About the Author

Sandy Boucher is a writer, editor, and longtime Buddhist practitioner. Her book Turning the Wheel- American Women Creating the New Buddhism is also published by Beacon Press. She lives in Oakland, California.

Reviews

Here is a trustworthy traveling companion for the countless Western women who desire, and deserve, to venture on the Dharma path.--Joanna Macy, author of World as Lover, World as Self

"I found Opening the Lotus illuminating in its clarity, depth, and patient guidance and could see it appreciated in numerous settings, from meditation centers to college classrooms." --Ellyn Kaschak, professor of psychology, San Jose State University, author of Engendered Lives

"An energetic and useful recasting of Buddhism's beliefs for contemporary women."
-Publishers Weekly

"Opening the Lotus is a triumph of clarity and feminine wisdom."--Frederic A. Brussat, Body Mind Spirit

Here is a trustworthy traveling companion for the countless Western women who desire, and deserve, to venture on the Dharma path.--Joanna Macy, author of World as Lover, World as Self

"I found Opening the Lotus illuminating in its clarity, depth, and patient guidance and could see it appreciated in numerous settings, from meditation centers to college classrooms." --Ellyn Kaschak, professor of psychology, San Jose State University, author of Engendered Lives

"An energetic and useful recasting of Buddhism's beliefs for contemporary women."
-Publishers Weekly

"Opening the Lotus is a triumph of clarity and feminine wisdom."--Frederic A. Brussat, Body Mind Spirit

While the juxtaposition of feminism and Buddhism might seem peculiar, this book is delightfully free of cant. The author offers examples of her experiences as a lesbian spiritual seeker who at the age of 60 has arrived at a good balance of goals. Since nearly all religions suffer from patriarchal bias, Boucher's search has not been easy, and any reader can relate to it. Because of her maturity and sincerity, the usual feminist outrage has faded into Buddhist calm detachment and Boucher's determined focus on her practice. Boucher offers mediation techniques, with attention to such goddesses as Kwan Yin and Tara to coincide with timeless Buddhist principles. There is a helpful annotated and international directory of women's Buddhist centers and teachers, as well as a brief bibliography. Recommended for all libraries.‘Jeanne S. Bagby, formerly Tucson P.L., Ariz.