This short book is a series of lectures on the fundamentals of Theravadin Buddhism. It is thoughtful, orderly, and comprehensive. Buddhadasa has a very positive attitude about the spiritual capabilities of his readers, and strongly emphasizes the basics of Buddhist practice. He comes across as warm-hearted and very serious. This book is an excellent introduction to a down-to-earth, non-romanticized approach to Buddhism, but perhaps its unrelenting seriousness might make it a little daunting to beginners. It can be taken a little at a time. My only complaint is that I would have liked him to devote more commentary to Buddhist ethics. ( )