Elements of Buddhism

John Snelling provides a compact, accessible introduction to Buddhism. He includes a background on Siddhartha Guatama, and a brief description of how Buddhism spread. He gives an overview of the basic Dharma teachings (and meditation practice) and also describes each of the major Buddhist schools. This book is only 124 pages, so it does not provide an in-depth level of detail. I would recommend Buddhism: Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen as a good follow-on to this introduction, if the reader is interested in learning more. Also, Heart of the Buddha's teachings by Thich Nhat Hahn for a more advanced description of the Dharma.

Every beginning Buddhist, and every practioner who has friends who wonders what Buddhism is all about, will appreciate having this book at hand. Don't lend it out though--you may not get it back. I consider it a major addition to my small library of Buddhist books.

Very well illustrated, and easy to follow, this book provides a very good introduction to Buddhism.