The Book of Tibetan Elders

This is a wonderful book. There are countless volumes about Tibetan Buddhism on bookshelves today, but none that speaks of the pilgrim's journey quite like this one. It's written in such a refreshingly honest style, and the answers given to the questions asked provide a clear and useable foundation to the basics of Buddhist practice without being preachy or obtuse. I think the last paragraph sums up the whole experience very well: "The people of Shambala hold the secrets, secrets we must once have known but somehow have lost sight of, that peace must be found first within ourselves before we can begin to expect peace in the world. Theirs was a civilization that lived peacefully for at least a thousand years, until their borders were invaded. They offer us some practical advice for achieving inner peace, a handbook for saving the world, written by some of the last people alive who have access to the instructions." I like that very much. If you read this book you will not be disappointed.

This unpretentious little book, printed in its paperback edition on slightly rough, newspapery paper, is humble about itself, but it is so full of warmth, love and heart that I can't see how anyone could *NOT* fall in love with it. The author injects her personal quest for a teacher, for answers, and for a good relationship with her mother into a series of interviews with Tibetans. I found the down-to-earthness absolutely refreshing. Her encounter with the Dalai Lama reinforces my extremely high opinion of him (he jumped down one step and told Sandy "Now I'm on the same level as you!") But all sorts of little vignettes shine forth... This book also has some really practical advice strung throughout, told by Tibetans themselves, instructions on how to meditate, how to honor a guru, how to live with a loving heart. I will definitely read this book again someday soon!

What a great book to read if you want to have an understanding of Buddhism. The author has an incredible way of pulling you in to the book and you feel as if you are there beside her during her journey. I was so touched by the book. Her describing her meeting with the Dalai Lama as if she were in the presence of pure light was so profoundly touching. Interesting subject matter in itself, but the author's talents make the book a must for anyone with curiosity about Buddhism and the Tibetan people and their culture.

This book is a joy to read. The autobiographical aspects are as compelling as the many wonderful dharma insights offered the reader in the interviews with the Tibetan "elders." Lots of good practical advice for the budding Buddhist practitioner.

This work helps us understand the unique and powerful perspective on life held by these spiritual masters. What's more, it is told in the context of a fascinating adventure explored by the author. We see how she is is changed by the experience