Recommended Books
I own and have read a few books on Buddhism (here’s what I’ve cataloged thus far). Below are the ones that I’ve read and can recommend most. There are many “classics” that I haven’t gotten to yet. With time.
Of course, your list might be totally different. After all, what do I know?
Zen
Hardcore Zen: Punk Rock Monster Movies & the Truth About Reality by Brad Warner
This is the book that rang my bell, shook my salt shaker, and slapped me silly. A great read, even if Zen isn’t your thing.
Sit Down and Shut Up: Punk Rock Commentaries on Buddha, God, Truth, Sex, Death, and Dogen’s Treasury of the Right Dharma by Brad Warner
A worthy follow-up to Hardcore Zen.
Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki
A classic for a reason.
One Robe, One Bowl: The Zen Poetry of Ryokan by Ryokan
Some great poetry if you appreciate beauty in brevity.
How to Cook Your Life: From the Zen Kitchen to Enlightenment by Eihei Dogen
It can be hard to summarize zen thought in a concise, understandable way, despite it being a very practical philosophy. Kosho Uchiyama Roshi manages to do so and even Dogen’s “Instructions for the Zen Cook” is quite accessible in this translation.
The Art of Just Sitting: Essential Writings on the Zen Practice of Shikantaza edited by John Daido Loori
Some of the stuff’s a little heady, but overall a good read.
General Buddhism
Money, Sex, War, Karma: Notes for a Buddhist Revolution by David R. Loy
Terrible title, excellent book on engaged Buddhism and the responsibility of Buddhists in the west to use the dharma to be active, cause change, and increase understanding.
The Great Compassion: Buddhism and Animal Rights by Norm Phelps
Food of Bodhisattvas: Buddhist Teachings on Abstaining from Meat by Shabkar
Put down the milk, eggs, and meat. You know you should.
