From School Library Journal
Grade 10 Up-This biography of the exiled Tibetan leader makes up in depth of detail what it lacks in objectivity. Drawing extensively from the Dalai Lama's own published memoirs and many other accounts of his life and the situation in Tibet, Marcello's lengthy, strictly chronological account begins with the subject's birth, selection for the position, education, and career, concluding with a short chapter on his present life. The author clearly supports the Dalai Lama's position against Chinese occupation of Tibet; the Chinese position is mentioned in several scattered places but not explained. She often reports individuals' positions and feelings without attribution, though all of the direct quotations are footnoted. The writing style is fairly clear, but dry. Illustrations are limited to a two-page "photo-essay" with four black-and-white photographs of the Dalai Lama. Whitney Stewart's The 14th Dalai Lama (Lerner, 2000) and Louis G. Perez's The Dalai Lama (Rourke, 1993), both written for a slightly younger audience, include many illustrative photographs and sufficient background information to explain the events described. Chris Gibb's The Dalai Lama (Raintree, 2003) is much shorter but features larger, color photographs, and includes coverage of other important Tibetan religious figures. Clearly, Marcello's book is aimed at high school report writers, and is a serviceable addition for libraries serving them.Jonathan Betz-Zall, City University Library, Everett, WACopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Book Description
The Dalai Lama's story is revealed from his early family life to his experiences in the world, his education as the 14th incarnation of the Lama, his exile in India, and his current struggles to help Tibet regain its independence from China.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

"The Dalai Lama is both the living conscience of the Tibetan people and an internationally respected human rights symbol. His high-profile appearances and books have fueled the surging popularity of Buddhism in the United States and throughout the West. This new, up-to-date biography provides insight into the curious and winning personality of the Dalai Lama as a boy and his wisdom as a man. The Buddhist spiritual worlds and the Dalai Lama's rarified role is engaging and evenly presented." The Dalai Lama's story is revealed from his early family life to his experiences in the world, his education as the 14th incarnation of the Lama, his exile in India, and his current struggles to help Tibet regain its independence from China. Especially helpful is the clear historical overview of the Tibetan crisis after the Chinese invasion. A timeline and glossary also supplement the text. Though the book is written especially for high school students doing reports, it will also be of immense interest to general readers.

SYNOPSIS

The Dalai Lama's story is revealed from his early family life to his struggles for Tibet's independence from China.

FROM THE CRITICS

School Library Journal