A truly wonderful book. Taylor is a true poet, in word and in deed. She has a wonderful heart for worshipping the divine in every facet of life, honoring and responding to God in everything. Of course, her liberal theology showed itself here and there, but never did I feel as though I couldn't learn from her – even in her most liberal sentiments. She was real and raw, earthy and beautifully worshipful. And, she helped me see more of the Really Real. ( )

Is it luck, good fortune, or blessing that connects us with wise mentors in print? Whatever it is, I'm grateful that I found Barbara Brown Taylor. Her voice and her insight, fresh and original while at the same time steady and matter-of-fact, encouraged me to head into my day with a bit more hope and a lot more faith.

I needed her reminders and the frequent first time ever notion that the everyday brims with the sacred, and the ordinary is never ordinary when given real attention. Beautiful writing. ( )

What a beautiful book! I had no choice but to read it slowly, so as to better appreciate Barbara Brown Taylor's perfectly chosen words, and bet I will be revisiting the many passages I highlighted. An Altar in the World is one of several books I've read that I guess I'd classify (for lack of a better term) as Spiritual Memoir. The best of these seem to come to the same conclusions, regardless of their authors' affiliations (Taylor is an Episcopal priest who now teaches religious studies). That is: be present to the world around you, love one another, wake up! Taylor's perspective transcends her particular religious background and beliefs (many of which I don't share) to get to the heart of what she terms the "Really Real." Very well-written, with many useful insights, An Altar in the World is a keeper. ( )

Taylor reveals clear paths to a constant prayer; constant communion; constant attentiveness. Helpful guide for living a life of awareness of the Divine. ( )

Taylor helps us find meaningful ways to discover the sacred in the small things we do and see everyday and incorporate these practices into our daily lives. Thru her guidance we can learn to live with purpose, pay attention, slow down, and practice reverence where ever we are.