Trying to sum up this book, the author's own words come to mind: a "street smarts" of sorts for Eastern philosophy. It is a unique and refreshing look at the same not-so-obvious-to-some drudgery.It covers basic tenets that will change your life if you live by them. Sluyter avoided meditation details which indeed enhances the applicability of this book to most people's lives. I found the practical advice, in Dean's own original language, very valuable.The general pace of the book is good as well, keeping the reader interested at some level. If you are set in your ways or have a negative outlook, you probably won't find much here. If you have already based opinions on Eastern religions, I'd still bet this book expands your Zen conversation skills.