FINDING THE MIND - ROBIN COOPER

RATING B-

The book offers insight into the Buddhist (all styles of Buddhism) viewpoint of 'the mind'. Page 54 reminded me of my 'hoarding' father - I am currently disposing of said hoardings, bit by bit. There was new-to-me information/sources on the Buddha's life in chapter 7. I found the table on page 94 helpful as was the table on page 98. I found the chapter on Western similarities very difficult to follow. As usual, what should be the easiest, was the least.

I would recommend the book to those interested in both Buddhist and Western psychology and comprehension of the mind, but mainly to those seeking a 'summary' of various Buddhist views in relation to the mind.

THE AWAKENING MIND - GESHE TASHI TSERING

RATING B-

Another Mahayana book that has offered me assistance to continue with already learned practices now seen in a new light. Various sections stood out to me, but this is because of my personal practice and understanding - different areas would stand out to different readers. For me, detailed analysis of several 'numerical lists' & the chapters on altruism and compassion stood out.

I have begun to try to read a mixture of books that advance me from where I am at to the next steps along, and this book is one of the books that will assist me. I found that it is number 4 of a collection of books, so may soon be searching to buy the rest of the series.

This book is suited to Mahayana practitioners, FPMT students, Buddhist readers looking for a new take on familiar topics, and students of Lama Zopa Rinpoche.

BEYOND MY CONTROL - SUZAN COLLINS

RATING: B

A heart-breaking nightmare is revealed in this true story of the unfortunate demise of an elderly lady and the battle against bureaucracy that her daughter goes through when trying to put things right. Rigmarole follows mistake, follows error, follows carelessness, as things get worse instead of better in the situation. The daughter battles onward beyond the end, but finds no true solution, only eventual peace when letting it go, knowing she has done all that she could do. The author continues to fight for a better social care/health system.

Along with the story, are multiple ideas that can help you if you go through a similar situation - what you should do, what you can do, what you must do. Contact information for organizations that may be able to help in such situations are also given, as is advice for dealing with problems with the NHS care system both in hospital and homes.

It brings to mind both good and bad memories of hospital staff which my recently deceased father encountered - and I am grateful that his NHS mishaps were minor and more to do with his own perception and discharge difficulties than actual medical faults.

I would recommend this book to carers, NHS staff, those with elderly friends or relatives in care homes/hospital, and those interested in the understanding the British health system. It was loaned to me by a friend who has also reviewed the book HERE.

RICHARD HITTLEMAN'S YOGA 28 DAY EXERCISE PLAN - RICHARD HITTLEMAN

RATING: B-

My first knowledge of yoga in this life was a Richard Hittleman TV show my mother used to watch. She even bought his book. Now that my mother and father have both died, I have inherited the family literature, including this book.

Although it does mention and introduce some other aspects of Yoga, it is primarily focused on the physical postures and increasing ones looks and physical fitness. However, the book does mention other branches of Yoga, which is something that escaped me as a child watching my Mom rolling round the floor trying to get into shape. Not as bad as I thought - but I am somewhat 'advanced' for this sort of 'starters' keep-fit style book.

I would recommend the book mostly to those wishing to get in trim or having a flashback to Western Yoga of the 1960/70's era.

THE TIBETAN YOGAS OF DREAM AND SLEEP - TENZIN WANGYAL RINPOCHE

RATING: A-

The connections between experience/realms was very interesting reading. Chapter three mentions women should sleep on their left side and men on their right - although I can see the logic of this from the pranic viewpoint, I find that getting less blood to the left hand side of the brain and more to the right gives me more realistic/useful dreams, whereas on the left, I get muddled messes. I also tend to sleep in the male position more often to control sinus issues and daytime problems. I found the description of three different levels of dream very interesting. I was also interested to learn the Tibetan viewpoint on what uses dreams have.

I would recommend the book to those interested in learning how to use dreams beneficially, those interested in Tibetan Buddhist practices, and those interested in the Bon Dzogchen ideas.

