I’ve been back and forth with Buddhism for a few years now. Not that I didn’t find it extremely appealing, but that I didn’t exactly know where to start. I have since read a few books on the subject (of which I found On The Path to Enlightment by Matthieu Ricard and Buddha’s Brain by Rick Hansen particularly informative) and can now say that I am committing myself entirely to the study of Buddhism as my religion.
I haven’t “had a religion” for about a decade now, ever since I sat in religion class at a Catholic Church and thought how unrealistic it all seemed. I stumbled on Buddhism back when I was studying for AP Japanese and researching a bit into the Japanese lifestyle. It instantly struck me as the way to be the person I wanted to be. I do wish there was a Buddhist center near me where I can go and speak with other practitioners. I identify most with Mahayana Buddhism.
My biggest trial at the moment is implementing the Dharma into my lifestyle. I’ll be documenting my path here, probably on a weekly basis, and hope my experiences will connect me with other practitioners or individuals considering Buddhism.
Practicing Buddhists out there, what books do you recommend on extending studies into a more advanced level?
Anna Herlihy 
I have been reading ” the places that scare you” by Pema Chodron. It not necessarily advanced but its a good book. Thanks for sharing:)
Im a Buddhist from Srilanka. I don’t know any English books on Buddhism. I recommend you to look for Dhammapadaya” , a book used by all Buddhists and it is the simplest book out of all the books on Dharma