Carlos Castaneda

Carlos Castaneda was a Latin-American author best known for his series of books beginning with The Teachings of Don Juan in 1968.

These works, purportedly based on his experiences with a Yaqui shaman named Don Juan Matus, describe Castaneda's training in shamanism and Toltec traditions.

His books have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been translated into numerous languages.

While Castaneda claimed his works were non-fiction, critics have argued they are likely fictional.

The controversy surrounding the authenticity of his experiences has not diminished the impact of his writing on popular culture and New Age spirituality.