The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching introduces the most essential Buddhist ideas in a way even secular people can easily digest. These ideas include The Four Noble Truths and The Noble Eightfold Path. Thich Nhat Hanh explains how Buddhism is in its essence a pragmatic approach to ending personal suffering.
"Mindfulness is the energy that allows us to recognize our habit energy and prevent it from dominating us." —Thich Nhat Hanh
The Power of Now is about living in the present moment so you suffer less and have more inner peace. It's really about reconnecting to your physical senses rather than being lost in thinking. Eckhart Tolle says past and future are only mental simulations because your life always happens Now.
"Realize deeply that the present moment is all you every have. Make the Now the primary focus of your life." —Eckhart Tolle
The Way of Zen is a comprehensive introduction to Zen Buddhism, including the history and practices. Alan Watts explains how the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism combined with Indian Buddhism to form Zen. He also shares many practices of Zen such as meditation, koans, and arts.
"..." —Alan Watts
The Power of Myth explores how stories shape our perception of the world, and why myths continue to be relevant in providing direction to our lives in modern times. Joseph Campbell explains universal lessons from myths, like discovering our personal "Hero's Journey" and following our bliss.
"Follow your bliss, and the universe will open doors where there were only walls." —Joseph Campbell