A man comfortable in the cultures of both the east and the west, D.T. Suzuki has made a unique contribution by explaining Zen in a way that a western trained mind can grasp. Suzuki died in his 90's, and this book contains an initial essay on Zen written by him during his life time. The remainder of the book consists of a series of essays by notable Zen scholars about Suzuki, as well as the practice of Zen. This is an excellent place for the beginning student of Zen to approach this mysterious yet simple view of life.

A particularly interesting essay is by the late Trappist priest Thomas Merton. Merton, who had corresponded with Suzuki reconciles the practice of Zen with the practice of mysticism in the Roman Catholic Church.

This is a tremendous book about a wonderful and simple man who possessed a powerful intellect and a gift of understanding.