Recommended Reading

The following is a short suggested reading list for those who are new to Zen practice. Most of these books are available at the Vermont Zen Center, or you can purchase them through Amazon.com.

• The Three Pillars of Zen
  By Roshi Kapleau. One of the most important 20th century works of the transition of Zen Buddhism to the West. Together with "Merging of East and West," an excellent introduction to Zen as practiced at the Vermont Zen Center.
  
  

• To Cherish All Life
  By Roshi Kapleau. A Buddhist case for vegetarianism and the humane treatment of animals.
  
  
• The Zen of Living and Dying
  By Roshi Kapleau. A Zen Buddhist approach to death, peace and meaning in life.
  
  
• Peace Pilgrim
  By Peace Pilgrim. The inspirational writings of a woman who preached peace and nonattachment.
  
  
• Lotus in the Fire: The Healing Power of Zen
  By Jim Bedard. Toronto Zen Centre member Jim Bedard recounts his battle with cancer and his reliance on Zen practice to lend meaning and strength.
  
  
• Zen Teaching, Zen Practice
  Edited by Kenneth Kraft. Essays by Dharma Heirs and others about Roshi Kapleau and his influence.
  
  
• Zen Tradition and Transition
  By Kenneth Kraft. A sourcebook on Zen practice and teachers.

The Zen classic by Roshi Philip Kapleau

A collection of essays about Roshi Kapleau's legacy

Powerful book about recovering from a near-terminal illness