The first authoritative biography of the Dalai Lama' s story by turns inspiring and shocking from an acclaimed Tibetan scholar with exceptional access to his subject.

Not a "religious" or "spiritual" book, rather more a secular biography, although the author is extremely sympathetic to the Dalai's spiritual quest. Quite good in describing the feudal nature of Tibetan society, although I found the author's viewpoint just a bit too sympathetic toward the CIA. Includes a useful glossary. ( )