Product Description Answers fundamental questions and issues that arise in the minds of modern Western individuals who are beginning this tradition of practical spirituality.
Great Buddhism Overview!July 1, 2008 I agree with the title of another review, "Buddhism 101". This book gives you all the basics in a thorough, yet easy to understand manner. If you know a little about Buddhism but want to know what it all means, this is the book for you. Another review said it was not a good book for the layperson, but I disagree. This is a wonderful book for anyone who wants to learn more about Buddhism. The author writes very well, which is a bonus in my opinion. I highly recommend it.
Buddhism for BeginnersApril 25, 2008 This book was very informative and written in a "Q&A" style that made it so simple to understand. If you are contemplating Buddhism, or just looking for more information on the practices, this is THE book for you. It is a very quick read and very informative. I found it key to my making a decision to join the Buddhist Faith.
ReviewsJanuary 28, 2008 "Chodron's plain English makes her beginner's guide nearly perfect for those new to Buddhism and those who simple want to learn more."--Booklist, American Library Association
"This is a very thoughtful contribution to Buddhist teachings."--NAPRA ReView
"A very compassionate book. Her approach is nonsectarian and emphasizes the basic unity found within Buddhism."--Ryo Imamura, Jodo Shin Priest and Professor of Psychology at Evergreen State College
"Her lucid, correct, clear, and convincing manner is highly commendable."--Ven. Dr. Havanpola Ratanasara, College of Buddhist Studies, Los Angeles
"A beginner's guide to making life more simple and joyful."--Elizabeth Barker, New Age Journal
"Ven. Thubten Chodron is especially skilled in presenting Buddhist philosophy and practices in ways that are easily accessible and practical for Buddhists who live in the Western world."--Ven. Hung I Shih, Abbot, Jade Buddha Temple, Houston
"By answering the most basic questions, Thubten Chodron helps practitioners dispel confusion and gain a realistic, down-to-earth approach to the Buddhist path."--Alexander Berzin
"A beautifully simple book for the curious, beginner, or anyone who has ever thought about practicing. This book allows the reader to go from cover to cover, or skip to the chapters that truly interest them. There are no mystical words, no vague references or language problems. It's simple, basic English that will answer almost all the questions you have ever wanted to ask about Buddhism, but didn't know which book to read or who to ask."--Amazon Books
"This is the perfect gift for family and friends who wish to understand one's engagement with Buddhism. Thubten Chodron combines several decades of traditional training in Tibetan Buddhism with western psychotherapeutic relevance....That quality of integration is where the Venerable Thubten Chodron is such a powerful writer and teacher."--Branches of Light of Banyon Books
"Here is an excellent introduction to Buddhism. Most importantly, it offers good advice for anyone who wants to lead a more sane, balanced, and compassionate life."--Bodhi Tree Book Review
"I'd recommend this book not just for people interested in Buddhism, but really for everyone. A lot of what is mentioned is really common sense: be compassionate, tolerant, truly enjoy things, ask questions, which, in this day and age, we sometimes tend to forget. Consider this a 'refresher course in life.'"--The Feminist Review
More of a Q & A instead of how to practice Buddhism.December 30, 2007 3 out of 3 found this review helpful
This book although useful is more of a question and answer session instead of a how to go about practicing Buddhism. I really wanted something that explained what I must do to practice Buddhism. What I should read ie: Darhma, Sutra etc. It talks about meditation but does not tell you how to go about doing this and the methods you should use. I was slightly dissapointed.
A good primerNovember 16, 2007 1 out of 1 found this review helpful
This book is nicely written and is a good introduction to classic Buddhism-I would also recommend FREE YOUR MIND by Sensei Anthony Stultz Free Your Mind: The Four Directions of an Awakened Life as a companion volume which offers a more contemporary approach-together they provide an excellent overview of Buddhist wisdom.
