I have been pretty sniffy about graphic novels but, I must admit that the factual application of the technique, as used by the 'for Beginners' series, works admirably. This book,as with others from the series which have crossed my reading table, is deceptively simple: it is written in a slightly jokey fashion and every page is a sketch with a few tight notes around it. This tome is quickly read but, certainly supports a second reading. It is packed with as much information as one would expect to find in one containing ten times the 169 pages actually occupied.

This book takes us from the Buddha all the way through to modern day Buddhist theory with more than enough detail to satisfy casual interest, or to provide a solid basis from which the more serious student may launch an investigation of this ancient philosophy.

I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone wanting to acquaint themselves with Buddha. ( )

'Buddha For Beginners' is a very entertaining book. ( )

I didn't really know much about Buddhism when I got this book. It doesn't tell how to be a Buddhist, but it does tell you about the different kinds of Buddhism, the history of Buddhism and the current state of Buddhism. With most of the "Introducing" books it doesn't tell you everything in great detail, it tells you enough to know where to go next. The graphic part of the book always help me associate images with concepts which helps me remember the concepts. So I rate the illustration better than just "comic" value, actually helpful. Page 145 and 146 has an excellent images that help me remember the meaning of the concept of reincarnation.
The reference section in the back, is useful for further study on the subject. I always find "Introducing" books a good starting point for finding out what a subject is about. I recommend the book for anyone who has a causal interest in what Buddhism is about. For a more serious look at Buddhism, well I don't know yet. ( )

This is a graphic novel type book. I'm usually not drawn to that kind of format, but this is a a surprisingly informative, concise little book. Took an hour or two to read and left you with as much info as many longer, dryer, introductory works on buddhism. Contains the usual history of buddhism, all the truths, and paths, and vehicles that everyother intro includes. Good first book, or refresher book. ( )