This book has had a profound influence on my life, and I don't suggest that you read it unless you are ready to change the way you think about the disciplines, the things we make ourselves to to get closer to God, such as prayer, fasting, worship and reading the Bible. Williard plots the history of the disciplines, and explains psycologically and physiologically why they have such an effect on people. It is a slow read in a few parts, but never impossible. After reading this account of why the disciplines are important, read Richard Foster's Celebration of Disciplines to learn more about the practice of the disciplines. And then do them!