“How Joyous Efforts Work is Ettele’s fourth novel about the life of the young Troy. In this book he learns the importance of kindness, compassion and an understanding of the interdependence of all living things. One of my important messages is that each one of us makes a difference, every day, and this is echoed throughout these pages. It is an inspiring read.”

– Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE, Founder - the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace

"With characters that could easily be people we know, Janet Kathleen Ettele’s How Joyous Efforts Work is a wonderful introduction to Buddha's teachings for young and not-so-young adults. Read this book and you’ll grow to love and bond with the characters you meet. Their presence and wisdom will linger in your heart long after you’ve finished the book. Mark the pages and keep the book handy – it’s one you’ll want to read again and again.”

– Robert A.F. Thurman, Padma Shri Professor Emeritus of Indo-Tibetan Buddhology, Buddhist Studies Professr Emeritus, best selling author of Wisdom is Bliss, and other books on living and dying

“Janet Ettele's books are part of a cultural renaissance which brings European and American forms more deeply into dialogue and interaction with Buddhist inner sciences, philosophy, psychology and practice than ever before. The tradition of bringing insights, practices and philosophy from Buddhism into the form of the novel began with writers like J.D. Salinger and Jack Kerouac, and Janet continues that cross-cultural exploration in a way that reflects deep curiosity and kindness. In a culture that's too often addicted to meaningless drama, Janet gives us a grounded story with characters who reflect deeply as they explore the authentic questions of how to live wisely with compassion and joyous efforts.”

– Lorne Ladner, PhD, Author of The Lost Art of Compassion

“How Joyous Efforts Work by Janet Ettele offers step by step advice on how to cultivate enthusiastic joy for developing positive inner states like equanimity, gratitude, patience, concentration, and wisdom. Janet imparts these insights within the context of a heart-warming story of a young man, Troy, seeking guidance and meaningful relationships. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone who wishes to live a meaningful life.”

– Wilson Hurley, Therapist, Teacher, Author: Compassion's COMPASS: Strategies for Developing Insight, Kindness, and Empathy

“How Joyous Efforts Work is pure and optimistic, with a magnetism that won't quit. Janet Ettele has created archetypal characters, with one foot in this world and one beyond; I couldn't put it down.”

– Dr. David Kittay, Columbia University Department of Religion; Translator of The Varjra Rosary Tantra and The Dharma Council Sutra

“Ms. Ettele integrates complex Buddhist teachings in a simple yet powerful way that keeps the reader engaged and connected to Buddhism.”

– Paul Neri, Luthier, and Author of the Acoustic Guitar Repair Detective