Buddhism: A Concise Introduction

This is a short and readable introduction to the philosophy and the history of Buddhism. There are two chapters, one on the origin of Buddhism and the various lineages, and one on Buddhism in Europe and the United States (well, three chapters, actually, since there's an afterword on Pure Land Buddhism which doesn't get much space in the first chapter). Different flavors of Buddhism can be very different in theory and practice, so it's helpful to have a field guide to sort them all out. The 'Concise Introduction' is accurate; if you're interested in a particular flavor there are plenty of book references and mentions of well-known teachers within the lineage, but an in-depth study of any given tradition this is not.

The best history of Buddhism that I've ever read. It covers so many different angles and gives you a great overview. It is not complete, but the authors recognize this and leave you plenty of room to do your own research in areas of interest. For those of interested in not only the principals of Buddhism, but the background and history as well, this book is great place to begin, or to use to fill in the gaps.

A great overall view of Buddhism, containing the life of the Buddha, information on the various schools of Buddhism, and a history of Buddhism in America. Geared toward western audiences.

Good history information.

everyone should own this book