THE PATH OF YOGA - GEORG FEUERSTEIN

RATING: B+

A very interesting book with an attitude similar to my own in regard to Yoga. It covers the history and various branches better than many other books that I have formerly read, giving details on each aspect of Ashtanga Yoga along with quoting several texts from ancient sources.

Chapter 12 talks of issues that were clarified for me, pursuant to a former connection evolving. Various formats of Samadhi are explained - something I have been interested in but confused by the various versions of. This book explains what I have and have not yet accomplished, clearly.

I would recommend the book to those interested in a guide to REAL yoga, rather than merely the keep fit style Western yoga. I would also suggest you read it if you are interested in the philosophy &/or history of yoga.

GURU YOGA – DILGO KYENTSE RINPOCHE

RATING A

This book details the procedure and practice of guru yoga as practised by my own Nyingma lineage. It is what my primary practice would consist of were there to be a local Longchen Nyingtik practice center/monastery/teacher. This book was a gift gratefully received from an overseas friend who had finished using it.

I would recommend reading this book to those of Nyingma lineage especially, but all those wishing to practice guru yoga, as well as those interested in the teachings of DKR.

MOUTHWATERING VEGAN - MIRIAM SORRELL

RATING: B

A totally delicious gourmet-style vegan cookbook. If you are/want to be vegan, but enjoy serving fancy food, this is YOUR book! I usually eat simple, basic cook-from-scratch recipes, but every so often I like to eat something different, or I may have guests to entertain. I then love fiddling around in the kitchen to create interesting exotic/gourmet/regular-style recipes - and so have tried a few of these from FB posts prior to purchasing the book itself. (One of our family get togethers polished off 12 of the 14 slices of choc-nut cheesecake within half an hour, for example....)

My only complaints are that I do not have an ice cream maker to make their ice-cream recipes and do not like using tofu/soya products! I can get around this by using other ingredients and skipping the ice cream recipes though. It is inspirational....

I would recommend this cookbook to most people that like cookbooks - because it caters to vegan/vegetarian mouths, but will satisfy most others as well.

ESSENCE OF THE HEART SUTRA - HHDL

RATING:B+

The Heart Sutra is one of the first Buddhist chants I heard during my current life - at a Buddha's Birthday event in the local park, across the street from where I used to dwell. As I first heard it chanted, \i had not previously encountered it – however, later that day, I read about it in a book I had borrowed from the library.

It was much more difficult to study this text than I had imagined, but this might have been due to the fact my father has been ill and I only have half my concentration available. The 37 aspects listing was exceedingly interesting to me. I would like to work with it more, but there are so many texts and sutras/mantras to be learned and studied...

I would recommend this book to those wishing to study this text, read teachings from HHDL, and advance in their practices.

THE HEART OF COMPASSION - DILGO KHYENTSE

RATING: A-

Various parts of the book stood out including: the 8 incompatible propensities, how bad friends affect practice (in my case having family who disrespect my practice/lifestyle), the mention of Patrul Rinpoche saving many animal lives in Golok, and the prayer in Appendix 5.

I am beginnng to break through to a deeper level of comprehension on several matters - such as 'free from the 3 concepts' and various other points often mentioned in commentaries/texts. The more I read, the more ways things are put - the more I can understand how far I am and how far I have yet to go.

I would recommend this book to those interested in Mahayana teachings, interested in another viewpoint/teaching on Bodhisattvic living, and those who find the authors way of explaining tings helpful. I have another Dilgo Khyentse book coming up shortly, thanks to a friend who sent me a copy that I am just about to start reading.

THE JOY OF COMPASSION - LAMA ZOPA RINPOCHE

RATING: B+

Another book of encouragement from a trustable Lama. I tend to favor books that persuade me to practice harder and better than I do, even if - in comparison to non practitioners - I feel I have some advantage. The text brings about the need to practice... Chapter 2 contained such re-readable advice. Chapter four was enjoyable - as I can relate easily to Lama who talk about insects, insects being my strong point. This was an excellent preview for the FPMT course I have just started, also.

