Today, Buddhism is the world's fourth-largest religion, with over 576 million followers worldwide. Buddhists follow traditions and spiritual beliefs that were taught by Guatama Buddha, a revered wise man. Guatama Buddha lived in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent more than 2,400 years ago. Although born into a royal family, he became concerned with the problem of suffering in the world and spent years studying a variety of religions and philosophies....

Jaya's Golden Necklace is the first children's book to tell of the origin and cultural roots of the beloved Buddha image. A story of East and West, it teaches lessons and entertains while also opening a door into Asian culture. Set along the Silk Road, Jaya's journey highlights the interconnected and multicultural worlds of yesterday and today.