What Is Zen?: Plain Talk for a Beginner's Mind

This unique introduction to Zen teaching and practice takes the remarkably accessible form of question-and-answer—making it a most useful reference for looking things up. But whether you're a neophyte or a seasoned practitioner, you'll want to read the whole thing. The questioner (Susan Moon) and the answerer (Norman Fischer) are old friends, each with a unique gift for articulation, and their friendly conversation covers not only the basics but a range of issues unique to Zen in America in the twenty-first century, including:


   • What is zazen and how do you do it?

   • Where did Zen start and where did it come from?

   • Will I have an enlightenment experience?

   • What is the law of karma in a nutshell?

   • What do Zen Buddhists say about rebirth?

   • How do you recognize a good, solid Zen teacher?