Deepak Chopra, Debbie Ford, and Marianne —New York Times bestselling authors and internationally acclaimed teachers—have joined together to share their knowledge on one of the most crucial obstacles to happiness we face—the shadow. These three luminaries, each with a signature approach, bring to light the parts of ourselves we deny but that still direct our life. For it is only when we embrace our shadow that we discover the gifts of our authentic nature.

The shadow exists within all of us. It is a part of us and yet we spend most of our life running from it. But far from being scary, our dark side holds the promise of a better, more fulfilling life. Our shadow makes itself known every day. It is the reason we get furious over a friend showing up ten minutes late, yell at our parents or kids when they have done nothing wrong, and sabotage our own success at the worst possible time. Until we are able to embrace our dualistic nature, we will continue to hurt ourselves and those closest to us and fall short of our potential.

Combining the wisdom of three experts, The Shadow Effect is a practical and profound guide to discovering the gifts of our shadow. These three authors powerfully pierce the veil of our unclaimed self, releasing us from the past and propelling us on a journey to wholeness. No longer living a half life, we are capable of achieving our dreams and reclaiming the happiness that is our birthright.

This coproduction of the star spiritual-writing team of Chopra, Marianne Williamson, and Debbie Ford is a component of a larger project, the documentary film of the same name, which features these authors plus several other famous faces, including Verdine White of the R&B group Earth, Wind, and Fire. The shadow is the name they give to the fears, inhibitions, and unspoken impulses that impede us and lead to self-destructive behaviors. Their essays here deal with the history of the shadow, methods for dealing with it, and the relations between the shadow and the soul. VERDICT By virtue of its authors alone, this title will command a wide readership among spiritual seekers; its concerns, too, are real and timely.