Here is a great deal of information, clearly and simply stated, in the shortest possible space. This book is a basic introduction to Buddhism, its history, teachings, practices and institutions, presented as accessibly as if it were in a magazine or newspaper.This book is concerned with Buddhism as practised both in the countries in which it originated and in the Western world. It describes the life of Buddha and Buddhist teachings; the life of Buddhist monks; mantras, mandalas and the Tibetan 'Book of the Dead'. It focuses particularly on Tibetan Buddhism, since the author has a personal acquaintance with the Dalai Lama. There is a glossary of technical terms, and a list of books for further reading.