I'm sure if I pick this book up again in five or ten years I'll change my opinion of it but I really didn't enjoy this one too much. For me, the author came off a bit snobbish talking about his archery, riding horses, and playing golf -- my impression of him was of a young Siddhartha before leaving the palace. I am confident, however, that he is not a snob and instead a very descent, humble fellow. By the time I had read this book I had read many intro books. So I found a lot of the discussion on dukkha and meditation somewhat of a repeat. I would recommend this as a first, second, or third book to "first-timers" -- but like I said I'm sure I'll change my tune when I go back to revisit it in a couple of years. ( )

This is the best introduction to the practice of shamatha (calm abiding) meditation. Down to earth, useful and full of wisdom. JB