The Dalai Lama

Description

In 1937, a vision led the high lamas of Tibet to an old house in the mountains, with a turquoise roof. Here lived 2-year-old Lhamo Dhondrub, who would go on to become the 14th Dalai Lama. But how did this toddler grow into one of the world's most important religious figures? And why has he been forced into exile? The Dalai Lama looks at his extraordinary story, from his education by monks, deep in the Tibetan mountains, to how he became leader of Tibet aged just 15. The Chinese invasion of Tibet, that forced him to flee his homeland, and begin a new life and government in exile in India, is explained, as is the plight of ordinary Tibetans. The Buddhist faith, and exactly what it means to be a Buddhist, is explored, as is the role it plays in the lives of people around the world. The book also looks at the Dalai Lama's work as a teacher and a leader, and at some of the issues he campaigns for - particularly his environmental activism, and his work to promote religious cooperation and interfaith dialogue.

Cath Senker is a children's non-fiction writer who specialises in writing about modern history, global issues and world religions. Her latest history titles include Living Through the Vietnam War (Raintree, 2011), Our World Divided: Israel and the Middle East (Wayland, 2011) and A Cultural History of Women in America: Women Claim the Vote (Bailey Publishing, 2011). She has a particular interest in the topics of migration, refugees and racism and recently wrote Mapping Global Issues: Immigrants and Refugees (Arcturus, 2011). In her work, Cath aims to highlight individuals' experiences and to present different viewpoints in a non-judgemental way as a basis for discussion. Cath also works as a project manager and editor on non-fiction titles for both children and adults. Before embarking on a freelance career, she worked as a commissioning editor for a children's educational publishing company for eight years. She is also an experienced ESOL teacher. Cath volunteers with City Reads, a project that aims to widen the enjoyment of books and reading among people of all ages, especially people from disadvantaged communities. She is a also a keen amateur cyclist, cook and gardener.

The book looks at his extraordinary story, from his education by monks, deep in theTibetan mountains, to how he became leader of Tibet aged just 15 ... The Dalai Lama has led an amazing life - as a teacher, a leader, an environmental activist and a worker for religious co-operation. It's a fascinating account of an amazing man * Parents In Touch *