A Gradual Awakening by Steven Levine If you are looking for a very informative book that is easy to understand dealing with the subject of insight meditation (Vipassana) this is the one for you. It is just one of those books that you run across that seems to be such a treasure. I picked it up and could not seem to lay it down. I know you will enjoy this one. Book Description Poet and meditation teacher Levine writes simply and gently about his own personal experiences with and insights into vipassana meditation. An inspiring book for anyone interested in deep personal growth.		The Unfolding of Wisdom by Alan James 'It is like having lived all your life in a dark cave, never being sure where the walls, the ceiling or the exits were, never being sure of the real shape of the space around you. When at last you bring in some light to the darkness, immediately your old idea of the cave disappears. 'The illumination of true vision eliminates what had been total darkness. Now you know things as they are. What interest can speculative fantasies have for you now?' 'The Unfolding of Wisdom' is uncompromising. It presents the facts about spiritual progress. It is not for those who would speculate about symbolism or metaphor but for those who would dare to approach truth directly I would consider this book to be a must read on the path. Alan lays out instruction for the average person in a manner that is easy to read and understand. This book could be a very good referance guide.
	Insight Meditation: The Practice of Freedom by Joseph Goldstein Goldstein's book joins the growing list of guides to Buddhist meditation. Where Goldstein differs is in his approach. He starts from the questions that his students have asked over the course of years. As he notes, some of these questions are recurring, not just in one student, but in many. Consequently, Goldstein does not try to answer everything, but addresses those issues that are likely to come about as one begins the practice of meditation. The reader has a sense of a very gentle guide who speaks as a companion to those beginning a journey. The short sections can be read in one sitting or taken at the reader's own pace as Goldstein discusses key topics such as relationship with parents, understanding pain, boredom, humor, and the role of a teacher. Whether one is a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, Goldstein is sure to have something to offer. Mary Deeley --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. Synopsis Based on more than 20 years' worth of experience leading Buddhist meditation retreats, Goldstein touches on a wide range of topics raised repeatedly by his students--whether beginniners attending their first weekend course or seasoned practitioners on a three-month course.