on, which is ourselves and our..." Read more

"...much and love my son for who he is, the actions he takes and appreciate his feelings. I'm grateful for being introduced to this book." Read more

15 customers mention "Calming content"15 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's advice calming and comforting. They say it helps them not be too hard on themselves. The book is described as gentle and a good meditation guide for mindful parents and grandparents who need reminders.

"...But this book with it's easily digestible readings has calmed me down when I get frazzled about doing too much or not doing enough as a parent...." Read more

"...This book provided tremendous comfort and I plan to re-read it (probably multiple times)." Read more

"A nice twist on the Tao Te Ching. It is very comforting as a parent to read these affirming words...." Read more

"...It was both comforting and liberating, but most of all it was thought-provoking...." Read more

13 customers mention "Advice quality"13 positive0 negative

Customers find the advice helpful and applicable. They find it easy to read and understand, with ancient wisdom that is still relevant today. The book provides essential topics for parents to explore.

"...Such a good version for me, very very applicable." Read more

"...Short daily messages to hold as a meditation and guidance...." Read more

"...I just love the way that there is always a core, essential, nurturing topic to explore but, in short exerts....keeping in mind that sometimes..." Read more

"...I find this book easy to read and very practical. I opened it tonight to ease my mind about our son who has many challenges...." Read more

5 customers mention "Gift value"5 positive0 negative

Customers like the book's gift value. They say it's a great gift for newly expecting friends and a beautiful gift for any serious new parent.

"Lovely reading, beautiful gift and if you take into account we are all children on this planet, these are truths for all ages...." Read more

"...Nice gift for so special reason." Read more

"...This would make a great gift for parents (or yourself) with a child of any age. Enjoy!" Read more

"Great Gift for new parents!..." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Mamachele
    5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful and touches deep
    Reviewed in the United States on September 19, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    One of my favorite parenting books. Maybe my favorite, since I always return to it and take away something new each time. I like to gift it to friends with new babies. I’ve had it since my kids were little and now one is an adult and one is in high school…it really grows with you and speaks to you at every stage. Just beautiful and touches deep. #15 is my favorite…
    Helpful
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  • Jeff Reinmiller
    5.0 out of 5 stars Just what I needed to hear
    Reviewed in the United States on December 20, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This book came into my life not too soon. The message of the Tao is a gentle stream guiding us. Here it was delivered in a beautiful and compassionate light for those of us with children. Such a good version for me, very very applicable.
    Helpful
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  • Anpanman
    5.0 out of 5 stars Whoa. Every child deserves this book.
    Reviewed in the United States on October 14, 2018
    Verified Purchase
    After I had a really bad week with one of my kids, I thought, "What is wrong with my kid?!" I read a few randomly chosen pages, and then SMACK! Right in my kisser! The randomly read pages were like a huge bucket of water putting out my parental fire. It was suddenly so clear to me that the issue was NOT my child, but was instead ME! Suddenly, it was so clear that how I viewed my children and what they represented was extremely flawed. The wisdom of each "chapter" quickly and easily made me realize that my way of thinking about who they were and who I was to them was more than eye opening. I even started texting some of my parent friends late at night because I was so excited to introduce them to this amazingness. I even randomly gave a copy to someone in one of my parent groups a week later. I can be pretty a intense mama, and reading a single short passage puts out my fire in an instant. Life for us all has been so much more calm since this book has been around.

