Originally Posted by: john of MTThis is a good spot for my annual plug ;) of [U]Zen Guitar[/U] by Philip Toshio Sudo. This is not a how-to-play book...there is no technique, no chord charts, none of that good stuff we need and find on GT. This small book is a why-we-play book that addresses how to approach guitar, how to build and control your emotional involvement with playing and practice, how to manage the frustration most of us experience at one time or another. How to set your mindset. :)

Don't be concerned about the title. It is not a boring writing about religion but it does borrow attitudes and approaches and applies them to/for the guitar student. It is a book read over and over by those that know it.

On Amazon, it can be had new for $7, used in 'very good' condition for $4. Take time to read the user reviews...72% give it five stars. And know at least one current GT instructor has encouraged GT members to read it.

Now that I have it down off the book shelf, it's time to read it again. :D

You know, I'm about due to give this book a good read also. I've long forgotten who turned me onto this book...it may very well have been you...but I'm so glad somebody did. I know others that have benefited from this book.

I generally read it once a year as a refresher. There are some powerful concepts in there about how to approach playing and practicing. It also helps me keep the expectations I have of myself realistic and to appreciate the process rather than only focusing on the end point.