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Rating: 
Summary: Very Enlightening!
Review: Although, I do not know a lot about Buddhism (historic details as some of the other reviewers do), I can say I found the book an excellent, inviting and uplifting read. It impacted my relationship in a profound way. I think partly because it was not "clinical" nor written in an analytical style. The flow and read of the book was so wonderful, it brought down my defense mechanisms and made me consider what was most important. Each chapter deserves real think time -- and you may wish to read it together as a couple. Maybe a chapter each night before you go to bed.It is a book of great enlightenment. It's what you do with it that counts. Several chapters struck a chord so deep, it moved me into a whole new realm. I can not give this book enough stars. I recommend it to all who are in a relationship and are striving to stay together over the long haul. You can spend a couple of bucks now, or a whole bunch later on therapy, post divorce.
Rating: 
Summary: Very Good Book So Far
Review: I just wanted anyine interested in this book to know that one major complaint (that the Buddah DID marry and subsequently left his wife and son) is addressed on page 4 of the book, which you can read right here on the 9th page of the sample pages. Perhaps the title would have been more accurate if it read "If the Buddah Married After Becomming Enlightened", but that hardly seems to merit the deduction of 2 stars.
Rating:
Summary: Much wisdom in an easy read.
Review: I really enjoyed this book and gave it to friends after I finished reading it the third time. Some of it is just common sense, but it has a very entertaining format and pearls of wisdom from many different philosopies. Not based on any one religion (despite the title) it is a good read for anyone interested in improving their relationship, starting a new one, or healing from the last one.
Rating: 
Summary: Good book, but not much Buddhism
Review: There is lots of good stuff here, but it's not Buddhism. One of the best parts is the section on how to be a good listener. As a man (yes, a generalization is coming up), I sometimes am not the best listener in the world. The author's discussion of listening is very well done, and can help both men and women deal with that sometimes awkward period at the end of the day when someone wants to describe how horrible her co-worker is, etc. Other parts are really quite helpful as well.
That being said, however, and as the previous reviewer has clearly stated, this book is not at all focused on Buddhism or any Buddhist "approach." In fact, most of the little quotes the author offers are from Sufi mystics.
Like it or not, this "If the Buddha" thing (the author's previous book is "If the Buddha Dated") is a marketing gimmick, and nothing more.
What's next? "If the Buddha Ate Meat: Barbecuing with the Buddha"? Or "If the Buddha worked on Wall Street: Getting Rich in the Stock Market"?
Rating:
Summary: Good book, but not much Buddhism
Review: There is lots of good stuff here, but it's not Buddhism. One of the best parts is the section on how to be a good listener. As a man (yes, a generalization is coming up), I sometimes am not the best listener in the world. The author's discussion of listening is very well done, and can help both men and women deal with that sometimes awkward period at the end of the day when someone wants to describe how horrible her co-worker is, etc. Other parts are really quite helpful as well.
That being said, however, and as the previous reviewer has clearly stated, this book is not at all focused on Buddhism or any Buddhist "approach." In fact, most of the little quotes the author offers are from Sufi mystics.
Like it or not, this "If the Buddha" thing (the author's previous book is "If the Buddha Dated") is a marketing gimmick, and nothing more.
What's next? "If the Buddha Ate Meat: Barbecuing with the Buddha"? Or "If the Buddha worked on Wall Street: Getting Rich in the Stock Market"?
Rating:
Summary: Read this together for healing
Review: This doesn't really seem to be about Buddhism, but it is fabulous. My fiance and I read this book to each other almost every day. A few pages at a time, a small chapter: as we turn each page and read each word, this book speaks to us, unfolding the mysteries of being in a relationship. The book speaks often to the couple of getting into the "us place:" my advice is that you begin by reading the book together, and my belief is that, with this book, you will get there.
(To Charlotte: Thanks!)
Rating:
Summary: GOOD ADVICE, BUT...
Review: While the author points out some very important issues in a committed loving relationship (whether one is legally married or living common law, the same principles apply,)the book does not mesh with Buddhism. Buddha himself was married with a child and abandoned them in his quest for Enlightenment. The author does not even mention this very critical factor when she speaks of creating "enduring relationships."
I would read the book for the helpful advice it contains in strengthening committed relationships - the book is worth the price for that alone. However, when it comes to the Spiritual Journey, and as a long-time follower of Buddhist philosophy, I would question just how knowledgeable the author truly is in true Buddhist Philosophy or Buddha himself. For this reason the book lost a couple of stars in the rating.
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