"Anger is a dangerous and powerful poison of the mind," writes Ven. Alubomulle Sumanasara, a Buddhist monk schooled in the Theravada tradition. He has written more than 100 books addressing the practical application of Buddhist thought and practice. He spreads the Dharma and teaches meditation in Japan.

Anger is not something that vanishes if you try to suppress it, nor can you just grin and bear it. According to Sumanasara, this volatile emotion disappears when it is watched. He advises:

"The moment anger arises, one should immediately look at it and observe it: 'This is anger. This is how anger feels.' Study the anger and learn from it. Say to yourself, 'Right now, I am experiencing a negative feeling. This is how anger feels. Right now I must be angry. ' Turn the eye that usually watches the outside world and use it to look within yourself."

This practical paperback is divided into four sections: Understanding Anger, Anger Destroys Happiness, Those Who Don't Get Angry, and The Solution to Anger. When we let go of anger, feelings of self-importance, competitiveness, and self-loathing melt away. Wisdom and laughter are antidotes to stave off anger's rages and depressing ways.