How to Practise is essentially a basic primer on the central concepts of Buddhism, and an introduction to how those concepts can be applied to everyday life in a way that is effective and meaningful. In the latter, it is a clear and useful exploration of who to live life in a more meaningful way. However, as regards the former, while it is fairly simple it is not the most user-friendly introduction to the Four Noble Truths, the core concepts of Buddhism. For readers with some previous contact with Buddhist teaching, How to Practise is a very approachable, enjoyable and helpful lesson from the Dalai Lama. For those new to it all, a more 'westernised' introductory read might be a better starting point, as would a biography of the Dalai Lama. Knowing more about who this remarkable human being is adds personality and understanding to reading from his own work.