I would recommend the book to those wanting a booster to Mahayana practice practice as well as those who enjoy books by Lama Zopa Rinpoche.

HIMALAYA - MICHAEL PALIN

RATING: B-

This book was a relaxation book - one I could pick up and put down whenever I felt like it, rather than a study manual that I needed to focus intensely upon. I have an interest in the Himalayan region - its cuisine, religion, friends, lifestyle and culture in general appeal. It was interesting to get a different take on areas where I have a few friends living, have tasted (via DIY) the cuisine, and relate to the landscapes. I appreciate MP's attitude far more than the majority of famed British travelers, many of whom I would choose never to read another book from again. 

This actual book was purchased cheaply, secondhand, at a library sale in Worthing back in 2010. I began reading it straight away - but after a few pages, it got topped by a pile of books that were new and not yet read, and somewhat got trapped below them for some time. I recently shuffled my book piles around - in order to stack them with more books without toppling over - and this book got left near the top, enabling me to continue to read it. 

I would recommend the book to Michael Palin fans, people interested in the Himalayan region, travel enthusiasts, those wanting to dive beyond one aspect into others of the various regions, and also to those interested in photographs of this area.

THE EASY YOGA WORKBOOK - TARA FRASER

RATING: C+

I like the way that asanas are explained in this book – but I do not approve of the suggestions to use props! I also strongly disagreed with the point on page 120, stating that one 'can not successfully' meditate while lying down. Personally, I was using the lying down position before i knew meditation existed, to 'contemplate spirituality' - same thing/diff name. It was the easiest position for me to take when beginning meditating, therefore, I can safely say it DOES work - better than any other position for me, in fact.

A second major factor that disappointed me was the fact that the book was 'manufactured in China'. However, overall, I was glad that i read this book - as it emphasized a few factors that seem 'minor' in some other publications - such as the purpose of 'tucking in the tummy'. This may seem a minor matter, but it can make a big difference to a genuine practice!

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in an at-home Yoga practice that does not mind buying 'made in China' items.

SHAMBHALA - THE SACRED PATH OF THE WARRIOR - CHOGYAM TRUNGPA

RATING: B+

I found this book to be a parallel course of practice to my own, therefore quite helpful for references, ideas and comparisons. Chapter six deals with the 'Great Eastern Sun', which is a good attitude that I can relate to. This book offers a different perspective on what I am currently working on. It 'backs up' my own path with a practice suggestion that is very close to what I already do and can therefore understand and enjoy reading about.

I would recommend it to those with no set path as yet, those looking at implementing a sideline structure of practice, or those interested in finding a practice method.

HEROIC LEADERSHIP - SCOTT T ALLISON & GEORGE R GOETHALS

RATING: B

Another of the books that I planned to buy primarily due to the fact a friend of mine co-wrote it. Packed with profiles of various heroes, from John Lennon to Harry Potter, the book covers a vast array of people considered to be heroes. Not only are we introduced to 100 such noted beings, but we are given text on why they were considered, what type of hero they are, why they are classified as such and the relationships between heroes and leaders.

I would recommend the book to those interested in modern psychology, investigating heroism/leadership, and looking for a non-fiction read on an irregular subject.

TIBET - YESHI CHOEDON & DAWA NORBU

RATING: B+

A beautiful book or large proportion filled with both text and photographs. The photos cover a widespread array of Tibetan culture, including people, places, religion, scenery, and buildings. The text explores the people, religion, culture, land, history, and traditional celebrations. I found it enjoyable to browse through the photographs, daydreaming....

I would recommend this book to those interested in a basic guide to the Tibetan culture and also to those interested in cultural photography. I enjoyed getting lost in some of the scenic pictures, dreaming....

THE CRYSTAL AND THE WAY OF LIGHT - CHOGYAL NAMKHAI NORBU

RATING: A

This is the first time I have understood that 'voice' may relate to inner energy - very helpful! I have learned a lot from this book, and was able to relate well to the chapter on 'The Path' where it talked about prana. As well as clarifying several mystery points, I was able to travel new ground and learn where I was headed and how far I had got. (Not currently having a Dzogchen teacher, I get a little curious at times.)

