a simple "how-to" bookJune 16, 1999 10 out of 11 found this review helpful
If meditation can be made simple, this book is it. The author writes in a colloquial, easy to read style, anticipates most of the questions a learner may have about meditation, and takes the reader through an easy to understand step-by-step process. This book is a must read for anyone interested in learning about the mysteries of meditation.
Every time I read it, I learn something new!May 24, 1999 19 out of 21 found this review helpful
There are so many wonderful reviews of this book by "regular people," it's hard to add anything new. This is a book you will read again and again, finding new insights each time. I, too, have a library of books on Buddhism, meditation, mindfulness, etc.; and this one truly is in plain (though beautifully articulate) English. What a stunning contribution to Westerners who are trying to practice this wonderful tradition/philosophy/path/way of life. I so appreciate this book and its author. Thank you.
Snatching serenity from the hands of chaosMarch 21, 1999 9 out of 10 found this review helpful
The only word in this book that is difficult to of prounce is the author's name. It is written as if the author were a native English speaker who hated long words. Somehow, Gunaratana has listened to my mind as I attempted to meditate and has assured me that I am normal. Crazy, yes, but normal. As a 64 year old physician, I am pleased that someone has finally given a clear description of the frantic, chaotic nature of the normal human mind and of a simple way to calm it down.
Incomparable! One of a kindOctober 28, 1998 12 out of 12 found this review helpful
During the past ten years I have acquired and read (or suffered through) just about every book on meditation in print. Would that I had read this one first. Although this is the definitive text on the practice of mindfulness for the novice, even the seasoned practitioner will find much of value in its pages. The discussion on the nature of distraction is without equal in the literature. On the other hand, Ven. Gunaratana's book is not a "how to" book for the meditation technician. One who is unwilling to change one's view of the world will find no encouragement here. All in all, one would have to go to the Mahasatipatthana Sutta to improve on this book. Master it, and there will no need to read any other. It will teach you how to stand, and then to walk, trusting the wisdom inherent in your own feet. After that, you are on your own. "Mindfulness in Plain English" is quite simply the finest book on meditation in the English language.
Beautifully simple and direct. Without equal!March 23, 1998 2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I have a large library of meditative texts and scriptures and have meditated off and on for many years. This book is the first I have encountered that so thoroughly and simply explored it's subject that it truely is a beginner's manual, a 'How-To'. And yet it serves as a great review for more experienced practitioners. This book was the beginning of a wonderful relationship with the author, who is the most knowledgable yet warm and most approachable teacher I have ever met, in any tradition.
