This exhaustive discussion of the topic of shamanism includes both the author's personal story and the history of shamanism. I found the author's own story more compelling than his academic treatment of the subject. Nevertheless, this book is well researched and is a "must read" for anyone interested in shamanism or the history of religions.

Singh's exploration is both thought-provoking and balanced, addressing questions like the nature of trance, the role of shamans, and the psychological appeal of their transformative practices. His vivid accounts of healing ceremonies and initiations immerse readers in the rich cultural contexts of shamanism, while his critique of biomedicine and modern psychedelic movements challenges us to reconsider how we approach healing and spirituality.

This book is a must-read for those curious about the intersection of anthropology, spirituality, and human psychology. Singh not only illuminates the enduring allure of shamanic traditions but also reveals their potential to teach us about resilience, transformation, and the mysteries of the human experience.