Description: Tibet's exiled spiritual and secular leader describes his childhood, the Chinese invasion of Tibet, and how exiled Tibetans have rebuilt their lives, and explains Tibetan Buddhism along with his philosophy of peace.
Brief description:
One of the best-known global figures, His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and a powerful symbol of Tibet and its unique civilization. He is an important voice for compassion, and in recognition of his advocacy for world peace and environmental concerns, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. He has received numerous other international awards, including the highest civilian honor in the United States, the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal. Since being called upon to assume the leadership of Tibet, he has worked tirelessly for the freedom and dignity of his people. After fleeing into exile in 1959, the Dalai Lama has lived as a stateless Tibetan in India, a country he calls his second home.
Review Quotes: "A simple and powerful autobiography. The Dalai Lama's story of exile must serve, of course, as a vital historical witness, not only to inhumanity but to compassion as well, not only to betrayal and treachery but to generosity and faithfulness." -- "Los Angeles Times Book Review""Compelling...fascinating....eye-opening." -- "Washington Post Book World""The prose is clear and engaging, full of subtle implication and humor. His observations of Western culture are poignant."-- "San Francisco Chronicle""Forthright...often amusing...he has retained much of the freshness of the child's view of what was happening to him, and his account is moving." -- "New York Times Book Review""An earnest, inspiring, and wholly captivating classic tale of spiritual adventure. With candor, great charm, and good humor, the winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize tells his life story." --" Kirkus Reviews""His autobiography was waited for, and is worth waiting for."-- "Chicago Sun-Times""Throughout his story, told with great humility, the Dalai Lama reveals his obligation both to address the time-honored spiritual needs of his people and to help them deal with the practical considerations of their disrupted lives. Anyone wanting to understand Tibet today will do well to read this priest-king's tale of coping with the ancient and modern worlds that have shaped him." -- "Chicago Tribune"