This is an excellent book, especially for those of us who want to read more Hindu religious books but are unsure which to try, and which ones are about what. It is written by a university religion professor and is written for a non-Hindu audience, but it is very clearly written and provides, in addition to a treatment of all the major texts, a guide to how to read religious texts on your own. As a Hindu raised in the U.S. I have often wanted to read more about my religion but have felt unsure as to how to begin. This book has answered all my questions in this regard. I would highly reccomend picking this one up!

A thoroughly readable and inspiring book, beautifully informed by the author's obvious expertise in (and intuitive grasp of) the Hindu scriptures. I've been looking for this one for years. Thank you, Barbara Powell!