100,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฟ

Thanks for supporting our 100% NZ-owned independent bookstore โค๏ธ Open Sat & Sun until 5pm

Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching

A Book about the Way and the Power of the Way
4.29 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 178,772 ratings, 9,236 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching by Ursula K. Le Guin is a modern translation of the ancient Chinese classic that explores the fundamental principles of Taoism. The book offers profound insights on harmony, humility, and balance, guiding readers towards a deeper understanding of the Tao, or "the Way."
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$3500
OVERNIGHT NZ-WIDE DELIVERY

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you appreciate poetic and profound philosophies that provide timeless wisdom on living harmoniously with the world. Le Guin's translation brings clarity and beauty, making ancient teachings accessible and relevant to modern readers.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

"[A] modern-day rendition of the ancient Taoist classic."--

A rich, poetic, and socially relevant version of the great spiritual and philosophical classic of Taoism from one of America's leading literary figures.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Embark on a profound journey through the mysteries of Taoism with Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching translated and commented upon by the remarkable Ursula K. Le Guin. This literary treasure invites readers into the timeless teachings of Lao Tzu, an ancient Chinese philosopher whose wisdom holds powerful relevance for the contemporary world. Through a series of poetic, thought-provoking verses, the Tao Te Ching offers guidance on living in harmony with the universe, embracing simplicity, and cultivating inner tranquility.

Ursula K. Le Guin, celebrated for her acclaimed science fiction and fantasy works, channels her deep appreciation and understanding of Taoist philosophy into a shimmering rendition of this classic text. Many may be familiar with her contributions to speculative fiction, but in this meticulous translation, her lifelong engagement with Taoist principles shines distinctly.

Within Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Le Guin presents Lao Tzuโ€™s ancient teachings with exceptional clarity and accessibility. Her translation navigates away from dense jargon, maintaining the lyrical beauty and profound simplicity of the original work. Whether you are a long-time follower of Taoist philosophy or a curious newcomer, Le Guinโ€™s heartfelt commentary is a valuable guide, making the text's universal truths easily understandable and immensely relatable.

Le Guinโ€™s version stands out not only for its faithfulness to the poetic essence of the original writings but also for the personal insights she weaves throughout. Her commentary offers readers a doorway to the practical applications of Taoist wisdom in our everyday lives, emphasizing its timeless and transformative power amidst contemporary challenges.

Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching by Ursula K. Le Guin is more than just a translation; it is a bridge connecting ancient teachings to the present day. This accessible, poetic rendition captures the message of the Tao Te Chingโ€”an invitation to embrace the flow of life, cultivate humility, and find peace amidst chaosโ€”making it an indispensable read for those seeking wisdom and serenity in an ever-changing world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Ursula K. Le Guin's translation of Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching is praised for its fresh and lively approach, making it accessible to modern readers while retaining the humour, insight, and beauty of the original text. Reviewers commend it as a second original due to its stylistic excellence and clarity. Le Guinโ€™s work is celebrated for capturing the essence of the Tao in a way that feels both familiar and newly discovered.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781611807240

Publisher: Shambhala Publications Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 14 May 2019

Country: United States

Imprint: Shambhala Publications Inc

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 208

About the Author

Ursula K. Le Guin (1929-2018) is an internationally celebrated author of more than fifty books of fiction, poetry, and essays, including The Left Hand of Darkness, Always Coming Home, and the Earthsea Cycle series. Her numerous literary awards include six Nebula Awards, seven Hugo Awards, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America Grand Master Award, and the National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters.

