Product Description
In this classic scripture of Tibetan Buddhism—traditionally read aloud to the dying to help them attain liberation —death and rebirth are seen as a process that provides an opportunity to recognize the true nature of mind.

This book-and-audio set offers a new way to encounter the profound meaning of this sacred text. The package contains a complete edition of The Tibetan Book of the Dead with an introduction by Francesca Fremantle and insightful commentary by Chögyam Trungpa, written in clear concise language, that explains the text and offers a psychological perspective on its teachings.

Also included here is a set of three audio CDs with an introduction by Fremantle and a translation of The Tibetan Book of the Dead, both read by the actor Richard Gere.

3 CDs, with a 192-page book ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Trippy
A great insight which contains new perspectivesand wisdom for the living.I listened to this every day in Phoenix traffic which is horrible and it mellowed me out.The book pairs well with psychedelics. :)

Fremantle-Trungpa's full translation (not included) finally recited
This supersedes an earlier version that paired a blue-covered "pocket" condensation of the TBoD with a shorter audiotape. While the added material may overwhelm a first-time student of this daunting text, here's some suggestions for how to get the most out of this tape. Read the book first, study its commentary, and then you'll benefit more from hearing it in this eloquent presentation. No book, however, is provided in this unabridged 3-CD set.

Listening to this set of recordings can be very beneficial. Provided that one understands the basics of the content first. Unlike many other audiobooks, I'd advise the user to read the book first, perhaps repeatedly, and then let the assured, steady voice of Richard Gere, admirably suited to this formidable set of prescriptions, encouragement, and cautions from the world beyond, sink in to enhance one's comprehension of this quite disorienting-- literally-- set of precepts for making one's way through the projections of beauty and terror as the spirit encounters the passageways through the days after death.

The three CDs begin, disc one, with a brief introduction and the first part that follows the physical death of the body and its entry into the next array of apparitions, projections, and sensations. Disc two takes one through the bardo of "dharmata" into the visions of calm and turmoil. Disc three concludes as the spirit read to fails, presumably, to find freedom and becomes tempted to return to another body; guidance for finding the best match is offered in this dharma of becoming, for another go-around of existence.

However, I would not start simply by cuing up the CDs of this calm, modulated, and well-paced recitation of "The Book of Liberation in the Great Bardo by Hearing," although that's how this medieval Tibetan "treasure-text" is meant to be heard-- spoken by a guru at the deathbed, aloud for the soul that's recently left its body. Why? We in the West nearly all will lack the familiarity that its original audience would have had with the advanced practices in this life meant to prepare the spirit-body for its entry into the complex sounds and visions of the afterlife.

This text remains esoteric, challenging, and erudite for Westerners. It's necessary to study it first, as you may easily be baffled or your attention may wander unless you have made an effort first to comprehend the gist of the translation included. Therefore, I'd read it first, with the introductory material that translators Francesca Fremantle and Chogyam Trungpa provide. I remind you that the yellow-covered edition here offered differs from that earlier issues-- in a blue cover-- which was the condensed "pocket" version rather than the fuller 1975 publication by Shambhala. I'd recommend the whole deal; this is essential material that newcomers need for grasping what can be a very slippery compendium of exhortations, warnings, and appeals.

You may even want to go further with finding out more about what's rather misleadingly called the "Tibetan Book of the Dead," named by W.Y. Evans-Wentz, its first popularizer, to associate it in the 1920s with the Egyptian pop culture craze. Curious readers may want to take on other renderings for comparison and deeper appreciation. I've reviewed on Amazon the following texts: a simpler telling, Stephen Hodge & Martin Boord's "Illustrated TBoD;" Robert Thurman's expanded edition and translation of the "TBoD" and supplemental texts-- much greater detail than the version provided and recorded here; the entire "TBoD" recently issued from Penguin by Gyurme Dorje, Graham Coleman and others; and Fremantle's incorporation of a revision of some of the earlier translation in this book-CD set, as her commentary on the TBoD after an additional twenty-five years of study, "Luminous Emptiness."

After studying these texts, I found this CD recording. Hearing the TBoD for the first time, then, I appreciated nuances that had escaped me before. I found my concentration drifting, and the ability to rewind a few seconds or sentences to focus again proved a great stimulus. I wondered how Gere or any actor would take on such lists as the 58 wrathful deities, but his skill shows in small details.

He almost hesitates a millisecond before pronouncing the Tibetan and Sanskrit, often polysyllabic, names, and this prepares you to pay closer attention. This shift prepares you for the instruction; similarly he softens his tone when giving the invocations, appealing for their liberating message to be made manifest. He subtly accents even "buddha" and gives the final stress to "dharmata" in a way that gently reminds you of the difference of this elevated but somehow direct and unforgettable teaching, and of its poetic presence.

