An interesting collection of interviews with some of today's public figures.

Some quotes...

While those profiled may not be representative of ordinary Americans, this sensitive spiritual portrait of popular culture evokes, in thought-provoking fashion, the vibrant and highly individualized nature of contemporary faith.

A few speak out of a traditional faith, like presidential speechwriter Michael Gerson, basketball star Hakeem Olajuwon (Muslim), or actor John Mahony of "Frasier" fame (Catholic). Others, such as rock star Melissa Etheridge and life coach Iyanla Vanzant, have shaped a personal spirituality that draws from multiple faith traditions.

Hip-Hop entrepreneur Russell Simmons is an "aspiring yogi." Choreographer Mark Morris says he's an atheist, but surrounds himself with religious icons of all kinds. Several writers calling themselves agnostics or "nothing in particular" offer keen insights on the meaning of life.

"Bliss is our nature," says the longtime meditator. "We should be like little puppy dogs. So happy.... And that includes unbounded, infinite intelligence, creativity, consciousness." - David Lynch

Chicago Cub manager Dusty Baker comes out from behind his dark glasses to talk about his deep faith as a Baptist, and how it pervades his work with the team. "You can be Christian and be hard-nosed," he says. "Love with discipline. That's what spirituality and Christianity is all about."

Falsani's book grew out of a series of newspaper columns, so several interviewees have a Chicago tie, including author Studs Terkel, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, and Sen. Barack Obama.

Rocker Billy Corgan, former lead singer of Smashing Pumpkins, shares with intense honesty steps on his spiritual path out of a troubled childhood, and what his musical role has been for the kids who have followed him. "The Goth kids ... are searching for something, he says, and it's not him. But he can try to point them in the right direction, toward the things he was searching for as a Goth teenager and as a depressed, self-absorbed young adult," Falsani writes.

Very interesting find