Also by Ursula K. Le Guin

View all
  • The Books of Earthsea: The Complete Illustrated Edition
    Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Earthsea, meticulously crafted by Ursula K. Le Guin. The Books of Earthsea: The Complete Illustrated Edition brings together all of the cherished tales from Le Guin's celebrated fantasy series, providing readers with an all-encompassing journey through this mystical archipelago. For the first time ever, this definitive collection features the entirety of Le Guin's...
    Hardback
    $6500
    Elsewhere:
    $7999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Left Hand of Darkness
    'A rich and complex story of friendship and love' GUARDIAN 'Love doesn't just sit there, like a stone, it has to be made, like bread; remade all the time, made new.' Two people, until recently strangers, find themselves on a long, tortuous and dangerous journey across the ice. One is an outcast, forced to leave his beloved homeland; the other...
    Paperback
    $2600
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Left Hand of Darkness
    'A rich and complex story of friendship and love' GUARDIAN 'Love doesn't just sit there, like a stone, it has to be made, like bread; remade all the time, made new.' Two people, until recently strangers, find themselves on a long, tortuous and dangerous journey across the ice. One is an outcast, forced to leave his beloved homeland; the other...
    Paperback
    $2300
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Dispossessed
    The Principle of Simultaneity is a scientific breakthrough that will revolutionise interstellar civilisation by making possible instantaneous communication. It is the life work of Shevek, a brilliant physicist from the arid anarchist world of Anarres. However, Shevek's work is being stifled by jealous colleagues, so he travels to Anarres's sister-planet Urras, hoping to find more liberty and tolerance there. But...
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Other Wind
    The wizard Alder comes from Roke to the island of Gont in search of the Archmage, Lord Sparrowhawk, once known as Ged. The man who was once the most powerful wizard in the Islands now lives with his wife Tenar and their adopted daughter Tehanu. Alder needs help: his beloved wife died and in his dreams she calls him to...
    Paperback
    $1999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Word for World is Forest
    When the inhabitants of a peaceful world are conquered by the bloodthirsty yumens, their existence is irrevocably altered. Forced into servitude, the Athsheans find themselves at the mercy of their brutal masters. Desperation causes the Athsheans, led by Selver, to retaliate against their captors, abandoning their strictures against violence. But in defending their lives, they have endangered the very foundations...
    Paperback
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Tales from Earthsea
    These five superlative, evocative and enchanting stories range from a few hundred years before A Wizard of Earthsea to just before The Other Wind, and feature some of Le Guin's most popular characters, including the Wizard Ged himself. The stories are rounded off with an essay about Earthsea's history and people.No Earthsea fan will want to be without this magical...
    Paperback
    $1999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Word for World is Forest
    A world of peaceful aliens conquered by bloodthirsty yumens, their existence is irrevocably altered. Forced into servitude, the Athsheans find themselves at the mercy of their brutal masters. Desperation causes the Athsheans to retaliate against their captors, abandoning their strictures against violence. In defending their lives, they endanger the very foundations of their society. Every blow against the invaders is...
    Paperback
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Dispossessed
    One of the very best must-read novels of all time - with a new introduction by Roddy Doyle 'A well told tale signifying a good deal; one to be read again and again' THE TIMES 'The book I wish I had written ... It's so far away from my own imagination, I'd love to sit at my desk one day...
    Paperback
    $2600
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Five Ways to Forgiveness
    Set in the same universe as The Left Hand of Darkness and The Dispossessed, these five linked stories follow far-future human colonies living in the distant solar system. Here is the complete suite of five linked stories from Ursula K. Le Guin's acclaimed Hainish series, which tells the history of the Ekumen, the galactic confederation of human colonies founded by...
    Paperback
    $2600
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • A Wizard of Earthsea
    A stunning graphic novel edition of the classic fantasy adventure, with a foreword by Theo Downes-Le Guin. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula Le Guin was first published in the UK in 1971 and has been considered a classic of children's fantasy ever since. It follows the story of Ged, a poor smithโ€™s son, who discovers a magical talent and...
    Paperback
    $2999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • A Wizard of Earthsea
    A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin is a captivating journey through the mystical archipelago of Earthsea. As the first book in the revered Earthsea series, it introduces readers to Ged, a young boy destined to become the most powerful sorcerer of his age. Known in his youth as Sparrowhawk, Ged's insatiable thirst for knowledge and his reckless...
    Hardback
    $3600
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday

More from Religion & Spirituality

View all
  • New Release
    2027 Witch's Diary - Southern Hemisphere
    From the bestselling authors of Spellcasting, which has now sold over 250,000 copies worldwide, comes the essential witchy journal to plan your days, harness magick, and connect with higher powers. Features include: 8" x 6" (8" x 12" open) Beautiful glossy gold gatefold cover Compact size, perfect to carry in your bag and keep on you throughout the day 12-month...
    Paperback
    $1999
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    2027 Lunar and Seasonal Diary - Southern Hemisphere
    Renowned witch Stacey Demarco helps you get the most out of the moon phases and seasons. This planner includes lunar timings and explanations of the moon phases and their impact on us along with practical magical suggestions to work with the energies of each season.Features include:ย โ€ข 8"" x 6"" planner (8"" x 12"" open)ย โ€ข Spiral binding allows the pages to...
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • NKJV, Gift and Award Bible, Leather-Look, White, Red Letter, Comfort Print
    Commemorate a special accomplishment or event with a gift to be treasured for years to come. The popular and reliable New King James Version with the enhanced readability of Thomas Nelsonโ€™s custom NKJV font is now the perfect gift. The NKJV, Gift and Award Bible is a great way to recognise someone for a job well done. This special-occasion Bible...
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $2000
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • KJV Holy Bible: Economy Paperback: Beautiful. Trustworthy. Timeless, Comfort Print: King James Version
    The full text of the KJV with extra helps is an excellent Bible for a new Christian or someone interested in learning more about God. The King James Version of the Bible is the bestselling and most-read English translation of all time. This low-cost Bible with extra helps is perfect for churches and ministries looking to distribute Godโ€™s Word through...
    Paperback
    $900
    Elsewhere:
    $1000
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Braiding Sweetgrass
    Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a graceful and illuminating study of the wisdom of the natural world, bringing together the knowledge of modern science with the teachings of Indigenous cultures. At its heart, the book explores the interconnectedness between humans and nature, offering profound insights on how this relationship can foster a deeper ecological consciousness. As a botanist...
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • NIV, Holy Bible, Economy Edition, Paperback, Comfort Print
    Hope for your everyday life. The New International Version of the Bible is todayโ€™s most popular modern-English translation. This low-cost Bible, featuring extra helps that are ideal for evangelism and an easy-to-read Comfort Printยฎ typeface, is perfect for churches and ministries looking to distribute Godโ€™s Word in bulk through their outreach events. Features include: The full text of the accurate,...
    Paperback
    $1000
    Backorder
    Ships late August
  • The Practice of Not Thinking
    Bestselling author and Zen priest Ryunosuke Koike teaches us how to reconnect with our five senses and move towards enlightenment. What would happen if we learnt to look instead of see, listen instead of hear, and feel instead of touch? With remarkable clarity, Ryunosuke Koike shares the ways we can incorporate Zen practice into our daily life, resulting in a...
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The King Is Coming
    Bestselling author John Bevere challenges Christians to take a fresh and honest look at one of the most often misunderstood and avoided truths of the Christian faithโ€”the second coming of Jesus. Through personal testimony, biblical accuracy, and practical guidance, readers will be inspired to live a life of spiritual vigilance as they prepare for the glorious return of our King....
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3500
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • NIV, Gift and Award Bible, Leather-Look, Pink, Red Letter, Comfort Print
    Bibles make great gifts! This leather-look NIV Gift and Award Bible is economically priced so you can share the life-changing Word of God with more people. Perfect for special events or acts of kindness, this gift Bible is arranged in two columns with the words of Jesus in red, along with a presentation page for gift-giving, maps, and other Bible...
    Paperback
    $2200
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Mere Christianity
    Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis is a profound literary work that offers a compelling and articulate exploration of the Christian faith. This timeless classic emerged from a series of radio talks given by Lewis during the dark days of World War II, where he aimed to demystify the essence of Christianity and present a logical case for its core...
    Paperback
    $1900
    Elsewhere:
    $2200
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Screwtape Letters
    A milestone in the history of popular theology, The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis is an iconic classic on spiritual warfare and the power of the devil. This profound and striking narrative unfolds as a series of captivating letters penned by Screwtape, a senior devil in the Infernal Civil Service, to his eager but inexperienced nephew, Wormwood. Wormwood is...
    Paperback
    $1900
    Elsewhere:
    $2200
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith
    From the bestselling author of Hillbilly Elegy โ€“ an intimate account of why Vice President JD Vance strayed from the Christianity of his youth and what led him back to faith. Communion is a spiritual exploration of what it means to be a Christian in all the seasons ofย life JD Vance has experienced โ€“ as a child, a young man,...
    Paperback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $3699
    In Stock
    Ships Monday

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.