Study the text, then hear its nuances
An explanation for the buyer: this blue-covered, older version combines a published "pocket" condensation of the TBoD with a shorter tape read by Richard Gere. A longer, unabridged 3-CD version has been released in September 2008 with a yellow cover. This follows the longer translation with commentary published by Shambhala back in 1975, but the book is not included in the yellow-covered CD set (also reviewed by me).

Listening to this recording can be very beneficial. Provided that one understands the basics of the content first. Unlike many other audiobooks, I'd advise the user to read the book first, perhaps repeatedly, and then let the assured, steady voice of Richard Gere, admirably suited to this formidable set of prescriptions, encouragement, and cautions from the world beyond, sink in to enhance one's comprehension of this quite disorienting-- literally-- set of precepts for making one's way through the projections of beauty and terror as the spirit encounters the passageways through the days after death.

However, I would not start simply by cuing up the tape of this calm, modulated, and well-paced recitation of "The Book of Liberation in the Great Bardo by Hearing," although that's how this medieval Tibetan "treasure-text" is meant to be heard-- spoken by a guru at the deathbed, aloud for the soul that's recently left its body. Why? We in the West nearly all will lack the familiarity that its original audience would have had with the advanced practices in this life meant to prepare the spirit-body for its entry into the complex sounds and visions of the afterlife.

This text remains esoteric, challenging, and erudite for Westerners. It's necessary to study it first, as you may easily be baffled or your attention may wander unless you have made an effort first to comprehend the gist of the translation included. Therefore, I'd read it first, with the introductory material that translators Francesca Fremantle and Chogyam Trungpa provide. I remind you that the edition here provided is a condensed version rather than the fuller 1975 publication by Shambhala. The "pocket" printing does cut down, necessarily but perhaps less than helpfully, essential material that newcomers need for grasping what can be a very slippery compendium of exhortations, warnings, and appeals.

You may even want to go further with finding out more about what's rather misleadingly called the "Tibetan Book of the Dead," named by W.Y. Evans-Wentz, its first popularizer, to associate it in the 1920s with the Egyptian pop culture craze. Curious readers may want to take on other renderings for comparison and deeper appreciation. I've reviewed on Amazon the following texts: a simpler telling, Stephen Hodge & Martin Boord's "Illustrated TBoD;" Robert Thurman's expanded edition and translation of the "TBoD" and supplemental texts-- much greater detail than the version provided and recorded here; the entire "TBoD" recently issued from Penguin by Gyurme Dorje, Graham Coleman and others; and Fremantle's incorporation of a revision of some of the earlier translation in this book-CD set, as her commentary on the TBoD after an additional twenty-five years of study, "Luminous Emptiness."

After studying these texts, I found this CD recording. Hearing the TBoD for the first time, then, I appreciated nuances that had escaped me before. I found my concentration drifting, and the ability to rewind a few seconds or sentences to focus again proved a great stimulus. I wondered how Gere or any actor would take on such lists as the 58 wrathful deities, but his skill shows in small details. He almost hesitates a millisecond before pronouncing the Tibetan polysyllabic names, and this prepares you to pay attention. This shift prepares you for the instruction; similarly he softens his tone when giving the invocations, appealing for their liberating message to be made manifest. He subtly accents even "buddha" and gives the final stress to "dharmata" in a way that gently reminds you of the difference of this elevated but somehow direct and unforgettable teaching, and of its poetic presence.

Nice, attractive gift set
I purchased for myself and received this set in March '08.It would certainly make a nice gift.As one interested in Eastern practices this set has been a good introduction for me to the TBD.Richard Gere is easy on the ears, too ;) Recommended to purchase.

CD aids retention & comprehension
I'm new to Buddhism, about to attend my first Dzogchen Retreat, and was advised to read this text. I selected this version not because of how much I admire the talent of Richard Gere the actor, but because of hearing about Richard Gere the philanthropist who donates proceeds to build Buddhist shrines--thus epitomizing the Bodhisattva vow, Even if I become rich and famous, I will wisely shun conceit; worldly fortune is without essence.
I found that the audio CD is compellingly yet relaxingly performed. His voice is subdued, yet retains the elocution evidenced in his worldly artistry. His expertise with cadence and tone and using them to render continually interesting the rather repetitive text allows the repetitive parts to do their work: to sink in and to generate images and thoughts, rather than float by unretained. In such a way he effectively utilizes the Buddhist science of prosody.

