Answer

A simple way to improve your Jain knowledge is to start with easy English introductions, then धीरे-धीरे move to basic scriptures like the Tattvartha Sutra. JainKnowledge’s beginner recommendations repeatedly point to books such as _Jainism: An Introduction_ (Jeffery D. Long), _The Jains_ (Paul Dundas), and _Jainism: A Guide for the Perplexed_ (Sherry Fohr) as good starting points. ( jainknowledge.com)

Simple English books to start with

• _Jainism: An Introduction_ — Jeffery D. Long: clear and beginner-friendly. ( jainknowledge.com)
• _The Jains_ — Paul Dundas: a strong general introduction. ( jainknowledge.com)
• _Jainism: A Guide for the Perplexed_ — Sherry Fohr: simple explanation of core ideas. ( jainknowledge.com)
• _The Book of Compassion: Reverence for All Life_ — Padmanabh S. Jaini: good for understanding ahimsa and compassion. ( jainknowledge.com)
• _That Which Is_ / _Tattvartha Sutra_ — Acharya Umasvati: a foundational Jain text to read after the basics. ( jainknowledge.com)

How to study simply

1. Read one short introduction first.
2. Keep a notebook for key Jain ideas like ahimsa, karma, samyak darshan, and moksha.
3. Then begin the Tattvartha Sutra slowly, a few sutras at a time. JainKnowledge also highlights Namokar Mantra and other short sutras as good beginner practices. ( jainknowledge.com)

Takeaway

If you want a very simple start, begin with _Jainism: An Introduction_, then _The Jains_, and later move to _Tattvartha Sutra_. That gives you a gentle but solid foundation in Jain Dharma. ( jainknowledge.com)

I can also make you a 7-day Jain beginner reading plan in simple English.