Best Buddhist Books?

Reading the "profound, holy Dharma" fomented an inner dialogue that helped me to grow up, relax, and think about others (almost) as much as myself.
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Growing up, I was (as are most young punks) half-crazy with hormones, thoughts, adrenaline, ambition and insecurity.

What got me through those days? A great mom. Some great, patient girlfriends. Basketball, and baseball, and anything that tired me out. Meditation.

And, reading the "profound, holy Dharma"--a series of Buddhist books that, better than any would-be mentor, connected with my heart and mind and experience--and fomented an inner dialogue that helped me to grow up, relax, and think about others (almost) as much as myself.

My Favorite Buddhist Books*

  • For someone who's active in the world, family-oriented, not-too-cynical & not-too-religious: Shambhala.
  • For someone who just likes to read great writing: How the Swans Came to the Lake or Crooked Cucumber.
  • For just about anyone anywhere anytime: Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind or Wisdom of No Escape.
  • *for newer
    titles, see
    recommendations
    ) like
    Turning the Mind Into an Ally or Ruling your World (great for business types)
    or excellent books by
    ,
    , and a certain '
    .'

    PS: back in the day, I used to read a page of Training the Mind--it's so practical and helpful. Finally, it fell apart and I bought another, which now sits on my office desk.

    What are your favorite Dharma books, that you'd recommend for others?
    All traditions welcome! Thich Nhat Hanh? Zen? Insight?

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