“This is a cute book—but it’s not just cute; it’s also deep and profound and is one of the best guides to Zen practice I have ever come across. The illustrations are delightful and the written sections are clear and easy to understand. I give it a million zillion stars!”

– Brad Warner, author of Hardcore Zen

“I loved this book and smiled the whole way through. But don’t be fooled by its whimsy! There’s a wealth of experience, knowledge, and devotion behind these illustrations. This book is a perfect guide for a beginning Zen student and makes a delicious snack for the more advanced practitioner.”

– Gesshin Greenwood, author of Bow First, Ask Questions Later

“Touching on traditional monastic practice, as well as how home practice is evolving here in the West, if you want a sense of the feel of traditional Soto practice, there may be no better book. Sweet. Charming. Relentless. Sensei Amato opens his heart and shares something wonderful. I highly recommend this book.”

– James Ford, author of Introduction to Zen Koans

“Seigaku Amato explains such characteristics in understandable way with lively illustrations. This book is a friendly, unique guide for those who are interested in Soto Zen and wish to understand its history, teaching and day-to-day practice.”

– Shohaku Okumura, author of Realizing Genjokoan and Living by Vow

“Such a sweet, smiling, moving introduction to the basic ways and ancient rituals of Soto Zen traditions and practices, honoring the old and orthodox ways yet open to modern ways too. The beauty and joy of this book is found in the very personal, poignant or funny ink drawings by the author accompanying the simple text. The book also presents one of the best descriptions of Zazen I have come across, hitting all the right notes. Most Western practitioners will learn some surprising things about Soto practice too.”

– Jundo Cohen, author of The Zen Master’s Dance