The Tao of Pooh

by Benjamin Hoff
The Tao of Pooh cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Philosophy
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Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 5411
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Publisher: Dutton
  • Published: 1982-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Tao of Pooh offers a unique and accessible introduction to the Chinese philosophy of Taoism. By exploring the simple and joyful life of Winnie-the-Pooh, the author illustrates how Pooh's actions and attitudes align with the principles of Taoism. This charming and insightful book demonstrates that wisdom can be found in the most unexpected places, even in the Hundred Acre Wood. Through the lens of Pooh's adventures, readers learn about the importance of living in harmony with nature, embracing simplicity, and finding contentment in the present moment. The book's engaging and humorous approach makes complex philosophical concepts easy to understand and apply to everyday life.

Reviews
Reddit - r/taoism · 2024-07-31
mixed 3.50

The book is seen as a charming and thought-provoking introduction to Taoism, though some find it overly simplistic.

The Reddit discussion on The Tao of Pooh highlights its charm and accessibility as an introduction to Taoism. Many users appreciate how the book uses the beloved characters of Winnie the Pooh to explain complex philosophical ideas in a simple and engaging way. However, some users criticize the book for being too simplistic and lacking depth. They argue that it might not be suitable for those seeking a more rigorous exploration of Taoist principles. Overall, the consensus is that the book is a good starting point for beginners but may not satisfy those looking for a more in-depth analysis.

Quick quotes

    It makes the point do what works you for and don’t do what doesn’t work for you.

    The Tao of Pooh is a guidebook to happiness.

    It's a charming, funny, and thought-provoking read.

Lino Matteo's Blog · Lino Matteo · 2022-04-16
positive 4.00

The book is a whimsical and enlightening exploration of Taoism through the lens of Winnie the Pooh, offering both humor and profound insights.

Lino Matteo finds The Tao of Pooh to be a zany and delightful read that effectively uses the characters of Winnie the Pooh to explain Taoist concepts. He appreciates the book's ability to balance humor with deeper philosophical ideas, making it an enjoyable and thought-provoking experience. Matteo notes that while the book can be obfuscating at times, it ultimately provides valuable insights into Taoism. He particularly enjoys how the author pokes fun at Western culture while presenting Eastern philosophy in an accessible manner.

Quick quotes

    It is zany, wacky, obfuscating at times, but also enlightening, delightful.

    The author explains how Pooh and his world are Tao.

    Hoff pokes fun at Western culture while presenting Eastern philosophy in an accessible manner.

Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2015-02-13
mixed 2.50

The book offers a unique perspective on Taoism through the beloved characters of Winnie the Pooh, blending humor and philosophy. It provides a lighthearted yet insightful exploration of Eastern philosophy.

Kara Babcock's review highlights how The Tao of Pooh cleverly uses the characters and stories of Winnie the Pooh to explain Taoist principles. She appreciates the book's ability to make complex philosophical ideas accessible and enjoyable. The humor and charm of the Pooh stories are used to illustrate deeper concepts about life and simplicity. However, she notes that the book might be too simplistic for those looking for a more rigorous exploration of Taoism. Overall, it's a delightful read that offers a fresh take on an ancient philosophy.

Quick quotes

    The Tao of Pooh is a short book written before I was born that purports to elucidate certain concepts related to Taoism through the characters and story of A.A. Milne's Winnie the Pooh.

    It's a clever and humorous take on Taoism, making it accessible to a wider audience.

    The book is a fun and lighthearted way to introduce oneself to Taoist principles.

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