I would recommend this book to those looking for information on Dzogchen as well as to those practicing and needing a guide.

THE WISE HEART - JACK KORNFIELD

RATING: C+

What is known as 'mood contagion' or 'limbic resonance' interests me from page 17 & continuing into 'mirror neurons' on page 26. I also found chapter three's recognition of know-mind and knowing something easy to relate to. I had found these from personal observation before knowing what to call them! I found the Buddha's words that open chapter 19 a helpful reminder. The chapter on concentration explains my pre-Buddhist practice/study abilities quite well.

I did find it difficult to jump from one mode of Buddhism to another so frequently - but that is me at fault and not the text. When first exploring Buddhism, I liked to read of all types, until settling into Thai Forrest and Tibetan Vajrayana. Then I became absorbed in these, and other forms slipped out of sight as I focused on what I personally round helpful and relevant. So this text reminded me that Dzogchen-Nyingma is not the only Buddhist practice and reacquainted me with other forms of Buddhism. However, I do find this difficult, as in its modern Western format Buddhism can be all mish-mashed together and not really retain the essence of any specific practice.

I would recommend this book to those interested in psychology from a Buddhist aspect, but not to serious students of a specific lineage or practice. I would also recommend the book to those interested in Buddhism but not yet involved with a personal study.

DZOG CHEN MEDITATION - KHAMTUL RINPOCHE/GARETH SPARHAM

RATING: A-

This is the sort of practice that I am working towards. I am not quite advanced enough in pranayama for this specific practice, yet though, and I shall have to wait until I can find a new teacher to continue my studies beyond where i am currently working. However, it can do no harm to be prepared for the next step...

I would recommend this book to those beginning Dzogchen practice as a hint of what lies ahead, those in the midst of it as a guidance, and those advanced as a companion.

THE EARLY LIFE OF THE DALAI LAMA TENZIN GYATSO - CLAUDE B. LEVENSON

RATING: B+

A detailed rendering of the early years of the life of HHDL. It zooms in to describe the time period starting from his birth and identification and leading up until his trek into exile. Covering his family, monasterial training and monkhood, his life as a child, and how events unfolded to bring him into the adult world in a rush, the book explores events covered in his biographies with more detail.

I would recommend the book to those seeking a detailed description of HHDL's pre-exile years as well as those who would like more information on HHDL's time in Tibet.

LOVE MORE. FEAR LESS. FLOAT MORE. STEER LESS. - JOHN HALCYON STYN

RATING:B+

A collection of essays that I found inspiring. Drawing from life rather than a specific religion, the overall attitude is parallel to Buddhism, with a preference for peace and love over hate and ignorance. I could relate to quite a few events and realizations mentioned. Same outcome, different path to my own life's learning course...

I would recommend the book to those interested in stepping off the 9-5 picket fence track to take a peek at reality, those interested in modern essays, and those searching for security within insecurity or just ideas pertaining to reality.

THE SELF SUFFICIENCY BIBLE - SIMON DAWSON

RATING: C-

Although I read the majority of the book - I do admit I skipped the chapters/parts relative to livestock and butchery - being a vegan, these simply had neither interest nor relevance....

A fairly good, yet rather basic book, detailing various areas and basic instructions on how to live the self-sufficient lifestyle. Personally, I would have preferred more detail and less generalization. Personally interesting points made come from ideas for furniture polish without beeswax and the fact that seaweed contains Vit B12...

I would recommend the book to those seeking to dabble in self sufficiency, or those wishing to start but not aware of where to begin. I would hold off reading were you serious and determined and aimed at totality, however.

LIBERATING DUALITY WITH WISDOM DISPLAY - KHENCHEN PALDEN SHERAB RINPOCHE & KHENPO TSEWANG DONGYAL RINPOCHE

LIBERATING DUALITY WITH WISDOM DISPLAY - KHENCHEN PALDEN SHERAB RINPOCHE & KHENPO TSEWANG DONGYAL RINPOCHE

RATING: A

The introduction offered insight into my own experiences of seeing beyond eyesight, hearing beyond ear-reach, etc. I was drawn to the study on Guru Nyima Ozer - perhaps from a practice in a former life? I found the text very informative and hope to re-read the practices to start work on some of them - as time allows.

