Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind: The Life and Letters of an Irish Zen Saint Paperback – Illustrated, April 17, 2007

A remarkable story about a remarkable young woman. Truly inspiring.

I heard about this book years ago during an interview on NPR. This is not a spoiler alert because the front of the book tells you the ending. This is the actual diary of a young woman who moved to Japan to become a Buddhist monk. Her writing is beautiful. She is in Thailand with her brother en route home for first time in years and is killed when her bus crashes. The only reason for the book is because of her death. Her mother gathered her letters and diary and published the book so now every reader takes this incredible journey to enlightenment. I have given this book as a gift several times over the years. Most recently I gave it to my 15 year old granddaughter who also loved it. It's just that kind of book.

This not so much a book as an edited journal and letters. I was spellbound by Maura's inner experiences and encouraged by her honesty about her struggles with her practice. I have found only a few books that relay the actual experience of zen as a practice. Most are instructional and though that is useful, I need to know that others find the path difficult and struggle within themselves also. I don't want to know about perfect practice - I want to know about the flaws and how to overcome them. This book is about that and a beautiful spirit.

What an amazing young woman to be so clear....Especially enjoyed the diary of her travels at the end. Consistently humble- never lets on that it's enlightenment that she is achieving. Simple honest...terrific

This is one of my favorite books. I purchased this Kindle version even though I have a hard cover. The spiritual journey of Maura O'Halloran is so warm, poignant and open-hearted, it's a delight to read over and over. Her honesty and humbleness shines through her words. This is not a long, ponderous tome that you have to wade through... every passage speaks clearly of a true, 20th century saint.

I read this book 20 years ago and never forgot it. Now with new material it's even more profound. I love her humanity, how she has the same worries and self doubts about her meditative practice that I have experienced. It helps me to keep showing up to meditate. Maura is inspirational, yet very human and real. I applaud her family for sharing these writings with all of us.

This is a captivating book in the form of a diary Maura kept as a very young woman going to Japan and being accepted to study in a Zen monastery. The work is tedious and challenging, as are her reactions to the petty characteristics of those she lives with. She has an all-consuming desire to become enlightened. I was amazed and awed by her perseverance. A very moving account by such a young person.

enjoyable read. Interesting look at Zen Buddhism from a non Japanese, female perspective.