A number of people have written excellent reviews of this book so I'm just here to say that they're all right! This book is a must read if you're the least bit interested in Chinese-Tibeten relationship of the past, present and future...

This is a wonderful book to introduce some of the basic issues and history that lead to the current state of Tibet, its government, its people and its religion. Hilton walks you through some historical passages so that by the time she is delving into the search for the 11th Panchen, you have a good sense of the urgency of the situation and why both the Tibet government in exile and China were desparately trying to control the outcome. The fact that Hilton was privy to some top secret information and met with a variety of other key figures allows her to provide more emotion and intimacy to the story than perhaps otherwise. While we all now know the terrible outcome of the search, reading the details and chronology are still suspenseful and gripping. I felt so hollow at the end, knowing that little has changed in Tibet and wondering if it ever will. Where is the true Panchen (I can't believe China has not been forced to free him) and what is the fate of Tibet and Tibetan Buddhism after the passing of the 14th Dalai Lama??? Reading about China's cruelty made me wonder if Tibet can survive even the next thirty years but yet, there is hope when thinking of the courage Tibetans have demonstrated thus far.

Find out what U.S. based traitors er traders are supporting in this book. Especially the entertainment & media industries. Disney, MGM, besides Amazon.com. While building lucrative careers for entrepreneurs who relocate to the U.S.A. Like John Woo, Chow Yun Fat, and Jackie Chan.

Phil Borges presents, through the medium of photography, a project that brings attention to the situation in Tibet. Both stylish and yet sensitive, Borges uses an extensive cross section of subjects to accomplish this. He brings to the project, like I mentioned above, an extensive cross section not just of subjects but locations as well that exemplify the phenomenal complexity and diversity in that country. An example is the portrait of Yama, which caught my eye, who could be any child in any place in the world. I might be waxing "noble savage" here but does she not deserve a childhood just like any child in the globe? With text from such notables as Nobel Peace Laureates like Elie Wiesel and His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso - the book is a sure hit and a must for every home. Not to be outdone are other contributors who themselves are "heavy hitters" in the discourse of Tibet and Tibetan issues - Robert F. Thurman and the late Galen Rowell. Phil Borges presents us with nothing less than a tour de force of visual stimulation coupled with profound text and a stylish presentation. A keeper that will stand the test of time.

Miguel Llora

Each of these faces is pure incarnation of a human feeling...from joy to worriness, from amazement to pride.Some of these people will haunt you for long after you turn the last page (See little 4 year old Pemba's eyes...) Sent the book to friends overseas...just the kind of work you want to share with your closest ones.

Phil Borges amazing photography, accompanied by words from the Dalai Lama make this book not only beautiful to look at, but inspiring as well.

This book is a selection of excerpts from The Perfection of Wisdom in 8,000 Verses (or Astasahasrika Prajna Paramita in Sanskrit), the first in a series of Mahayana Buddhism's sacred texts on The Perfection of Wisdom (or Prajna Paramita). The Perfection of Wisdom texts, which include the much shorter Diamond Sutra (Vajracchedika Prajna Paramita Sutra) and Heart Sutra (Prajna Paramita Hridaya Sutra), essentially expand and go beyond the Buddhist concept of "no-self" to the more profound idea that all of existence is itself fundamentally empty.

Basically, the concept of "no-self" states that no one has an absolute or fixed "self" because the five aggregates that collectively make up an individual is ever changing i.e. a person changes from moment to moment and is never the same "self" yesterday, today or tomorrow. Since the "self" is an illusion, the clinging of the "self" to pleasant things (belongings, fame, pleasure, etc.) can be ended. Likewise, the tendency of the "self" to avoid unpleasant things (criticism, pain, discomfort, etc.) can also be ended. Complete equanimity can be achieved, leading to the cessation of desire and to the achievement of Nirvana (release from existence i.e. Samsara, the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth).

The Perfection of Wisdom texts go further and propose that all of existence is itself empty i.e. everything we experience here in this world, in this universe, is nothing but an illusion - everything is essentially void. Since existence is itself void, Nirvana is therefore no different from Samsara. As the Heart Sutra explains, "There is no suffering, origin, cessation or path; no exalted wisdom, no attainment and also no non-attainment. Therefore, because there is no attainment, all bodhisattvas rely on and abide in the perfection of wisdom; their minds have no obstructions and no fear." The obsession with attaining Nirvana can itself obstruct our view of the truth that Nirvana is here with us because such obsession is itself a form of clinging. Thus, only those who can see the true nature of all existence can be free from fear.

