by
4.16 of 5 stars
Although a widely observed and respected practice in America, Buddhism is still difficult for many seekers to thoroughly grasp. Now, Adrienne Howle... read full description

reviews

Apr 25, 2011
Christopher rated it: 4 of 5 stars
A very enjoyable read (listen) and perfect starting point for any person curious to know more about Buddhism. I've been on the fringes of Buddhism for a number of years and whilst I knew most of the principles of Buddhist philosophy I lack the whole picture (without the doctrinal overlay). The Venerable Adrienne Howley uses her knowledge of the cultural context of Buddhist cultures to explain many of the environmental influences on Buddhist thinking, both at the time of Buddha and since.

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Dec 04, 2010
Cwalker rated it: 3 of 5 stars
A good introduction to the teachings of the Buddha without any cultural trappings or religious overtones. Difficult ideas to aspire to as a way of finding spiritual peace: everything interconnected but constantly changing; no permanency; no constant; no soul; no god; no "thing" except in relation to every other thing and all changing and impacting on everything else every nanosecond; taking comfort (?) from the universality of suffering; and needing to find personal responsibility for More...
Oct 28, 2011
Greg rated it: 5 of 5 stars
If I were to recommend one book that describes my interpretation of Buddhism, this would be it. This book leaves the various practices and religious overtones to someone else and concentrates on the teachings of the Buddha only. A good explanation of underlying concepts such as interconnectedness, impermanence, no soul, no god, no thing.

Far from nihilism, it is a recognition of the impermanence and always changing and eternal progression of everything not to mention the existence More...
Oct 28, 2010
Zack rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Refreshing, well-written and instructive. Removes the baggage that has gathered around this subject over the last couple thousand years, or so.
Feb 19, 2010
Robert rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Very easy to understand, practical introduction to Buddha and related teachings. Debunked myths and offers practical use of his teachings.
Aug 07, 2010
Dave rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Well written and understandable for the layperson. Will have to reread several times to absorb!
Jun 05, 2011
Sean rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Good overview of the fundamental aspects of Buddhism.
Nov 25, 2009
Brian rated it: 4 of 5 stars
A very good philosophical overview of Buddhism from a Buddhist nun. For someone just beginning practice, I'd call this an invaluable introduction.
Jan 19, 2009
Sarah rated it: 5 of 5 stars
A very informative book about Buddha and the origins of the Buddhist philosophy. Intriguing.
Aug 07, 2011
Wilma rated it: 5 of 5 stars
* * * * * Marvelous book, beautifully written. This is a book I will revisit many times.
Dec 19, 2010
Dana rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Clear, concise, brilliant.
Jul 01, 2010
Jen rated it: 3 of 5 stars
There was nothing wrong with this book, in fact I enjoyed what I read, but I kind of felt like I’d gotten out of it what I wanted to and decided to focus my energies on the many other books I had on my shelf instead – like the ones I’m reading for a review and the fiction books that I’m really enjoying.
Mar 31, 2008
Caroline rated it: 3 of 5 stars
I borrowed this book from a library and lost it, then years later it popped up again. A basic, no nonsense review of Buddha's teachings stripped of cultural and religious interpretations. That's why it's called 'naked'. Nothing kinky.
Aug 12, 2008
Cam rated it: 5 of 5 stars
The most concise, practical introduction to Buddhism that I have ever read...
Dec 16, 2011
Amy rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Good reference and well-written. This stays in my library!
Dec 17, 2009
Michelle rated it: 3 of 5 stars
I am enjoying this thus far.
Dec 26, 2009
Casandra rated it: 5 of 5 stars
A very informative look at Buddhism for the non-buddhist!!!
Feb 09, 2012
Amber is currently reading it
Jan 31, 2012
Amber rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Jan 07, 2012
Orygunreader marked it as to-read
Dec 28, 2011
Jason rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Dec 22, 2011
Rina is currently reading it
Dec 17, 2011
Bob rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Dec 29, 2011
Shadawyn added it
Nov 30, 2011
Alexandre marked it as to-read
Nov 29, 2011
Zhichao rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Dec 21, 2011
Joe added it
Oct 09, 2011
Wes marked it as to-read
Oct 05, 2011
Danielle rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Oct 02, 2011
Brian rated it: 4 of 5 stars