Linda Johnsen

This is a good overview of the history and philosophy; gods, people and places of Hinduism. Baring in mind that this covers over four thousand years of beliefs Johnsen doesn't do a bad job though sometimes her style did occasionally irritate me - but then what do you expect when you pick up an "Idiot's Guide". Johnsen is a convert to Hinduism and her passion for her chosen religion is obvious but this is not a flaw. I like people who are passionate about their subject.

Lots of good show more information, mostly clearly presented. An easy read with maybe a little bit too much repetition for my taste. Overall it was a worthwhile read. show less

"An enthralling, exciting book! Both scholarly and very readable, the author takes us to the temples, jungles, and cities of India to reveal a continuous lineage of Goddess spirituality unbroken for all of human history! It holds wonderful pilgrimage incidents, heart-stopping stories, and fine scriptural interpretation. This book will awaken the One sleeping in your heart. It will bring you joy."

I was not expecting anything close to the quality presented here. Anyone will have room to nitpick, which is a given for this kind of crib notes for thousands of years of history. That said, what's right overwhelms the wrong by a large margin.

This was an excellent, easy read. I enjoy researching Hinduism, and this book was able to teach me a few new things. A great find.