The tiny Buddha statue that is included with this book evokes Zen Master Shunryu Suzuki's response when he was asked why he bowed to a statue of the Buddha everyday. He said that the statue reminds us that Buddha is everywhere, including inside ourselves, so that when we bow to the Buddha, we bow to our own true nature. Manuela Dunn Mascetti has a knack for producing gorgeous books. In a brief 90 pages, she presents the core of Buddhism, while stunning Japanese paintings and woodblock prints shine forth from every other page. The effect is enchanting. With a summary of the Buddha's life and teachings, samplings from the Heart Sutra and the Dhammapada, and with a few traditional prayers, blessings, and chants, the entire package is a beautiful invitation to bow to, and to discover, our own true natures. Plus, you get the statue and a nifty little altar to boot. --Brian Bruya