This is the first book that links the long-noted philosophical similarities of Taoism and Zen. The author traces the evolution of Ch'an (Zen) in China and later in Japan where the way was a term used interchangeably to describe the essence of both Taoism and Zen. The author points out that Taoist literature also formed a part of both Ch'an and Zen teaching and that the etymology of the Japanese word roshi evolved directly from a Chinese expression for Lao Tzu. These and other points are argued both historically and philosophically in a manner that will engage the reader. The Tao of Zen is a fascinating book that will be read and discussed by everyone interested in both Taoism and Zen. --