In this exclusive interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Brenda Shoshanna about her recent book, The Unshakeable Road to Love. Drawing from scriptures across cultures and wisdom traditions such as Zen, this work offers students a concrete application of timeless spiritual principles designed to support a deeper foundation for relationships where joy and harmony can thrive. We look forward to learning more about this transformative educational guide and Dr. Shoshanna’s vision for how it can help us create life-enriching relationships.
We asked Dr. Brenda Shoshanna to describe The Unshakeable Road to Love briefly. The Unshakeable Road to Love is based upon the scriptures of all the world including Zen. These eternal principles guide the reader in building a foundation for relationships where happiness and well being are inevitable.
The book explores the difference between real and counterfeit love and shows how all our suffering in relationships is due to being caught in the trap of counterfeit love. A book of practice, it is filled with insights, exercises and interventions so that the teachings can be applied to all your relationships. And upset and conflict can disappear on the spot. PURCHASE ON AMAZON
How do you make sure the information for your nonfiction books is accurate and up to date?
I have been a student, teacher and practitioner of both Zen and Interfaith teachings for many years of my life. The teachings in this book are eternal and applicable at all times.
What does literary success look like to you?
In the case of this book, success looks like even one person finding healing, clarity and comfort from the work.
Do you outline your books beforehand? Why or why not?
Yes, I do. The outline allows me to organize the material in a way that is able to bring the main points forth most clearly.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned while writing?
I’ve learned that writing is mostly rewriting. I always give the work time to simmer and so often discover something new about it, as I do another draft. I’ve also learned to let whatever flows flow, no matter how odd it may be at the time. Down the road that material may hold a key to something important that is hidden at the moment.
What are some publishing tips?
I’ve had many books published, both with traditional publishers and self published. I, personally, enjoy the autonomy of self publishing and the creative possibilities that comes from that. There are many hybrid publishers that can help with this, in case you are new at it.
How do you make non-fiction interesting and engaging while still being informative?
I include stories, (well known stories and personal ones), quotes and important information that the reader can make their own and use in their everyday lives. All of my non fiction books are focused upon taking concepts, philosophies and abstract ideas and showing how to live them day by day. In this way I try to make the material truly relevant for the reader.
What is your favorite part of writing?
Watching a piece of work unfold and reveal aspects to it I wasn’t expecting. It’s an adventure that never gets old.
What do you find enjoyable or difficult about non-fiction?
The most difficult part about non fiction for me is organizing it properly so that the main points of the book shine forth clearly and are not hidden somewhere on a page.
Was this topic suggested or was it something you were already interested in?
I have been writing about and exploring this topic in one way or another most of my life. Due to the times we are living in, I felt it was or urgent necessity to put it together now and offer this book to those who were feeling lonely, upset, conflicted and suffering.
What other types of research did you need to do for this book?
This book required familiarity with world scriptures, including Zen. It also required a knowledge of psychology. As a psychologist as well as long term student, teacher and practitioner of Zen and also Interfaith teachings, I have been engaged with this material for my entire life.
Who will this book appeal to? What age range would you recommend it for?
I believe anyone from about eighteen to eighty can find value in this book. It deals with the heart of relationships, how to step out of conflict and pain with ease. And, as the book deals with difference between real and counterfeit love, the sooner one learns this, the better.
What is your next project?
I am presently working with Jon Mundy, a foremost teacher of The Course in Miracles on a book on The Course In Miracles and Zen. It will be a lively dialogue between us. He and I have offered quite a few workshops on this topic that have been warmly received. I’m also working on a play, The Doctor’s Appointment.
Talk a little bit about yourself. What is your background? What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I am an award winning author of fiction, non fiction and plays. I started writing as a young person and have continued all my life. Professionally, I worked as a psychologist, and I am also a long term Zen practitioner who offers Zen talks to Zen communities. I have also offered a podcast for over four years, Zen Wisdom For Your Everyday Life.
Do you have a favorite book – fiction or non-fiction? How about one of your own?
My very favorite book that I read again and again are the teachings of Huang Po. This book grabbed me as a young person and has never let go.
Do you have an author website or other platform where readers can find more information about you and your books?
Here are some websites I can be found on: The Unshakeable Road to Love: www.totalrelationshipsnow.com, Author website: www.brendashoshannaauthor.com, Podcast: www.zenwisdomtoday.com You Tube channel: Dr Brenda Shoshanna
Is there anything I have neglected to ask that you would like to add?
I just want to thank you for the opportunity to share my life and work.
