ESCAPE FROM THE LAND OF SNOWS - STEPHAN TALTY

ESCAPE FROM THE LAND OF SNOWS - STEPHAN TALTY

RATING: C+

A detailed and informative account of HHDL's youth and trip into exile. This book covers the entire story. A map is included, along with a list of key people that are involved in the saga. Some of the text appears to contradict alternative sources fact wise, however.

I would recommend this book to those interested in the 20th Century Tibetan troubles, those wanting to learn more concerning HHDL, and those interested in the present situation needing to learn more on the origin of current matters.

TRESPASSERS ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLD - PETER HOPKIRK

TRESPASSERS ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLD - PETER HOPKIRK

RATING:C-

Another book that although more interesting than the last I will not be likely to re-read. Skimming across multiple advances of various foreigners invading Tibet, it focused more on Lhasa than Tibet overall. It is written for a Western reader and I do not share many of the attitudes expected. However, it did seem to cover all the known curious explorers and invaders over the past couple of centuries.

I would recommend the book to those interested in Tibetan history, exploration and invasion, and historical Tibetan travel.

A MOUNTAIN IN TIBET - CHARLES ALLEN

A MOUNTAIN IN TIBET - CHARLES ALLEN

RATING: D -

I was not impressed with this book. I imagined it to contain far more geographical traveling detail and far less historical 'dates and names'. I have little inclination toward the history of British invasions. The book covers British and other European invasions into Tibet in the guise of exploration.

The book would appeal to those interested in a relation between European history and Tibet, and to those interested in exploration by Europeans.

MY YOUTH IN TIBET - TSEYANG SADUTSHANG

MY YOUTH IN TIBET - TSEYANG SADUTSHANG

RATING:B

A short but interesting account of the life of a Tibetan lady coupled with an informative narrative concerning Reting Rinpoche. At less than 75 pages in length, it is a quick read and contains several photographs.

I would recommend the book to those interested in Reting Rinpoche, Tibetan biographies, and Tibetan culture.

LEARNING TO WALK - SANGHARAKSHITA

LEARNING TO WALK - SANGHARAKSHITA

RATING: B-

This book is an easy-read semi-biography that precedes a separate main autobiography. It tells the tale of a 20th century man growing up in a Christian world and discovering both life and Buddhism. Many of the places mentioned in Devonshire and Sussex I myself have an acquaintance with, as do I the situation of growing up in England and a Christian family.

I would recommend the book to English/European people who lean towards Buddhism yet are surrounded by another faith, those interested in Western Buddhists, and those who enjoy biographies.

THE TIBETAN ART OF PARENTING - ANNE MAIDEN BROWN, EDIE FARWELL & DICKEY NYERONGSHA

THE TIBETAN ART OF PARENTING - ANNE MAIDEN BROWN, EDIE FARWELL & DICKEY NYERONGSHA

RATING: B

An interesting account that covers the entire growth of a baby from its preconception to youth, seen in relation to Tibetan culture. Once again, I find that I can relate to this culture better than my own. Many practices mentioned are worth considering whatever your culture, as this book gives plenty of possible ideas to prospective parents and those already with children.

I would recommend the book to prospective parents, those with young children, and those interested in the Tibetan culture.

BORN IN LHASA - NAMGYAL LHAMO TAKLHA

RATING:B

This is the latest read from my collection of biographies & autobiographies of Tibetans. In this case, it is the autobiography of HHDL's sister in law. I enjoy relaxing into a book detailing Tibetan lifestyle and customs, as I can relate to their culture better than my own birth culture. This account includes several photographs.

I would recommend reading this book to those interested in the Tibetan culture of the 20th century, entertained by autobiographies, and wishing to hear another viewpoint of the troubles caused to the Tibetan people by the Chinese occupation and destruction of their land.