Born into a family legacy of Buddhist spirituality in Việt Nam, Trần immigrated to the US at age ten. Budding Lotus in the West follows her journey and unveils the complexities of how Buddhist teachings are used in America. With raw authenticity, Trần shares personal anecdotes, weaving together the mosaic of her own experiences with Buddhism, and provides readers with a fundamental understanding of key Buddhist concepts and traditions. Trần examines the interplay between ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges, inviting spiritual seekers and curious minds to engage critically with Buddhism in a way that resonates with contemporary life.

For example, what would the Buddha say about abortion, gun, and LGBTQIA+ rights? Or about prejudice, discrimination, and gender equality? How can practitioners more skillfully navigate romance in the sangha community? Whether you are a longtime Buddhist practitioner or just beginning to explore the religion, Budding Lotus in the West offers a critical examination, providing wisdom, inspiration, and a path toward a more balanced and inclusive understanding of Buddhism in the modern world.