THE POCKET DALAI LAMA - C&E MARY CRAIG

THE POCKET DALAI LAMA - C&E MARY CRAIG

RATING: B

A useful recap of many of HHDL's memorable quotes segmented into various categories. A pleasant and easy read to remind the reader of HHDL's wise advice. Personal favored quotes include those on page 52 concerning nature and pages 68/9 concerning universal responsibility.

I would recommend this book to those wanting a short and easy read on topics of importance to our shared world given as quotes by HHDL and those who want a brief update on HHDL's suggestions to improve both ourselves and the planet we share.

A BODHISATTVA'S WAY OF LIFE (prayer booklet for HHDL's AU teachings in 2011)

A BODHISATTVA'S WAY OF LIFE

 (prayer booklet for HHDL's AU teachings in 2011)

RATING: B-

This booklet accompanies the teachings from HHDL on Shantideva's classic text. It came along with the DVD set which I am about to play, while still on the subject - continuing from my last read. It contains prayers, some composed by HHDL.

I would recommend this booklet to those who have attended these teachings and to those who have the DVD set and would like to study rather than just listen to the teachings.

THE WAY OF AWAKENING - GESHE YESHE TOBDEN

THE WAY OF AWAKENING - GESHE YESHE TOBDEN

RATING:B

A detailed and helpful explanation style commentary on the famed Shantideva text, of which I have two copies that I studied with my late teacher, Sapan Rinpoche. I particularly admire the plentiful references towards HHDL. A fairly long book, but this is to its advantage.

I would recommend this book to those interested in studying the classic Shantideva text, who for whatever reason do not have a guide or teacher to share the expedition with them. I would also recommend this book to those familiar with the text who wish to review it, or seek an alternative viewpoint to clarify their current understanding.

ENCOURAGEMENTS TOWARDS AWAKENING - BHANTE BODHIDHAMMA

ENCOURAGEMENTS TOWARDS AWAKENING - BHANTE BODHIDHAMMA

RATING: B-

Seventy 1-2 page pieces of advice to assist meditation. Each piece could be read alone as a daily idea to focus on, or in a read-through of the entire book to build up on ideas, reinforcement, and suggestions to aid one's meditation practices.

I would recommend this book to Buddhist practitioners searching for snippets of guidance, fresh viewpoints, and/or a daily boost to their meditation practice.