I would recommend this book to those practicing within the Nyingma lineages and to those interested in learning of the varying forms of Guru Rinpoche.

PROTONIC SPEAKING - GREG 'LUCRALOVER' ETHERTON

RATING: B

A pocket-sized book written by a friend of a friend. I like the example of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! Page 65 explains what I have attempted to express to my son, concerning how the people you hang around with and think of influence you; how their ways and attitudes rub off on you.

A very interesting read. I would recommend this book to those trying to find a non-religious path towards life improvement, those trying to find the right attitude to cope and progress in today's crazy world, and those interested in the various methods of improving one's life.

ENTHRONEMENT - THE RECOGNITION OF REINCARNATE MASTERS OF TIBET AND THE HIMALAYAS - JAMGON KONGTRUL LODRO TAYE

RATING:B+

I found the introduction to be very interesting. It clarified and cemented some of my questions and understandings. I recognize the preference for ordinary lay practitioners to be able to continue under the guidance of those who have known them and their practice previously, let alone that of returning masters, senior monks, and realized teachers, so the entire Tulku system is of great interest to me.

This book was published in 1997, some time ago now. Within 2 days of my having finished reading the book, there was news online concerning the current situation in Tibet referent to the Tulku system - with a new problem possibly arising courtesy of the Chinese governments' interference with this long standing process. The fact that the Chinese do not respect the Tulku system poses the danger that Tulkus under the age of 18 might not be able to continue to reside in their own monasteries for much longer, should the Chinese invaders choose to implement their control. (REF: http://tibet.justice.overblog.com/tibet-justice-shared-your-photo-17 )

BUDDHIST MASTERS MILAREPA - SUNITA PANT BANSAL

RATING: B-

Another of the biographies from the famous Buddhists series that I am planning to read. I had already read a collection of Milarepa's poetry, but not before encountered a selection with a built in bio. It was interesting to fill in some details that I did not yet know to the 'general picture' I already had.

I would recommend the book to those interested in learning about the historical Buddhist masters, reading Buddhist bios, and of course those interested in finding out more about Milarepa.

BODHISATTVA ATTITUDE - LAMA ZOPA RINPOCHE

RATING: A-

This book has brought awareness to some faults of mine. Page 32 mentions the joy in assisting insects. The prayer on page 172 is also meaningful to me. I would like to take on the main practices, but my time schedule does not allow this in addition to my current practice. Some of the prayers from the appendices will be able to be learned and taken on though - for instance, the one for ensuring that if you tread on a bug it is reborn in a favorable place is one I shall definitely be learning.

I found this a very helpful book and recommend it to those learning how to practice Mahayana Buddhism, those interested in making their practice worthwhile, and those with enough time to get deeply involved in this practice - either alone or in addition to their current practice.

WORDS OF WISDOM - LAMA SURYA DAS

RATING: B+

This small and short book could be gobbled down in an hour if you chose to, but I feel it is best appreciated when given more time in order to linger over each short phrase/verse. It is a collection of wise and witty sentences and sayings that makes you smile whilst encouraging contemplation.

I would recommend this book to those looking for modern short sayings to ponder as well as LSD fans.

MEDICINE BUDDHA SADHANA - LAMA THUBTEN ZOPA RINPOCHE/VEN. THUBTEN GYATSO

RATING:B

This is another version of the Medicine Buddha Sadhana that I can practice from. (I am currently memorizing one version, and have also read a shorter version, a longer version, and a book.) Medicine Buddha Sadhana is the last practice my former teacher gave me to work on before dying late last year and I therefore wish to pursue the practice as well as I possibly can in his memory. I have also had reason to increase my practice and prayers due to a recent situation in Golok - http://campaigntibet.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/recent-petition.html

I found this to be a decent length version with a similar layout to the version I am currently working on - but with less Tibetan. It would therefore suit someone who does not want to persevere with Tibetan pronunciation, yet still wished to practice the Medicine Buddha Sadhana.

