The Complete Idiot's Guide to Hinduism

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Hinduism is a misnomer because there is so much to Hinduism that it couldn't possibly fit into one book, but Linda Johnsen does a masterful job of offering the most delicious slices of Hinduism that will leave you wanting to know more. This book was written with humor, with great love and with great wisdom. Her writing style is so delightful, you may wish the book never ends and for those who want to learn more, she has offered a resource list at the end of the book.

Trust me this is the best book one can find to begin with on Hinduism. I was searching for a right book on Hinduism to answer questions of my American friends until I found Linda's book. When I received this book in mail, I was reading two other books on Hinduism, I opened Linda's book just to check the condition of the book and then I could not leave it until I was finished, I forgot other two books. I was surprised with her ease and passion for subject and with language. To understand Hindu wisdom of tens of thousands of years is Herculean task but Linda makes it fun. This book gives you insight in to Hindu theology, mythology, society and at the same time offers fiercely objective comments on history and psyche of White dogmas. This is book is MUST before you read any other on Hinduism.

Yes, this book is broad overview, but it really explains Hinduisms basic principles clearly and in an easy to understand way. If you're interested in Hinduism read THIS BOOK First before you pick up a book on the Vedas etc. Many Hindu concepts are hard for Westerners to grasp and this book helps you grasp many of the fundamentals of the religion. After you read this check out some other books that the author sites in her appendix.

Hinduism which is widely believed to be the mother of all religions, is not only the oldest but very vast and complex to understand with various myths, fables, hear-says that form the core of the religion along with the mammoth works of Ramayana and Mahabharatha.This book is a very good starter for all those interested in learning about Hinduism. Amazing part of this book is the style of presentation - simple, factual, funny in places and with emphasis on the greatness of the religion in easy to understand words and format. Did i mean to mislead that it is only good for the starters? NO. it is not just for the starters - the references and explanations of various Hindu concepts of reincarnation (Poonar janmam), cosmic cycles (yugas), Atomic science (anu-paramanu vidya) and surprising facts like How caucasians still worship Hindu gods even today are appetizing even for a seasoned reader, Have studied sanskrit for several years and have read the works of several authors but this book is refreshing and inspires to learn more about Hinduism.

My husband is an American, not committed to Christianity, his religion by birth. I am a Hindu, born and brought up in India. Despite the gulf of difference in our understanding of Hinduism, we both have learned tremendously from this book. The appeal of this book lies in the in-depth knowledge of the authoress, plus the reverent, and yet humorous style, in which it is written.It's a widely known fact that the oldest religion on this planet is as vast as the sky itself. It cannot be contained in one scripture/book nor mastered in one lifetime. This book is THE CLOSEST to being an "appetizer" for Hinduism: a MUST-READ for anyone who wants to graduate to more advanced levels. I have been looking for Hinduism-related books for several years, especially one that my children could read and understand without constant goading. I am very happy that I have finally found one.