Material that could have felt droning or intimidating in written form thus was rendered accessible and even fascinating in audio form. ... Read more

Product Description
Actor Richard Gere is well known for his outspoken defense of the Tibetan people, his Buddhist beliefs, and his friendship with the Dalai Lama. What is less well known is that Gere has long been a serious and accomplished photographer. The 65 striking photos collected here document Gere's extensive travels in India, Nepal, Zanskar, and Tibet. All of Gere's profits from this book will be donated to Tibetan charities. 64 quadratone illustrations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Profound in it's evocation of love.
Stirring, compassionate, profound. One of my favorite books of all time. One of the most poetic books of photographs ever created. Best wishes to Mr. Gere.

Beautiful book
This book is really special. The cover, first of all, feels so wonderful. The pages are on incredible quality paper. And the photographs are incredible. It's really a wonderful book.

Richard shares his quest with us all
Richard has access to places most people do not. Take, for example, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His Holiness is not accessable to you and I on the level that Richard has. Richard shares private photos, such as plate 63 where His Holiness is in meditation. The photo alone portrays a depth of intensity that the experience offers. Richard also has a true sense of the tragedy of the Tibetan people and can deliver that in a light that few people can ever grasp, even after several trips to the region. Richard is the Pilgrim and we are fortunate to be able to see things in a way he does. Very few photographers can say that of their work. Perhaps it is due to his experience in film, perhaps as a result of his practice as a buddhist, maybe just because the openness of his sharing is felt in his work, regardless of the medium. Thank you my friend for sharing your life with us and a wonderful book.

These images broke my heart.
This book was exactly what I expected from such a sensitive and intelligent man.Thank you, Mr. Gere.We need our hearts broken now and then.

pictures of compassion
I cannot look at this book without crying. It is very beautiful yetpierces my heart with sadness, I believe that the plight of Tibet is thecanary of our planet. This book is about an amazing and gentle people andmy hope and prayer is that it will generate more compassion . The text isvery direct and simple and is not next to the photos but at the back.Onequote stuck in my mind, "It's all ego." You can see these photoswith your heart and they will melt it, if you are open. ... Read more

Product Description
Two hip child-care professionals, classically trained in the Mary Poppins English nanny tradition, share insider secrets about raising happy and well-behaved children

She's more British than cricket, crumpets, Big Ben, or the Beatles, more admired than the royal family. She's the English nanny, and when it comes to child-raising, there's nothing quite like her. Now, in Nanny Wisdom, two hip young nannies combine their classical English training with the day-to-day knowledge they've gained as child-care professionals to offer expert advice on raising healthy, happy, and well-behaved children from birth through the preschool years.

Justine Walsh and Kim Nicholson have been professional nannies for more than a decade, and they have worked with a wide variety of families. Whether it's establishing a schedule to structure your child's day, preparing nutritious and kid-friendly meals, solving a child's sleeping problems, overcoming tantrums, or teaching good manners, these nannies provide loving but no-nonsense guidelines that every parent can follow. The entertaining and extremely readable text is filled with personal stories, sidebars that highlight important advice, and easy-to-prepare recipes. Like having a nanny as part of your household, Nanny Wisdom will be a godsend for all parents who want nothing but the best for their children

With expert advice and information distilled from generations of English nannies, updated for the 21st century
Covers all the topics parents are concerned about with newborns and babies, toddlers, and preschoolers
With a positive, loving, sensible approach and friendly tone. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Fab Resource for Parents and Childcare Providers
I am a nanny myself of almost 5 years now, with a degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and more than 10 years of experience as a babysitter, not to mention the fact that I'm the oldest of four children and learned to change a diaper when I was 6. However, I am always looking to learn more and exploring various childcare/parenting resources. This book is -by far- the best single book on raising children that I have come across as of yet. It is immensely practical with tips and tricks all across the board, specifics provided, excellent recipes that I am looking forward to trying out with my charges, and a wonderful feeling of comfort in the friendly approach. I highly recommend this book to parents who are expecting all the way up through young preschoolers. You simply cannot beat this book for a concise look at all areas of raising a child, from how to set/fix sleep schedules, how to start off right and to fix diets, good toys for all ages, to how to prepare your child for school. You name it, it's in there. Great resource. I will be recommending it to my local nanny group.

Lots of GREAT parenting advice
This book is great for first time parents.This is my most referenced parenting books and I have several!I kept checking this out from the library before I finally bought my own copy.You won't regret buying this one.

Great Book for Us Grammies
Just finished the final chapter and although my parenting of "lovely's are now with my grandchildren, you can always learn something new.The recipe's and the "how to" approach is consistent and right on!All the advice on how to deal with a child sleeping through the night helped out my daughter immensly.The nannies are great and their knowledge is superb.I highly recommend this book to new mothers, new dads, grammies and granpies - everyone who needs "expertise" on handling all the new situations that come with the title of parent.

