Make This Your Lucky Day

December 24, 2007
This introduction to Feng Shui expert Whitehurst's own brand of the ancient Chinese art, "Lucky Day Shui," largely makes good on its promise of fun and ease with simple methods and implementations that won't cost you much money (no need to invest in teak furniture or a burbling fountain), though certain elaborate and seemingly nonsensical rituals may prove less than helpful. Whitehurst starts with the Bagua map, a fundamental Feng Shui tool that divides any given environment into nine different sectors, each representing "a specific life situation" (wealth, knowledge/self-cultivation, marriage/partnership, etc.). Each chapter provides simple "cures" to apply in each map sector, some more involved and esoteric than others: for instance, eliminating clutter from the wealth area results in clearer thinking about finances, while a cure for debt prescribes a weekly ritual involving transferring one's burden to unripened limes, dipping them in a mix of salt and red spice and then tossing them over one's left shoulder into running water. Though it will prove frustrating for anyone looking to parse practical advice from superstition, those with an open mind will get a fun, rigorous introduction to Whitehurst's variant on Black Hat Feng Shui, and at the very least gain some sound organizational advice and a better appreciation for houseplants.

November 15, 2007
These two very different books are related in their authors' belief in luck and in the ability of individuals to obtain it. Astrologer Dolnick and attorney Davidson's mini reference examines the concept of luck throughout history as observed by a variety of religious sects and practiced in many cultures. The authors help readers develop a personal-luck profile and detail how to apply astrology, numerology, and even herbology toward increasing the odds in one's favor. A practical section on gambling advises readers how to play cards, dice, or the roulette wheel with caution.Holistic practitioner Whitehurst concentrates solely on feng shui and its nine energies, including career, wealth, marriage, and health. After explaining the basic concepts of the discipline, she offers easy techniques for employing these energies. While using one's chi is instrumental, other easy tactics include placing three rosemary plants in the kitchen for healthy financial independence and taping a picture of a mountain onto the back of one's desk chair for career success. "Luck"will have more general appeal, while "Make This Your Lucky Day"will draw New Age readers. Both are excellent choices for public libraries.

Copyright 2007 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.