The Story of Tibet: Conversations with the Dalai Lama tells the sumptuous story of the enigmatic land of Tibet from the viewpoint of author Thomas Laird, who was blessed with sixty hours of interviews with the beautiful soul that is the Dalai Lama. Laird had unprecedented access (this is the first such discussion with a Dalai Lama since the 1600s) to His Holiness, and together these men have given posterity an invaluable treasure trove of the beauty of the country of Tibet and all it stands for.

The book travels through time, beginning with the first Tibetans and passing through the rise of the Manchu to the Chinese occupation into today. Meticulous research is supplemented by photographs and gorgeous reproductions of exquisite illustrations from many beautiful murals.

The Dalai Lama is arguably the most sincerely gentle person alive today, and the fact that this book corroborates that is no surprise. Readers may be surprised, however, to learn that His Holiness has an impish sense of humor and no small amount of charm. His wise advice is gently put forward so as not to be off-putting, but that does nothing to dilute the sagacity of his words.

Laird and His Holiness, the Dalai Lama have created a book that is a feast for the eyes, mind and heart. It is so reader-friendly that the fact that you are learning both history and life lessons just sneaks up on you while you are immersed in the joy of the read. Anyone who wants to open their mind and, by extension, their heart must read this book.

This book should most adamantly be mandatory reading for all politicians. Would that all who read The Story of Tibet will take it to heart and try to implement the Dalai Lama’s teaching in our lives. Laird has created a masterpiece that will prove invaluable to the history of literature and religion.