DINNER WITH BUDDHA

Narrator Sean Runnette moves from the "very American" New York book editor Otto Ringling to his polar opposite brother-in-law, Russian Buddhist monk Volya Rinpoche. Each man sounds unique, charming, and believable, with Rinpoche's misunderstanding of American words and Ringling's patient explanations adding both realism and humor. The pair hit the road again in this third novel told from Ringling's perspective. Rinpoche learns about America, its diverse inhabitants, the unique countryside--which often functions as a character--and progressive politics. Most moving is Ringling's education about Buddhism, particularly his descriptions of learning how to meditate. Listeners will enjoy an appealing journey that seamlessly blends wit, sorrow, philosophy, food, and even travel suggestions. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2015]