Beyond the Peaks: A Review of Debra Liu's "Into the Mountains: Exploring China's Sacred Daoist Peaks"

By Tony Huang

Into the Mountains: Exploring China's Sacred Daoist Peaks, by Debra Liu (Earnshaw Books, July 2025)

In her evocative memoir, Into the Mountains: Exploring China’s Sacred Daoist Peaks, Debra Liu invites readers on a compelling journey through the stunning landscapes of China, blending the natural beauty of sacred mountains with the rich mosaic of Taoist philosophy and tradition. Drawing from a blend of personal narrative, historical insights, and spiritual exploration, Liu uncovers how these formidable peaks have become central characters in the narrative of Taoism, shaping its practices and philosophies for millennia.

From the outset, Liu immerses us in the atmospheric world of early Taoism, where hermits and practitioners sought refuge in the isolation of towering mountains. These giants of nature provided more than just a backdrop for meditation; they served as vital conduits between the earthly and the divine. Liu eloquently illustrates how the ancient sages found profound connections with the Tao amidst the serenity of these peaks, with her vivid prose painting a picture of stillness and introspection that resonates deeply in the reader’s mind.

The memoir’s strength lies in its exploration of significant figures in Taoist history, such as Zhang Daoling and Wang Chongyang, whose legacies are firmly intertwined with specific mountains. Liu artfully reveals how each mountain represents a unique story and a crucial link to the spiritual lineage of Taoism. Her candid reflections on these traditions not only honor the past but also highlight their relevance in today’s world, suggesting that the principles of Taoism can guide modern seekers in their quest for meaning and connection.

As the narrative unfolds, Liu navigates the intricate relationship between Taoist practice and the physical landscape, exposing how sacred geography has shaped the spiritual currents of Chinese culture. Her exploration of the Five Great Peaks not only deepens our understanding of their mythological significance but also sheds light on their historical importance, as they have been sites of imperial rites and ascetic practices alike. Readers are drawn into the essence of each peak, experiencing the arduous journeys and spiritual quests that have taken place amid their imposing heights.

Throughout Into the Mountains, Liu’s lyrical style captures the essence of the Daoist worldview, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nature, spirit, and human experience. Her intimate encounters with the mountains evoke an appreciation for their timeless presence, inviting readers to ponder the deeper meanings embedded within the natural world. Particularly striking is her emphasis on the resilience of these traditions in the face of historical upheavals, an element that underscores the enduring power of belief and the vital role of sacred spaces in communal identity.

In this memoir, Liu challenges us to reflect on our own connections to the landscapes we inhabit. She encourages readers to consider the stories and histories that lie beneath the surface of their surroundings, thus inviting a profound sense of curiosity and respect for the spaces that shape our lives. Ultimately, Into the Mountains is not merely a travelogue; it is a heartfelt exploration of how ancient wisdom continues to inform contemporary existence. It reminds us that the mountains are not just geographical formations but integral players in the ongoing story of human spirituality.

Debra Liu’s Into the Mountains is a masterful and insightful memoir that beautifully weaves together the themes of nature, spirituality, and history. It serves as a reminder that the sacred landscapes we traverse are imbued with stories that span generations, beckoning us to explore not only the peaks of China but also the depths of our own spiritual journeys. This is a book that will resonate with anyone seeking to understand the profound connections between culture, nature, and the quest for meaning in the modern world.

Tony Huang

Tony Huang, PhD, is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Hong Kong Review. He is also the founder of Metacircle Fellowship, Metacircle (Hong Kong) Culture and Education Co., Ltd. and Metaeducation. He works as a guest-editor for SmokeLong Quarterly. His poems and translations have appeared in Mad Swirl, The Hong Kong Review, The Best Small Fictions Anthology Selections 2020, Tianjin Daily, Binhai Times, SmokeLong Quarterly, Nankai Journal, Large Ocean Poetry Quarterly, Yangcheng Evening News and other places.

Copy editor: Nancy He

Intern copy editor: Scarlet Li