While many of the quotations are insightful and memorable, there seems to be no rhyme nor reason to the book's organization. As a result, I could myself inspired on one page but confused on the next.
I'm not sure what Publisher's Weekly problem is in calling Schmidt's book "...virtually indistinguishable from its peers". I suppose if I reviewed books for a living, the fact that EVERYTHING is derivative at some level would become an apparent reality.
However, judged on it's own merits, 365 is a nice contribution to the world of Buddhism. Speaking for those of us who are just average folks, not Buddhist scholars, Schmidt's careful selections are an accessible stimulant of thought.
Don't let the "365" concept scare you: it does not appear Schmidt has dumbed down the book to fit the "thought a day" calendar paradigm. The selections are thought-provoking, neither overly simplified, nor so obtuse only an academic could love them.
One of the best parts of the book is the extensive clearly written glossary. It provides a great reference, which is most helpful for us mere mortals in interpreting some of the knottier quotes.
365 would be a very nice addition to any library, from serious Buddhists to casually curious people who just like to think.
