Learning tea is not just about acquiring knowledge of tea itself; it also involves studying aesthetics, history, and spiritual cultivation. A true tea practitioner should be an aesthete, a philosopher, and a connoisseur of life. They must have traveled widely, read extensively, and be kind to themselves and others.

Books recommended by Lillian Li

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  • First tea book in the West

    Written by a Japanese tea artist, this book explores the shared tea philosophy between China and Japan, which emphasizes the appreciation of the beauty of tea and life.

  • Deeper understanding of teaa

    you'll start by tapping into the wisdom and insights of the Chinese tea masters, and then learn more about all aspects of tea—from the practical to the spiritual—and how they can implement the accompanying ancient traditions into the modern life.

  • Tea history study

    This book is extensively researched and provides a detailed account of the history of tea from different countries.

  • 2nd most translated book next to Bible

    Chinese wisdom in simple words, which can be interpreted in different ways to various versions. If you want to understand Chinese philosophy and wisdom, this book is the key.

  • Fully in the present in everything

    written by a spiritual master, this book brings you an inspiring spiritual journey to find your true and deepest self and reach the ultimate in personal growth and spirituality. Be in the moment with tea.

  • Oprah Winfrey's favorite book

    Mr. Tolle expands on these powerful ideas to show how transcending our ego-based state of consciousness is not only essential to personal happiness, but also the key to ending conflict and suffering throughout the world.

  • Connection between tea and Zen

    In Japan and China, tea is deeply connected to meditation and Zen. The practice of making and drinking tea is regarded as a powerful path to inner peace.

  • A moving novel about a girl in Pu'er tea region

    A captivating novel about tradition, tea farming, and the deep bonds between mothers and daughters. Beyond the story, it also offers valuable insights into Pu’er tea. I had the honor of giving a Pu’er tea lecture for the book club at Lewis & Clark Library in Montana, US, as they were reading this book.

Steep in the Tao of Tea

"The Way has always been about harmony, through the streaming moments of life to the stream of Tao itself: and the Way of Tea is no different. Through tea, we learn to listen to the unfolding moment, adapting and flowing in harmony with it, for we quickly realize that the best cups are prepared in such an unaffected way. We learn that even the flavor of tea is as much dependent upon the skill of the one brewing as the quality of the leaf. And beyond skill, we find insight in the very pronounced differences the mind has on the tea liquor."

- Aaron Fisher, author of The Way of Tea, pg. 19