I have compiled a list of books that in my estimation will make excellent next steps in your reading the Bhagavad Gita. I have also included suggestions for reading the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and resources for learning about Hinduism in general. My goal is to present books and sources that are easy to read.
Easwaran, Eknath, trans. The Bhagavad Gita. Chapter introductions by Diana Morrison. Tomales, CA: Nilgiri Press, 2009.
This beautiful and easy-to-read version of the Bhagavad Gita has become my go-to text for clear, concise reference. The chapter introductions are informative and helpful for understanding the content.
Hawley, Jack. The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners. Novato, CA: New World Library, 2001.
An easy-to-understand, modern English rendition of the Bhagavad Gita synthesized by the author from thirty versions. The fresh, clear language brings ancient Hindu concepts to life for modern readers.
Mitchell, Stephen, trans. Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. New York: Harmony Books, 2000.
A beautifully poetic and easy-to-read rendition of the Bhagavad Gita. The introduction and clarity of language throughout make this an excellent read for beginners.
Zaehner, R. C., trans. The Bhagavad Gita with a Commentary Based on the Original Sources. London: Oxford University Press, 1973.
This edition includes a transliteration of the Sanskrit showing the complexity and difficulty of creating an English equivalent of the original text. The commentary is thorough and fascinating.
Gandhi, M. K. Gandhi for 21st Century: The Teaching of the Gita. Edited by Anand T. Hingorani. Mumbai: Bhavan’s Book University, 1998.
A collection of writings by Mohandas Gandhi on key teachings from the Bhagavad Gita.
Pattanaik, Devdutt. Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata. New Delhi: Penguin Books, 2010.
A gorgeous, illustrated, retelling of the Mahabharata with carefully placed commentary so as not to interrupt the flow of the story. It is written in a contemporary style that is enjoyable to read straight through or to pick up anywhere in the story.
Sharma, Bulbul. The Ramayana for Children. New Delhi: Puffin Books, 2003.
This illustrated children’s book provides a perfect introduction to the Ramayana for adults who are unfamiliar with the story. It is exciting to read, and K. P. Sudesh’s art throughout brings the drama to life on the pages. You might want to begin with this children’s version before attempting a complete retelling of the Ramayana.
Egenes, Linda, and Kumuda Reddy. The Ramayana: A New Retelling of Valmiki’s Ancient Epic. New York: TarcherPerigee, 2016.
The Ramayana is the other great epic poem of Hinduism. It chronicles the story of Prince Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, in a quest to fulfill his duty to his family, nation, and God. The Ramayana shares many of the same themes as the Mahabharata and is equally respected and loved.
Banker, Ashok K. Prince of Ayodhya: Book One of the Ramayana. New York: Warner Books, 2003.
A dramatization of the story of the Ramayana by one of India’s celebrated storytellers, Ashok Banker. This very successful series has been translated into seven languages. It is an exciting and compelling read.
Johnsen, Linda. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Hinduism. Indianapolis: Alpha Books/New York: Penguin Random House, 2009.
Don’t let the title fool you: this is an excellent resource and my go-to reference for understanding the big picture of Hinduism. The lighthearted and contemporary writing makes reading about and understanding Hinduism genuinely pleasurable. Linda Johnsen’s accessible writing has helped me sort out complicated cultural and spiritual connections more so than almost any other resource.
Cross, Stephen. The Elements of Hinduism. Shaftesbury, Dorset: Element Books, 1994.
An easy-to-read summary of the four essential aspects of Hinduism, its sacred texts, and spiritual cosmology.