BEING WITH DYING - JOAN HALIFAX

RATING: C

A bookful of advice for carers dealing with those that are dying and close to death. As a FT carer to my 89YO father, I thought this an appropriate book to read, especially as it comes from a Buddhist viewpoint, if mainly zen. HIGHLIGHTS: Page 27 - the entry beginning 'true compassion just does what needs' stands out. Chapter 5 was especially interesting to me.

I would recommend this book - as indeed I actually have - to carers who are dealing with those close to death, the elderly, or those seeking to further their general experience of caring from a Buddhist point of view.

THE WISDOM OF NO ESCAPE - PEMA CHODRON

RATING: B-

Chapter 9 on energy and the elements related to things I have been working on. I can see the 'undercurrent' energy below the words and actions people use. I did dot practice which helped me see the connections of energy flow. I also related easily to the chapter on Tonglen. Chapter 15 was also especially helpful to me personally.

I would recommend this book to anyone searching for some basic helpful ideas in their Western world practice, those that would like to go on a PC retreat but cannot, and those that find PC's language easy to understand and advice helpful.

LOTUS - KAZUAKI TANAHASHI & ALLAN BAILLIE

RATING:C

A collection of beautiful pictures and verse concerning the lotus flower. The photography is splendid and the verses wide of range - covering Buddhist, Hindu, Japanese and Chinese among the collection. A pleasant relaxing - and quick - read.

I would recommend this book to those seeking to have a leisurely read, interested in plant photography, or specifically drawn to the lotus flower/plant.

TOUCHING TIBET - NIEMA ASH

RATING:A

This is a book about traveling through Tibet, but so much more. It clearly depicts the difference between the kindly, cheerful Tibetan people and the stiff n starchy Chinese. It offers insight into the Tibetan customs and attitudes.

The piece where it refers to Western V Tibetan attitude to dead bodies is very interesting - as I share the Tibetan view. Sky burials make so much more sense than cremation or burial to me. Tibetan Buddhism = sanity in an insane world.

Maybe I am more Tibetan than Western - the 'bedtime rituals' on page 170 are nothing like mine for example and I value spiritual wealth far more than material.

I would recommend this book to those interested in reading about Tibet a few decades ago, the Tibetan people & culture, the Tibetan problems with China, and those interested in travel within Himalayan countries.

A CASCADING WATERFALL OF NECTAR - THINLEY NORBU

RATING:B

I found the first chapter difficult, the second enthralling. The Vimalamitra quote of page 57 was helpful. The quote on page 134 dividing phenomena between alaya and dharmakaya was also useful. I was interested to read of the drunk who liked to hear dharma.

Several other pieces stood out, although the overall benefit of the book for me was to draw me into deeper places that understood the meaning of these words - from my surface mind that did not. Digging deeper down, I could follow and understand the text - but if I used my superficial mind, I just found it a 'boring plod thru words'. That is the major benefit of difficult texts for me, to draw the understanding out from within - it is in there, but not always reached and seen. Reading complicated dharma books enables me to reach the places one needs to go and reactivate long lost understanding.

The book was them last one suggested to me by my late teacher, who passed away recently, but not read instantly due to having difficulty in finding time to indulge in reading rather than 'letting words go in and out of my head'. I would pass on the recommendation to those wishing to drag themselves forward into understanding from where they currently are - you need to get deep inside to comprehend this and it is very good for bringing back what you may have learned in a former life.

JAKE FADES - DAVID GUY

RATING:C+

I do not generally read fiction, but this being Buddhist fiction I gave it a shot. One part stood out strongly to my mind - where it mentioned finding the person they 'WANTED' to be - this seems a very good starting point for friendship and conversation that is often overlooked.