Richly illustrated with pictures of the historical Buddha as well as various Bodhisattvas from ancient texts, this book is a worthy addition to any library.

Deep among the treasures of Cambridge University Library, England are to be found two Sanskrit palm-leaf manuscripts which illustrate, through text and pictures, the life and philosophy of Gautama the Buddha in especially moving and powerful form. Both are about a thousand years old, and one is thought to be the oldest dated Indian illustrated manuscript extant anywhere in the world (997 CE); both share the title 'Astasahasrikaprajnaparamita', or 'The Perfection of Wisdom in 8000 Lines'. They were probably produced during the reign of Mahipala I (992-1042 CE) over a territory approximately including parts of present-day northern India and Nepal.

Craig Jamieson's new volume is not a complete English translation of 'The Perfection of Wisdom' (that has already been done by other hands), but an attempt to bring this remarkable material to a wider audience through a judicious selection of text - newly translated - and pictures. As such, it succeeds admirably.

The volume begins with a foreword by no less an authority than H.H. the Dalai Lama, who tells us that 'in ancient India and later in Tibet, it was considered an act of virtue to honour the practice of "The Perfection of Wisdom" by creating or sponsoring the creation of elaborate and illustrated editions'. Craig Jamieson contributes a brief but informative introduction; the illustrations are explained in detail at the end, and a glossary and bibliography are provided. All the necessary apparatus is there for the reader to approach the tenets of Buddhism through the vehicle of the mind; meantime, the body of the book sets brief text extracts against full-colour pictures in such a way that those who choose may simply feel their way towards enlightenment instead.

It would be presumptuous for the non-initiate to attempt a commentary on the ideas, intuitions and paradoxes that leap to the eyes from the perusal of these pages. I shall therefore let a few of those thoughts speak for themselves:

'The perfection of wisdom is neither form nor other than form.'

'Where there is no consciousness, no names, no words, no designations, that is called the perfection of wisdom.'

'A mass of words, a mass of sentences, a mass of syllables, Ananda, that is bound by a limit, but this perfection of wisdom is bound by no limit.'

The illustrations are all taken from the two manuscripts; indeed, in the case of the older manuscript every illustration is reproduced. The technical quality of the reproductions is excellent. Red and gold tints gleam richly in the artists' hieratic visions of Bodhisattvas and Taras (male and female characters seeking enlightenment), lions, elephants or lotuses. Text and illustrations complement each other admirably.

The millennium-old Buddhist world of these manuscripts might seem alien or impenetrable to many English-speaking readers today; the days of instant enlightenment for Westerners, of what the writer Gita Mehta calls 'karma cola', have receded into the past. However, anyone with a serious interest in understanding the philosophies of the Indian subcontinent, whether on the path to enlightenment or for purposes of mere knowledge, should derive pleasure and profit from owning this beautifully-produced and eminently readable volume.

Christopher Rollason, M.A., Ph.D.

Now I know that I should write a review illustrating how good this book is, and how practical its advice is, and how lucid the prose is, (all of which is true), but the thing that made me buy this book was 10 little words:

"Introduction by His Holiness the Dalai Lama" and "Printed in China."

Yep. *That* China.

I don't know how long this edition of the book will be in print, but it's definitely unique.

Having bought the book I would agree that of all the Mahayana texts I've read, this is quite accessible, with beautiful illustrations, and should be read by anyone who wants to seriously study Buddhism. Of course, the tale told is mythical/metaphorical, but the logic and wisdom is profound.

One minor quibble: I'd have appreciated a bit more of a scholarly preface and historical background.

The author tells us what we need to know as parents and how to guide the educational system. THIS SHOULD BE REQUIRED READING FOR EDUCATORS!!!!!

I am an ADHD female and I found this book very helpfull.I can now pay attention better and curve my impusivity.The strategies were very helpfull and I am now an A student without medicine.I am also not ashamed of having ADHD anymore.

