The Best Buddhist Writing 2010

Since 2004 the editors of the magazine Shambhala Sun have compiled articles and excerpts from recently published books for an annual edition. This volume's essays fall loosely into the categories of meditation, Buddhist theory, practicing in the world, mindful living, and Buddhism in the West. Coping with suffering and loss is a persistent theme. Distinguished American Buddhists from vipassana, Zen, and Tibetan Buddhist traditions are represented; writing styles vary from Thich Nhat Hanh's simple prose to Diane Ackerman's lyricism. Alongside lucid if earnest advice, some distinctive voices emerge: Jarvis Jay Masters on a brief outing from death row; Jaimal Yogis on searching for—and not finding— enlightenment in the perfect wave; John Tarrant on time well spent with his dying father; Hannah Tennant-Moore's raw account of connection in the midst of depression. As always, the value of such a book is to acquaint casual readers with unfamiliar writers they might want to explore in more depth. A tighter focus and greater selectivity would have helped this book better live up to its "best" designation. Yet most readers should find helpful information or an arresting take on the world through a Buddhist lens. (Sept.)