I do not have much experience with Zen Buddhism, but I found the turn of pace in the final two chapters that tied up all the loose ends memorable. I would recommend the book to those with a partial interest in fiction &/or Buddhism, rather than a serious Buddhist student.

THAT BIRD HAS MY WINGS - JARVIS JAY MASTERS

RATING: B

The interesting autobiography of a man growing up from a troubled childhood through a horrendous youth into an understanding adulthood. From heroin addiction, abuse, hold-ups and jail to the inner freedom of Buddhism. Words to horrify those of us brought up in regular conditions by traditional parents, yet pleasure as parts of this troubled life begin to fall into place albeit too late for full freedom. One wonders - what happens next - what is the final chapter going to be? But it is yet to be lived, so we do not know!

Recommended to those searching for an unusual autobio, a real-life Buddhist story that has not yet ended, or an easy read thru a difficult life.

DROPPING THE BOW:POEMS OF ANCIENT INDIA - POETRY ANTHOLOGY

RATING: B

A fairly short book that took me just two days to read. The poems I favor are on pages: 22, 25, 26, 30, 36, 49, 51, 65, 67, 71, 75, 81, 83, 84, and 89. Despite having been written several centuries ago, the words are simple to understand in comparison to such English works as Shakespeare or Chaucer. These poems still make sense today.

I would recommend the book to those wanting to sample some of the older dated poetry of India, Indian love poetry, or just have an easy read to open and relax the mind.

AWAKENING THE BUDDHA WITHIN - LAMA SURYA DAS

RATING: A

I have read this book before - several times; in fact, it is one of my favorite books. I first read it when borrowing it from Wollongong library back in 2005/6/7 when I first began to read books on Buddhism, & now that I have my own copy, I decided to read it again.

Ah! Lama Zopa Rinpoche was mentioned in this book! I had forgotten about that. Among other highlights, references to Dzogchen, pointing out awareness of body, emotions, thought, and deed, and the mindfulness meditation on page 351 were helpful.

I would recommend the book to anyone searching for a starting or continuing point for personal practice - or just as a good, informative read.

PRACTICING PEACE IN TIMES OF WAR - PEMA CHODRON

RATING: B+

A small and short - yet helpful - book.The text explains how individuals can take personal actions to assist with the lessening and alleviation of war within the world as a whole. I found chapter three on SHENPA to be especially helpful and will be following my read with some action/practice.

This is a good read for peace activists and people with personal wars. It is also worth reading if you want a few pointers at improving yourself.

THE POCKET TIBETAN BUDDHISM READER - REGINALD A RAY

RATING: B+

This book is a collection of quotations from Tibetan Buddhist masters throughout the ages. My favorite quote is on page 162, by Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche. Covering all Tibetan traditions and spanning the centuries, it is a concise 'what we believe' in the actual words of various respected masters.

I would recommend this book to those practicing Tibetan Buddhism as a reminder and back-up, while also recommending it to those curious as to what Tibetan Buddhism is about. I shall pop my copy on my alter for future reference.

Buddhist books, a general review, and my own favs

HERE is a link to a list of the 'best' Buddhist books for 2012. I could do my own top ten, perhaps - although most of the books I read over the past year were not actually written/published in the actual year...

HERE is a more general 2012 review, which includes authors who have died during the year as well as notable releases.

I could make a list of my top ten all-time books - which would include the one I am currently reading by Lama Surya Das and the biography of Acariya Mun. However, I doubt I would get beyond that, as there are a couple I have read and found helpful but forgotten the titles to! Look out for an upcoming report on the LSD book which I am currently about to begin the last 50 pages of - although I have read it a few times already. I have JUST finished another book, which I will report on shortly - and am a few pages from the end of another book...

As a child, my favs would include The Children of Green Knowe, The Hole in the Hill, and 7 Little Australians. As a teen, I prefered Children of the Stones, Ibsen's Peer Gynt, a few Shakespeare plays and various books on campanology. These days, I no longer read fiction - except for special occasions such as when a friend of mine has a fiction book published - I prefer Buddhist practice and theory, Indian philosophy, travel and vegan cookery...