Ms. Alexander-Roberts' second book on the topic carries on where her first book, "The ADHD Parenting Handbook", leaves off. She has written an excellent, well-researched book that provides in-depth information on living with the teenager with ADHD. She covers the most important concerns well. These include: parenting strategies that work; the use of medication; and the positive aspects of having ADHD. She also discusses helping your teen say "no" to drugs; other co-existing disorders that may be present, but often go undiagnosed and untreated; and many other topics important to parents of ADHD teens. Highly recommended

Richard has access to places most people do not. Take, for example, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His Holiness is not accessable to you and I on the level that Richard has. Richard shares private photos, such as plate 63 where His Holiness is in meditation. The photo alone portrays a depth of intensity that the experience offers. Richard also has a true sense of the tragedy of the Tibetan people and can deliver that in a light that few people can ever grasp, even after several trips to the region. Richard is the Pilgrim and we are fortunate to be able to see things in a way he does. Very few photographers can say that of their work. Perhaps it is due to his experience in film, perhaps as a result of his practice as a buddhist, maybe just because the openness of his sharing is felt in his work, regardless of the medium. Thank you my friend for sharing your life with us and a wonderful book.

This is a fantastic book! The photographs stir a number of emotions in you. Only a true artist like Mr. Gere could convey these feelings and capture them in his shutter. The book also features excellent text and was a very nice present. I think everyone should peek at this book. A great book for religious souls and open minds.

This book was exactly what I expected from such a sensitive and intelligent man. Thank you, Mr. Gere. We need our hearts broken now and then.

This is simply a beautiful book. Early this morning, I gave
it one star and was a bit mean. It didn't get through the submission process. I said words to the effect that the Dali Lama was dictatorial about religious freedom. And that he suppressed religious freedom in 1977 in regards to the Dorje Shugden controversy. I talked to a NKT Buddhist nun this afternoon. And she told me that if you are devoted to the Dali Lama as your teacher, then your practice is pure and you are practicing the dharma fully. This is such a wonderful book. With essays written by different authors. And the pictures are almost breath-taking. The layout of the pages is stunning.
And it just fabulous to read. I know that you will enjoy it. It
is a real gem. And perhaps we should leave politics behind.

A Simple Monk presents Robert Thurman's gathering of writings on the Dalai Lama, presenting such writings and reflections in a new visual biography which adds full-color images by photojournalist Alison Wright. The result is much more than your usual collection of quotes: a fine, rich gift edition.

The "a reader from Yellow River" inspired me to order this book and the corresponding video, as a message of compassion and peace, which is what we - and most of all me - needs in our world, at all times and right now.

It's a message that in particular, we as Amercians, after the "events of September 11" - now and in the present - need to hear, listen and LEARN. This review was so thoughtful, comprehensive and detailed that I can't wait to get the book and read it "through and through." The "reader from Yellow River" made the money sound more than worth it, and I'm sure it will be!

"What price peace?"

What price is peace worth? "It's worth it's weight in gold."

The question is, "how do we achieve this?"

I hope the answer (or part of "the answer") can be found in this book. Will let you know what I learn.

Tenzin Gyatso provides a clear and compassionate introduction to the Mahayana school of Buddhism. The book is practical, yet contains sufficient information about the basic teachings of the Buddha. A valuable introduction by H.H. - written in his usual kind and compassionate style, which is so reflective of the manifestation of the Bodhisattva Chenrezig. A valuable guide and fine addition to most any library.

I read this book at a time of crisis in my life and it was as if it had been written just for me! As someone who has had a strong interest in religious philosophy all my life and who has been particularly interested in Buddhism, I found in this book, the wisdom and the compassion I needed to confirm my own path toward personal freedom. A good antidote to the cynicism and adversarialism surrounding us. I think I'll read it again!

This book is an excellent introduction to Buddhist thought. As someone who is just beginning to explore the precepts of Buddhism, this book gives a great summary of the basics. However, its true gift is that it challenges anyone who reads it to begin making changes in themselves in a way that would bring a positive influence in the world.

In addition to being a meticulously executed illustrated art book, The Dalai Lama's Secret Temple: Tantric Wall Paintings from Tibet by Ian A. Baker, et al. guides the reader through some lesser known biographical details of Tibet's greatest Dalai Lamas and of the history of Tibetan Buddhist culture as a whole. The amazing drawings, many of which painted in an almost feverish surrealistic style, are accompanied by insights into the lore of the Dalai Lamas, with thoughtful excerpts from their writings. I am also much obliged as a book shopper to show my appreciation to the book's publisher, Thames & Hudson, for the excellent printing quality and overall layout and binding of this book, details which for me always work to enhance the message of a book and to demonstrate the seriousness and loving care with which the authors themselves have treated their creation.

