This book was written years ago by Alan Watts, a spiritual student, teacher, and enthusiast who became popular with many in the 1960s.
The Way of Zen discusses the origins, evolution, and practices of Zen. From its Buddhist beginnings in India born of Hindu spiritual influence, to the adoption of Buddhism in ancient China, the blending of Taoism and Confucianism, the ancient Chinese masters, the adoption of Zen Buddhism by the Japanese, and finally the strict practice it has become known for in Japan. He explains Zen's influence on art, work, meditation, and daily life.
All along the way Watts explains the principles of Zen along with the oft times confusing anecdotes that Zen is known for. It is both a historical and educational introduction to Zen, though it dedicates little time to the origins of Buddhism, rather leaves it up to the reader to seek this information and picks up from there.
Having previously read up on Watts, I came across biographies that discussed his aversion to Zazen, the strict form of meditation developed in Japan. Listening to his words, it was clear, he followed his own rules while meditating to find peace (how Zen of him).
