First, an important distinction. Psychonauts use hallucinogenic substances for spiritual religious or shamanic experiences, rather than as drugs. The intended use and outcome is a critical part of the experience, often leading to insights and lessons that may not be realized when explored recreationally. But as Jesso reveals in his latest book, The True Light Of Darkness , the journey can prove to be anything but an escape.

The general public may be waking up, once again, to the healing and restorative power of plant medicine, thanks in part to “psychonaut” pioneers, like James Jesso, who push the social and cultural boundaries around the topic of psychedelics, hallucinogens and entheogens.

From the author of Decomposing The Shadow: Lessons From The Psilocybin Mushroom, comes a captivating and vulnerable exposé into the dark recesses of the human psyche. The story follows the author as he recounts three of his most turbulent and dark experiences with visionary mushrooms. Through the retelling, he takes us along his journey through depression, self-loathing, inadequacy and feeling unable to love and out the other side into confidence, courage and inspiration. From day time trips with friends gone sour, beyond a night ripe with psychotic breaks, and into the watery confines of facing depression in a sensory deprivation tank, The True Light Of Darkness is a vehicle of insight on what it means to ask to be broken in the hopes of finding wholeness.

A cautionary tale told with artful precision, The True Light Of Darkness ultimately suggests that there is much to be learned from plant medicines.

Hear more from James Jesso on his journey in writing this book: