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Anonymous

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Great introduction to Buddhism

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
4 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 01-30-18

So many books come from viewpoint of the monastic tradition of Buddhism that it is refreshing and quite enlightening to see the lay-Buddhist perspective. The concept of the secret practice is very thoroughly discussed, and I must confess that it is indeed a large part of what holds us back. The message of the book is well-versed and down to earth to a sufficient enough degree that it makes even more sense. A topic that is covered, though may stand to suffer further discussion is the nonmystical mysticism - the fact that Buddhism is religion just as much as not-collecting stamps is a hobby, something often remarked about Atheism. The whole fact of not relying on belief is, in my opinion, important for relaying the message of Buddhism to contemporary western people - that it is not a paradigm to conflict with Abrahamic religions, religious practice, etc. Finally, the narrator. Frankly, in the beginning the husky voice was a bit of a distraction, but with the perceived topic the age and gravitas that the narrator imbued contributed significantly to the whole experience. All in all, a must-hear book from a great author and solid narrator.

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