In Exile from the Land of Snows

The Definitive Account of the Dalai Lama and Tibet Since the Chinese Conquest

By: John Avedon

Narrated by: Bob Souer

Tibet, "the roof of the world", had been aloof and at peace for most of its 2,100 years. But in 1932, the Thirteenth Dalai Lama, in his final testament, warned: "It may happen that here, in the center of Tibet, religion and government will be attacked both from without and from within." By the time his successor was enthroned in 1950, the Chinese occupation had begun.

In this gripping account, John Avedon draws on his work and travels with the Fourteenth Dalai Lama to bring us the riveting story of Tibet and its temporal and spiritual leader. Included is an extensive interview with the Dalai Lama, who speaks about the conditions in Tibet, the mind of a Buddha, and the events of his life. Rigorously researched, passionately written, the original edition of In Exile From the Land of Snows was instrumental in launching the modern Tibet movement when it was published in 1984. Now, some three decades later, Avedon's testimony is more wrenching and relevant than ever.

©2015 John F. Avedon (P)2015 Tantor

Critic reviews

"An historic document." ( Kirkus)

EXCELLENT

This is an excellent book about the history of Tibet.
I wholeheartedly agree with the review by mr. Pearson Sharp.
There are many, very touching moments in the book.
I definitely rate the book among one of the best and I will listen to it again in the future.
The narrator mr. Bob Souer is a pleasure to listen to.
My thanks to all involved, JK.

excellent

An excellent story. surprising,. i did not know how much China did against the Tibetans.

excellent, accurate history of Tibet

a tremendous and comprehensive history of Tibet, it's culture, religion, medicine, and struggle with China.

Great historical account, too much random detail

Loved the first bit about Tibet history and early Chinese occupation, as well as subsequent parts that covered real events of significance. But the book goes on long tangents about Tibetan medicine, supernatural lore, detailed accounts of specific govt programs, and other things that don't add much to the overall understanding of Tibet's history or the state of current world affairs.