This is a philosophical treatment of Buddhism looking at the writings of the Buddha and early Buddhists. As this is a philosophical treatment, the emphasis is on definitions and argument structures. Terms are also used technically and precisely. If you’ve not read philosophy before, this could seem rather daunting. Personally, I would prefer to engage with this material in a printed book so that I can underline/highlight key definitions and refer back to them as I’m not so good at remembering them.

The audiobook is read very clearly and at a pace which makes it possible to follow the arguments being presented.

I received an advance review copy of the audiobook for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

A well researched and well written book. The audio version is a delight to listen to. I would recommend it wholeheartedly.

This was a good listen, an approachable and informative audiobook. Calm and measured, approachable and comforting.
I felt this was a very good intro for me.
Insightful and understandable and left me in a good place.
Recommended.

4,5 stars.
This is as detailed, informative, philosophical and deep as a book about Buddha’s teachings can get.
The research is well done, with resources also provided in the book, and structure is generally good.
As for my personal cup of tea, I should have gone for the book itself. Listening to this was meditative and informative, yet I picked it up to refresh and deepen my memory and knowledge, and I need to get the print book to refer back to the chapters I found interesting.

A fascinating and well explained insight into the philosophy behind Buddha’s teachings. I think if I reread it I would perhaps listen in smaller chunks and consider each more before moving on. The narration was very clear and easy to listen to. Thank you to Net Galley for an audio arc in exchange for an honest review.

Concise, clear and informative. I enjoyed listening to it.
Thanks to NetGalley, the editor and the author for the opportunity to access this advanced copy.

**Listened to the audiobook**

The premise of the book was really up my street! However, the book was incredibly overwhelming.
At the start of the book, Siderits states that this book is a good entry level - and for those wanting more in depth info there is another book by him - the origin book.
A lot of this book just went over my head, and I struggled to get along with it.
Too dense. Too formal. Too much - and I wouldn't even consider myself a beginner to this topic.

This was a very clearly set out explanation of Buddhism. I really enjoyed thinking about philosophy and ideals, The writer help the reader get to grips with Buddhism being a philosophy standing alone from other religious beliefs.