If you are curious about Buddhism and seeking a simple, accessible introduction to its basic concepts, this book is for you.
I really enjoyed reading it and found it insightful. My favourite part was the explanation that there’s no permanent “self”. This really got me thinking about the impermanence of everything around us. Everything changes, even the concept of “I”.
Another aspect that I liked about this book was its modern and pragmatic style. While it’s rooted in ancient Buddhist philosophy, it speaks directly to a Western-minded reader.
So, the author has done an exceptional job of presenting Buddhism in a manner that is easy for anyone to understand, regardless of their religious background. His writing style is engaging and I’m now eager to read more books written by him.
Recommended For:
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in exploring Buddhism, but also mindfulness and therefore living the present moment.
Title: Buddhism Plain and Simple
Author: Steve Hagen
Year First Published: 1997
From Goodreads:
This book offers a clear, straightforward approach to Buddhism in general and awareness in particular. It is about being awake and in touch with what is going on here and now.
When the Buddha was asked to sum up his teaching in a single word, he said, “Awareness.” The Buddha taught how to see directly into the nature of experience.
His observations and insights are plain, practical, and down-to-earth, and they deal exclusively with the present.
In Buddhism Plain and Simple, Steve Hagen presents these uncluttered, original teachings in everyday, accessible language unencumbered by religious ritual, tradition, or belief.