I was gifted this book a couple weeks ago and I am forever grateful. The simple cover of the book alone grasped my attention and put a big smile on my face. It emanates simplicity and calmness. Since receiving the book it has become a constant companion, visited and revisited throughout the day and each night before sleep. Amongst friends over the past couple weeks I've found myself sharing one of the author's great insights, reading word by word from one of his 108 short stories in the book. Mike Travisano's minimalist style of writing allows the power of each word he puts on paper to resound and awaken the wisdom within each of us. His unique style is also captivating to me as a reader in an ironic way. This book isn't a page turner, but quite the opposite. Each short passage of the book is only one or two pages long yet each is so thought provoking once read, I found myself not wanting to read anything more at the moment, but rather to reflect on what I just read and soak it all up before moving on. The illustrations and art work throughs the book done by Jess Gibson are a treat to behold as well. It is with pleasure that I give this book a 5 star rating and I highly recommend you add it to your wish list, or better yet, don't wait, you're worth it, get it now.

Eschewing either an academic or simplistic Buddhism 101 approach, Osho Travisano invites the reader to come along on an exploration of the concepts of the faith/philosophy. If anything, his methodology is a middle way, neither esoteric nor facile. Seldom employing the jargon that’s the stock in trade of the specialist, Travisano’s own life experiences elucidate such things as form/emptiness, oneness, mindfulness, samsara and suffering – oh, so much suffering. Chapters (108 of them!) with such titles as ‘Finding the Person Under the Suffering’ and ‘The Arrows of Pain and Suffering’ reveal how Travisano’s Buddhism helped him survive personal trials and adversity. In “Nothing Is Never Not a Beginning,’ he writes ‘… I find myself so very thankful for every painful inadequacy, every crushing embarrassment, every disappointment, every failure, and every loss that led to exactly now.’ These are not the words of a masochist but of a highly intelligent, sensitive and compassionate teacher whose practice has helped him surmount mighty difficulties and whose personal reflections hold great help for all of us still clinging and hurting.

I had the pleasure of reading Refuge in Small Things, and it has been a deeply enriching experience. From the very first page, the author invites readers to explore the core principles of Buddhism in a way that is both accessible and profound. The blend of ancient wisdom and practical advice for modern life is what makes this book stand out.One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to distill complex concepts like mindfulness, compassion, and impermanence into clear, everyday language. Whether you're new to Buddhism or have been practicing for years, there's something here for everyone.The author's tone is gentle and encouraging, never preachy. He skillfully balances theory with personal stories and relatable examples, making the book a source of both learning and inspiration. Every page leaves you with something to reflect on and a sense of calm that lingers long after you've finished reading.