Herein one can see unmistakable evidence of the ancient Secret Doctrine so well-protected by the Sacred Order of Tibet. It is a shame that this doctrine is lost in a proliferation of intellectualism and out-right black magic, but the clarity and powerful beauty of these images reveal that the doctrine exists for those who seek it. The writer even acknowledges with quotes from H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama the essential clue of White Tantrism; but this book isn't the place to learn that. A beautiful book, a tantalizing glimpse at a hidden science. For more information on the Secret Teachings of the Tibetans, read "The Perfect Matrimony" by Samael Aun Weor.

The Dala Lama's Secret Temple is a wonderful and insightful look into one of the most spectacular temples in Lhasa. Having just visited the Lukhang, I had the pleasure to personally view the murals. Many of which are unique to Tibetan paintings. And still very preserved. Better than I could have photographed myself, this book presents each of the walls paintings in the highest quality plates. Descriptions of the historical significance of the temple mirror the detail works of the painting. A nice addition to a library of Tibetan Art and Buddhism.

While "Dead Before Dark" is a welcome addition to the horror --vampire/mystery/romance/girl power genre that Laurel K. Hamilton and Tanya Huff do so well, I found the basic premise of the story derivative of the two authors. It seems to follow the Laurel K. Hamilton pattern in particular. Girl with 'superpowers' falls for and has problems deciding between a vampire and shape shifter and or werewolf.

That being said, Charlaine Harris tells a fantastic a fun story with interesting characters and with a premise that I'd like to follow into an indefinite amount of sequels. The mystery is engaging, and any book that has the main character named Sookie is just too much fun.

Sookie reads peoples thoughts whether she wants to or not. Everyone thinks she's crazy because she spends so much time trying not to read other people's thoughts that it makes her dingy. So, she never has boyfriends, because really, who wants to be able to read their lover's mind in the middle of an intimate moment? Then Sookie's dream man, the one-man whose mind she can't read walks into her bar. The fact that he's a Vampire just makes dating a bit more complicated. Oh, and the fact that a killer is on the loose biting women's inner thighs and then strangling them to death, and her Vampire boyfriend Bill and her brother (who likes kinky sex) are at the top of the list of suspects.

Harris is definitely a new author worth watching and if you like your horror mixed with romance / laughter and a kick ... heroine then "Dead Until Dark" is the book for you.

This is a cute little story, albeit one with an edge. I adored it, and thought the love scenes were among the sweetest and sexiest that I have ever read. It grabbed my attention because while the premise is not necessarily an original one, the way it's written is fresh and different. Sookie is a blond waitress who lives in rural Louisiana, is embarrassed about being able to read minds, and falls in love with a vampire named Bill. Bill is trying to live as a normal person, and even goes so far as to give a talk about being a soldier in the Civil War to Sookie's grandmother's chapter of the Descendants of the Glorious Dead. (I think that's what it was called - don't have my copy handy.) Many others have provided summaries of the plot, so I won't go further, except to say I truly enjoyed this story.

OK, a lot of people compare the Sookie Stackhouse series to the Anita Blake series. Yes, it is similar, and I suppose that people who like Anita Blake may like Sookie Stackhouse too. But Anita is violent, soulless, repetitive (please no more descriptions of the same old guns and clothes), filled with typos (don't Laurell Hamilton's editors ever check for misspellings, confusing "lie" and "laid" with "lay", etc?), and stubborn in a bad way (back and forth arguments between Anita and whoever she's currently fighting with can go on for pages until the other party finally gives up in exhaustion). It's also ultimately silly as the books are simply an excuse for the author to write about her fantasies of lying (not "laying") in a puppy pile of naked men with great abs and waist-length hair. In comparison, Sookie is sweet, good-natured and actually true to her ideals--someone you can actually like as a person.

Charlaine Harris writes a remarkably entertaining mystery that shows Louisiana as a hot bed of people with "gifts" of many sorts. Sookie the telepathic cocktail-waitress; her boyfriend Bill the Vampire; and Sookie's boss Sam who has quite a surprise of his own!

When a young woman turns up strangled, and fang marks shows that she had been fed upon in the not so distant pass, suspicions abound in the tiny town of Bon Temps. And when another victim is found murdered with a similar MO, the long arm of the law starts to rech out towards Sookie's brother who apparently has been having "relations" with both.

Plot twists abound, and the characterizations are wonderful. A fun read that I can highly recommend.