A fascinating but challenging account of the history of the 14th Dalai Lama.

Alexander Norman provides an in-depth examination of the political and societal environments that produced the the current manifestation of the Lama and the impact that he has had on the global perception of Tibet and its religious traditions.

It's a challenging but rewarding read and I learned alot, however there are moments that Norman writes as a devout convert as opposed to an objective observer which many may find challenging.

Overall it's an engimatic and complicated read - refelective of its subject matter.

A good introduction to the Dalai Lama. Lots of simple information and easy to follow timelines. Will recommend.