Reimagining Buddhism is an in-depth exploration of Sangharakshita, a significant figure in modern Buddhism who played a crucial role in bringing Buddhism to the West and reviving it in India. The book examines Sangharakshita's complex legacy, including the controversy surrounding his sexual activities and how it affected his reputation within the Triratna Buddhist Community. It provides a comprehensive account of his understanding of Buddhism, tracing the influences that shaped his teachings, life as a scholar-monk, and his development of a global Buddhist movement. Sangharakshita's approach, which drew from the entire Buddhist tradition rather than adhering to a single school, is both celebrated and criticized for its innovation. The book, written with sensitivity and scholarly insight, serves as an introduction for newcomers and a detailed analysis for those familiar with Sangharakshita's work.

Reimagining Buddhism: Understanding Sangharakshita and his Teachings, Vishvapani Blomfield, Windhorse Publications, Paperback, 280 pages, $22.95

Vishvapani Blomfield is the author of Gautama Buddha: The Life and Teachings of the Awakened One (Quercus, 2011) and the editor of Challenging Times: Stories of Buddhist Practice When Things Get Tough (Windhorse Publications, 2006). Since 2006 he has been the Buddhist contributor to BBC Radio 4's 'Thought for the Day'. He lives in Cardiff with his wife and son and his work over the years has included mindfulness teaching, writing, broadcasting, leading pilgrimages to the Buddhist holy places and holding central positions within the Triratna Buddhist Community. He became a Buddhist as a teenager and was ordained into the Triratna Buddhist Order in 1992.