The Story of the Buddha

For readers of mythology, an original and introspective journey through the life of the Buddha accompanied by 26 beautiful color illustrations and 8 meditations.

From longtime Zen teacher and poet John Tarrant, this is an original retelling of the foundational myth of Buddhism—the life of the Buddha. Told and retold for centuries, this story holds a special place in the human legacy because it is, ultimately, an investigation of the nature of mind and consciousness. Literary-minded readers and fans of myths and folklore will be especially drawn to the Buddha’s encounters with kings, gods, heroes, monsters, and wise teachers in his spiritual quest.

In this captivating narrative, the author leans into his memories of the Egyptian and Greek myths he encountered as a child. “If we pour ourselves into the story of the Buddha,” he writes, “we enter the journey from an unusual place as far as myths go; we begin where the Odyssey ends.” The Buddha already had everything—a palace, family, food, wealth—yet he was suffocating with discontent. He needed to embark on a journey involving pain, searching, magic, and personal discovery. This led to his awakening and the teachings that form the basis of Buddhism.

John Tarrant frames the story with an intimate, inquisitive introduction and postscript that reflect his decades of studying koans and will resonate with a broad readership. The story of the Buddha is personal—it becomes your own story, opening an unexpected path to awakening. If you listen to the images that arise in its telling, you can find where you are in life and where you are headed.

The Buddha’s story becomes more personal with the concluding section of reflections and eight meditations about his life drawn from the Zen tradition. The book’s gorgeous full-color historical illustrations of characters and events in the Buddha’s life enrich the narrative journey. This lovely little book is a meaningful gift or addition to your own bedside or coffee table.