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Wisdom from the Batcave: How to Live a Super, Heroic Life
Wisdom from the Batcave analyzes the life philosophy that emerges from Batman comic books. In 18 lighthearted chapters (such as "How to Triumph over Adversity", "the Value of Inspiring Others," "A Better Definition of Victory"), the Batman's example is used to teach profound truths. Focusing on relationships with self, others, and the larger community, Wisdom from the Batcave uses the experience of the Batman and his allies to illustrate how to live a better life.
Wisdom from the Batcave will appeal to young and old alike. It is both lighthearted and profound. Adult readers of comic books or younger readers who like the Batman will enjoy this book.
118 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2006
15 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 2, 2019
Rabbi Friedman does an amazing job in showing the reader the lessons we learn from Batman. It is very thought provoking without being too preachy. Additionally, Rabbi Friedman shows that many of the lessons learned in Batman comics have their ties in Judaism. It was a fascinating read.
In truth, I couldn't help but smile as I read this novel. It is filled with such enthusiasm and hope that would warm the heart of any cynical being. I highly recommend this book.
In truth, I couldn't help but smile as I read this novel. It is filled with such enthusiasm and hope that would warm the heart of any cynical being. I highly recommend this book.
December 26, 2016
Amazing Read
This is the first review I've ever written for a book, but feel it's important to convey the overwhelming praise I have. First of all, I was blown away to learn this was written by a Rabbi. The juxtaposition was, in my head, almost humorous. However, all of the points connected within all make perfect sense in a logically explained manner. Being a Catholic school attendee from kindergarten through graduating high school, my familiarity with the teachings of the Old Testament are limited but not non-existent. It's easy to see the fundamentals of Hebrew faith present, but in no way did it ever feel pushed. Simply put, this may be one of my favorite reads ever, albeit short and easy. Anyone that has ever had the chance to be a pupil of Rabbi Friedman must feel lucky...I know I do for stumbling across this awesome book. My lifelong obsession with the Batman feels a lot more justified now.
This is the first review I've ever written for a book, but feel it's important to convey the overwhelming praise I have. First of all, I was blown away to learn this was written by a Rabbi. The juxtaposition was, in my head, almost humorous. However, all of the points connected within all make perfect sense in a logically explained manner. Being a Catholic school attendee from kindergarten through graduating high school, my familiarity with the teachings of the Old Testament are limited but not non-existent. It's easy to see the fundamentals of Hebrew faith present, but in no way did it ever feel pushed. Simply put, this may be one of my favorite reads ever, albeit short and easy. Anyone that has ever had the chance to be a pupil of Rabbi Friedman must feel lucky...I know I do for stumbling across this awesome book. My lifelong obsession with the Batman feels a lot more justified now.
August 24, 2019
So, I consider this book to be more generally self-help-y than spiritual. The author did repeatedly refernce the Torah and Jewish teachings, but I felt that gave appropriate historical context to Batman as most comic book authors atthe time of his creation were Jewish. But the things covered here are a great overview of the moral, ethical, and psychological lessons that Batman has emodied.
You can definitely tell this was written in the early 2000s, though. If the author was taking Dr. Thompkin's actions during War Games into account, he might not have such glowing things to write about her.
You can definitely tell this was written in the early 2000s, though. If the author was taking Dr. Thompkin's actions during War Games into account, he might not have such glowing things to write about her.
April 13, 2023
As an analysis of the philosophies and ideologies that influenced one of the most well-known superheroes in the world, Friedman brings an interesting point of view that most would not recognize, and only after understanding the intention of the dark knight's various authors would a better understanding of being known.
March 26, 2013
A fairly short book, but a good read. It's basically Chicken Soup for the Soul with every story being about Batman. Every chapter is about one facet of how we get along as human beings and to be honest, none of it is anything more people don't just inherently know. What helps is the reminder that our lives, how we live them and how we treat others are all up to us.
Fair warning, it is written by a Rabbi, and while not about his religion (The book is about the goddamned Batman!) he does bring it up from time to time. So you may want to steer away if you're offended by other people's religions.
Also, the kindle version I was reading had the bad habit of hacking up where the pictures were supposed to be within the text, sometimes creating a whole page just for the image and other times including the image at the end of the segment.
Still, a great book to read for a little healthy uplifting.
Fair warning, it is written by a Rabbi, and while not about his religion (The book is about the goddamned Batman!) he does bring it up from time to time. So you may want to steer away if you're offended by other people's religions.
Also, the kindle version I was reading had the bad habit of hacking up where the pictures were supposed to be within the text, sometimes creating a whole page just for the image and other times including the image at the end of the segment.
Still, a great book to read for a little healthy uplifting.
November 14, 2015
Interesting read, especially for Batman fans and for those interested in theology and religious studies. Well written and quick read with lots of interesting points. Given to me by a friend who correctly assumed that I would enjoy it. Absolutely! Friedman is a rabbi, but plenty of application for Christian spirituality as well. Some of this will probably make its way into sermons at some point.
June 26, 2012
Rabbi, consultant to the FBI, and life long comic book fan Cary Friedman writes a concise but engaging piece that reflects life lessons we can learn from the example of Batman as well as support from other spiritual leaders.
It was fun, insightful and inspiring and short. Short and perfect!
It was fun, insightful and inspiring and short. Short and perfect!
Read
December 17, 2007Hear an interview with author Cary Friedman on The Book of Life podcast's Septembe 2007 episode at www.bookoflifepodcast.com!
November 30, 2016
Get this
Its a great read and is very easy to follow and implement in real life. Glad I bought it! Very inspiring piece of work
Its a great read and is very easy to follow and implement in real life. Glad I bought it! Very inspiring piece of work
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews