This new book of Thomas Merton’s writings deals with his interest in the ‘Shakers’ known otherwise as Believers in Christ’s Second Coming to give them their official name. The book benefits from a long introduction by Paul M. Pearson which tells us something of Merton’s own life and attitudes. It also goes a long way to explaining what attracted a Trappist monk to these people whose fundamental religious beliefs were in many respects different from his own. Merton, however, had great admiration for the Shakers because of their spirituality and work ethic which were in fact somewhat akin to the monastic disciplines within which he himself lived. The book takes several forms - essays and correspondence on the subject, an introduction to a book on Shaker furniture, and the transcript of a conference given by Merton at the abbey of Gethsemani. The book also contains many fine photographs of buildings and furniture which show to advantage the skill, dedication and creativity of the Shakers.