Buddhism, with its stress on non-violence, the "middle path" and its promise of nirvana, finds many followers. But in today's world, it has become simply a fad for some, something to follow because their favourite celebrity propagates it. Simply wearing robes or carrying prayer beads does not make one a Buddhist; it has to be ingrained within, and should become a part of one's daily life. The Best Way to Catch a Snake, a three-part volume, is a guide to Buddhist teachings, for all those who want to start their journey towards a better life, but don't know where to begin. It goes beyond the exotic rituals and practices that Buddhism is today seen as. It elucidates the Four Seals, the Four Noble Truths and the Four Thoughts of Buddhism in simple, jargon-free language. The author, a Buddhist monk himself, combines examples from his own experience with simple exercises to skillfully guide us through Gautama Buddha's teachings. A valuable source of Buddhist knowledge, this book is a must for anyone drawn to the teachings of Gautama Buddha.

The Best Way to Catch a Snake, Karma Yeshe Rabgye, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, Paperback, 298 pp, $11.95

Karma Yeshe Rabgye spent several years in a monastery in the foothills of the Himalayas teaching young monks basic Buddhist philosophy and meditation. He now offers teachings freely to all in a manner that is unpretentious and clear. He does not demand students to blindly accept what he says, but instead invites them to examine their own minds and experience to discover the validity of Gautama Buddha's teaching. Using everyday examples he has the ability to bring the teachings alive, particularly to a younger audience seeking to make Buddhism relevant in their lives. His approachable manner has attracted many students who appreciate his sense of humour and practical advice. Karma Yeshe Rabgye quietly demonstrates Gautama Buddha's teaching on compassion through the charitable trust 'Sangye Menla' that he founded in 2008 in Chandigarh, Northern India. The trust provides medical assistance and care to people from the Himalayan region