    I recommend this book to every parent because every child deserves it. :)
    58 people found this helpful
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  • AmazonCustomer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Easy to read. Important concepts for parenting
    Reviewed in the United States on August 1, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    This is a great read. It's simple short and to the point. It is jam packed with very important concepts every parent should understand.
    3 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Lori Borger
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great for new parents - and old
    Reviewed in the United States on December 9, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    This is a fantastic book for new parents regardless of whether you have any spiritual leanings or not - it's just good parenting advice for anyone. It's in small snippets - my daughter in law reads a page every morning and makes that day's message her goal for the day. I wish I'd had it as a young parent! It's our new baby shower gift!
    3 people found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • destin and Jenn ford
    4.0 out of 5 stars Not for me
    Reviewed in the United States on August 8, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    Didn’t take a whole lot from it
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Jennifer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Grounds me and my parenting
    Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    This book is incredible. Short daily messages to hold as a meditation and guidance. The philosophy of the Tao delivered as a guide for parents is genius, and I'd take more of this. But this book with it's easily digestible readings has calmed me down when I get frazzled about doing too much or not doing enough as a parent. This immediately helps me reframe my thinking and get back to my intention of being a parent of love and patience. I treasure this book.
    12 people found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Kaylie carter
    5.0 out of 5 stars The best book for parenting!!
    Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I love this book so much!! As a mom of 3, it's given me a different perspective of parenting instead of clashing with my kids. Highly recommend this book for all parents!!
    Helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • David Duguay
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love it! Easy quick read. Beautifully written.
    Reviewed in Canada on October 11, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Highly recommend this book for any busy parent who is looking for quick relaxing read and guidance on how to improve their own and their child’s life and to strength their relationship with their children…Such beautifully written ancient poetic wisdom, as it really promotes love, respect, acceptance and the natural order of things.

    I also enjoy the author’s own modern take and connection of each teachings, making them more relevant in today’s world.

    Although I am perplexed and saddened by how such wonderful ancient and wise Chinese Tao teachings on parenting did not get passed to my own Chinese parent’s’ generation, perhaps it all got lost during wars.

    All was lost but I’m so glad it is found! I’m now even more intrigued by Tao teachings and interested in exploring them further. As far as I know, I am interpreting them as ancient Bible teachings but written for a Chinese audience.
    Report
  • Shrey
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent - Must read
    Reviewed in India on September 28, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Sooo amazing book. Each chapter has soo relevant and though provoking notes.
    Must read for all parents. Print of the book, size and overall design is efficient and easy for reading.
    Simple language and very meaningful notes
    Report
  • TOMAS
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful and insightful! :)
    Reviewed in France on March 28, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    Highly recommendable, lovely little book full of heartening wisdom. One of my favorite quotes from the book:
    "Make the Ordinary Come Alive
    Do not ask your children
    to strive for extraordinary lives.
    Such striving may seem admirable,
    but it is the way of foolishness.
    Help them instead to find the wonder
    and the marvel of an ordinary life.
    Show them the joy of tasting
    tomatoes, apples and pears.
    Show them how to cry
    when pets and people die.
    Show them the infinite pleasure
    in the touch of a hand.
    And make the ordinary come alive for them.
    The extraordinary will take care of itself."
    Report
  • newbela
    5.0 out of 5 stars adore it
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 14, 2008
    Verified Purchase
    i musta bought half the copies of this book that amazon sell! Always takes me to the heart of myself and my child; always opens on the perfect page. I ask my daughter to chose a page sometimes; which she loves, not least coz if i'm being a critical or intolerant parent the page i read will always sort me out! I buy it for all my friends who have babies. The one's who had previous children cry when they read it. You know, we carry some guilt and shame for those times we 'get it wrong', but this book always helps us heal, consider, get back to the heart of love and carry on. His couples Tao te ching is also a total gem. Makes a beaut wedding gift.
    Report
  • ettonchan
    5.0 out of 5 stars 私の育児バイブル
    Reviewed in Japan on July 21, 2006
    Verified Purchase
    今まで数多くの育児に関する本を読みましたが、私にとって、これに勝るものはありません！

    80の短い詩からなっています。

    短い、抽象的な言葉で、ものすごく大きな、そして根本的なメッセージを伝えてくれます。

    私は老子や道教のことはよく知りませんが、この本をきっかけに、勉強して

    みたいと思いました。

    例えば・・・

    Call difficult things, "difficult",

    and easy things, "easy",

    without avoiding one and seeking the other

    and your children will learn self-confidence.

    こんな調子です。

    裏表紙には、アメリカ女性のオピニオンリーダー、Oprahのコメントが。

    この人は、上沼恵美子と黒柳徹子と阿川佐和子を足して３で割ったような存在の人かな？（私見です）

    「子を持つ全ての友人に、私はこの本を送ります。」とあります。
    Report