Finding a Zen Center in North America

A Taste of Zen...Suggestions

Zen Flesh Zen Bones, by Paul Reps and Nyogen Senzaki

Start here, with this popular and inspiring book of stories that arose in me the Beginner’s Mind.

You are Here, by Thich Nhat Hanh and Melvin McLeod

Follow with a simple, straightforward, and moving introduction to Buddhism. Hanh has many.

Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind, by Shunryu Suzuki

Continue with this beautiful, clear, and wide ranging FAQ to Zen practice.

The Three Pillars of Zen, by Philip Kapleau

If you decide to practice Zen, this is unquestionably a book to have along for the ride.

Way of Zen, by Tenshin Fletcher and David Scott

An elegant, well presented, and readable guide to the history, culture, and practice of Zen.

Hardcore Zen, by Brad Warner

There is continuity in Zen realizations, but not in Zen Masters. The same but different, and this proves it.

Nine-headed Dragon River, by Peter Matthiessen

What is it like when one decides to follow a Zen path? Peter’s account of his own experience is superb.

The Way of Zen, by Alan Watts

A highly readable book that clarifies terms and history, and Zen’s connection with Taoism and Hinduism.