Buddhism Plain and Simple

Since its launch in 1996, Broadway's Buddhism and Spirituality Program has built a reputation for publishing accessible, stimulating books that bring the ancient philosophies and wisdom of the East to Western readers. From groundbreaking works by leaders in their fields to prescriptive, hands-on guides to incorporating the principles of Buddhism into our daily lives, Broadway's eclectic list has something for readers at all stages of enlightenment and all walks of life.

You might want to digest this book slowly, a few pages at a time. Although Zen teacher Steve Hagen has a knack for putting the philosophy of Buddhism in a "plain and simple" package, it may take a while to sink in. There is so much there. Seeing reality, realizing the wisdom of the self, breaking free of dualistic thinking--this is pretty heady stuff. Thankfully, Hagen passes it along in the form of examples from life, psychological tidbits, and stories from Buddhist teachers past and present. And when it clicks in, it can be life-transforming. Hagen explains this shift in outlook and how the fundamental way we look at the world affects everything we do. As an outline, Hagen follows the basic teachings of the Buddha, and we see that, rather than dogmatic truths, they are reminders for us as we reconsider the life we have taken for granted for so long. As it turns out, Buddhism is life, plain and simple. --Brian Bruya