Tom Lowenstein

This introduction to Buddhism is readable and nicely organized. The subject is broken up into a number of smaller topics, each of which is briefly discussed over no more than four pages. These topics run the gammut from Buddhist folklore to doctrine around the world.

Though there are some dry spots, as one would expect in any reference work, the book is mostly interesting and informative. The illustrations are also nicely chosen; they provide a good counterpoint to the text, and I appreciated show more that almost all of them were in colour. It's always difficult to really appreciate a work of art from a poor-quality black and white reproduction, but even the b&w and sepia toned pictures were clear and easy to digest.

Overall, I found the book interesting and thought-provoking. It was a good introduction to the religion, and Lowenstein takes a decidedly non-preachy stance. Though he mentions evangelism as a key point in many Buddhist sects, I didn't get the impression that he was trying to convert anyone with this book. It seemed that he was simply presenting the facts; as someone with an interest in all religions, I really appreciated that tone. show less

Leave it to the Brits to create one of the best buddhist books I have read in awhile. This book is chock full of gorgeous images. The text flows almost flawlessly until the end when it briefly discusses Pure Land. It leaves the reader hanging, wanting more instead of a glossary at the end. The author worked to create mini exercises that someone who does not practice buddhism could do on their own to see what the hubub is about. A great book to have for someone who wants to know more about show more buddhism but does not want to read a weighty text. show less

Almost as much space is devoted to the photos and other illustrations as to the text and I spent nearly as much time poring over them as reading. This book would make a great introduction to North American Indian myth and religion just because of the great illustrations. The text organization leads to a bit of repetition but not enough to bother me and I really enjoyed this beautiful volume. While much of the material had been covered in other reading I've done over the last two years, I show more still learned new things from both the authors and the choice of pictures and would recommend the book, especially for those unfamiliar with Indian lore and customs. show less

Buddhist Inspirations offers a beautiful illustrated distillation of Buddhist belief, practice and art. Generously furnished with superb photographs and specially commissioned artworks as well as enlightening quotations from the sacred texts, the book presents a fascinating kaleidoscope of all aspects of Buddhism, including Tantra, Zen and the Pure Land beliefs of Japan. The emphasis throughout is on the wisdom, healing power and beauty of Buddhism and on its abundant relevance to those in show more the West who seek an alternative to secular materialism. show less