The Beginner's Guide to Walking the Buddha's Eightfold Path

I am not sure what book I would recommend for beginners. I would recommend Jean Smith's book for intermediates and beyond. Reminds me of the labels given to ski runs on a mountain. She covers a wide breath of thought using everyday speech peppered with personal stories, as well as quotes from other Buddhist teachers. Very inclusive. The ending section which reviews the major forms of meditation practice is extremely good. I have not encountered before such an extensive list of ways to meditate from various Buddhist traditions so well described. I don't give it five stars because I think it is mis-titled and the quality of the paper it is printed on is poor. Neither of these things may be Ms. Smith's choices.

Buddhism is at once a very simple and very complex religion (or, if you prefer, philosophy). It can seem to be a very daunting topic to the newcomer who is not very familiar with Eastern traditions. Fortunately, Jean Smith comes to the rescue with this expertly crafted guide to the core principles of Buddhism. Reading this book is like having an old friend take you by the hand and gently walk you through the world, opening your eyes to the way things truly are. Jean's style of writing is both relaxed and wise, and each chapter is filled with quotations, stories, and analogies to help your mind (and heart) grasp the various aspects of the Eightfold Path.There is much wisdom between these two covers. If you've ever been mystified by Buddhism, I highly recommend this book above all others as your starting point.