The Everything Buddhism Book: Learn the Ancient Traditions and Apply Them to Modern Life

I am starting to read more into Buddhism and this book was a perfect start. It introduced me to everything from the history, practices, rituals, beleifs, etc. I was very happy with this purchase.

I was given this book as a gift from an individual who is part of my sangha. I was delighted to uncover all the riches and wisdom bestowed within. It covers all grounds except a few more esoteric subjects (which I think readers should get other more advanced/specific books for). This book is great to establish a fundamental foundation of all the basic principles of Buddhism. This book is extremely easy to read. The structure and flow of the text is in a very proper and orderly way. The first few pages is good enough to capture any audience. I was inspired from the moment I started reading. The book also offers some techniques and practices which are also very helpful. I tried a session of meditation after reading some of the recommendations and it had a great impact on my session. Overall, a must buy if you're hoping to get acqainted or learn more about Buddhism. This book is a great stepping stone to further more intensive study and research on the various topics discussed in the book. Don't expect it to be the final or only book about Buddhism you should buy. Rather, think of it as a entry way to more comprehensive and precise study.

This book is amazing if you know nothing about Buddhism. Its full of facts and history, but the only thing it was lacking (or maybe it just didn't answer my question) was the actual practice or discipline. It briefly touched on the subject of meditation and how to do it, but thats about it. Otherwise this book is excellent!

(4.75 Stars)It was in chapter 1 on page 3 that I was struck: "The teaching of Buddha lead us to the practice of a truthful life." - I thought that was put so well and it really spoke to me - hey I'm only 3 pages in and I'm this impressed - page 3 sets up some pretty high expectations for the rest of this book - and I was not disappointed.First - this is an introduction type book. So for the beginner it is great. There are lots of areas covered and lots of issues, practices, schools of thought and miscellaneous things addressed. Like the book itself says - Learn the ancient traditions and apply them to modern life.For the more advanced practitioner/student this is a wonderful review and different perspective on some of the fundamentals of Buddhism. I'm a huge fan of introduction type of books to Buddhism - each author has their own perspective on certain things. So you never really read the same thing twice in any of these books. I did think there would be a little more information on some of the traditions. I would have liked more in-depth explanations on how some events are dealt with - specifically births and funerals. Regarding death and funerals I know how Christians and Jews formally handle them - with a wake or sitting Shiva, but I wanted to know how Buddhist do it too.This really is a fantastic book, fun and easy to read. I highly recommend it. Also I recommend Buddhism For Dummies either before or after this one - either way you'll get a great vision and introduction to Buddhism.

This book is perfect. It gives you everything you could ever need to know about Buddhism. It gives you the principles, history, story of the Buddha, and everything you need to practice Buddhism. If you recently became interested in Buddhism, then buy this book. Peace and go to www.lp.org. It's the only way to freedom.