Thanissaro Bhikkhu

Right Mindfulness: Memory & Ardency on the Buddhist Path. For the past several decades, a growing flood of books, articles, and teachings has advanced theories about the practice of mindfulness which are highly questionable and—for anyone hoping to realize the end of suffering—seriously misleading. The main aim of this book is to show that the practice of mindfulness is most fruitful when informed by the Buddha’s own definition of right mindfulness and his explanations of its role on show more the path. show less

Easy to read and short enough to finish in one sitting, this is a good overview of the basic Theravada tradition. It strikes a good balance of practical application, history, and theory. The writing is very accessible and this is an excellent introductory text, though it obviously lacks depth due its short length.

Analytical essay tracing how European/American Romantic ideals shaped modern portrayals of Buddhism and assessing their impact on practice and doctrine. Not a practice manual.

A careful and deep re-examination of Anatta, with a focus on Buddha’s original teachings on “Not-Self”. Very different from an understanding of “No Self”. Excellent.