A Neccesity for Every Parent!
This book has been incredibly helpful to my husband and I, we purchased it after hearing one of the nannies on a morning weekly radio show in Minneapolis. The nanny gives out advice to parents each week and we always enjoy listening to what she has to say. We have 3 kids under 5 and really value the advice of British nannies, this books encourages a routine and schedule, fresh meals and plenty of sleep for kids (and parents). Since reading the book we have introduced these things and have seen incredible changes, our kids are so much happier, they are now going to bed earlier, helping me out in the kitchen, and our bedtime routine is so much easier. Thank You nannies.

The best!
I have read every baby book there is, and this definitely rates in the top 5.It's nothing earth-shattering or totally new, but there are great examples and good real-life ideas to use with your kids.Plus, it's entertaining to read. ... Read more

Product Description
This is a biography of the actor, Richard Gere, who found Hollywood stardom in the 1980s with films such as "American Gigolo", "Yanks", "An Officer and a Gentleman" and "Breathless". The book traces Gere's life and career from his staunchly Methodist middle-class upbringing to his present role as a Buddhist and a champion of good causes. It examines how he has been determined to remain an individual, almost dismissive of his career, and living down his celebrity image. The book looks at his college success, his musical talents and failings, his West end hits in "Grease", his more recent films, including "Pretty Woman", "Sommersby" and "First Knight", and his marriage to supermodel, Cindy Crawford. ... Read more

Product Description
A biography of Hollywood star Richard Gere, which traces his success through his early films such as AMERICAN GIGOLO and AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN to his major success with PRETTY WOMAN. Addresses the rumours concerning his turbulent marriage to Cindy Crawford and the suggestions that he is gay. First published in 1995. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Richard Gere: Body better than words
When you read an unauthorized bio, don't set yourself up for a disappointment. This book was. It covers the basic facts with a candycoating of media salesmanship. Terrible, but it got a three for the photograph on the cover. ... Read more

Product Description
No person today is untouched by what happens in the rest of the world. With this historic development, the Dalai Lama understands that the essential task of humanity is to cultivate peaceful coexistence. But this has long been problematic with religion, and while previous conflicts over religious differences may have been significant, they did not threaten the very survival of humanity. Now, when extremists have access to powerful technologies, a single spark could ignite a powder keg of frightening proportions. 
           
Yet the Dalai Lama shows how the challenges of globalization can also move us in another direction, to a deeper plane where nations, cultures, and individuals connect through their shared human nature. All major religions confront the same perennial questions; each has distinct forms of expression. But this marvelous diversity of insight has the potential for inspiring dialogue that can enrich everyone’s pursuit of wisdom.

Toward a True Kinship of Faiths explores where differences between religions can be genuinely appreciated without serving as sources of conflict, as well as offers a hopeful yet realistic look at how humanity must step into the future. ... Read more

Product Description
COMPASSION--SYMPATHY FOR THE suffering of others and the desire to free them from it--is wrestled with in all spiritual traditions. Yet how does one actually become a compassionate person? What are the mechanisms by which a selfish heart is transformed into a generous heart?

When His Holiness the Dalai Lama came to New York City in 1999, he spoke simply and powerfully on the everyday Buddhist practice of compassion. Weaving together the contents of three sacred texts-- one by the eighth-century Indian master Kamalashila, another by the fourteenth-century Tibetan Togmay Sangpo, and a third by the eleventh-century sage Langri Tangpa--His Holiness showed that the path to compassion is a series of meditations. An Open Heart lays out this course of meditation, from the simplest to the most challenging, describing the mental training techniques that will enable anyone of any faith to change their minds and open their hearts. In this book the path begins with simple and clear ruminations on the advantages of a virtuous life and moves on to practices that can temper destructive and impulsive emotions. Such practices can be undertaken at odd moments of the day, at once transforming the aimless or anxious mind into a disciplined and open mind. Gradually, the book introduces the more challenging and sustained meditation practices. In these meditations the deepest and most profound insights of Buddhist practice become part of one's way of knowing and experiencing the world.

An Open Heart is a clear and simple introduction to the Buddhist path to enlightenment, by its greatest teacher, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.Amazon.com Review
In the summer of 1999, the Dalai Lama addressed an audience of over 40,000 in Central Park on how to live a better life. Open Heart isderived from this and other popular lectures given in New York. Here, theDalai Lama progresses beyond his bestsellers The Art of Happiness andEthics for the New Millennium by introducing specific practices thatcan engender happiness. Spiritual practice, according to the Dalai Lama, isa matter of taming unwanted emotions, which means becoming aware of how themind works. Through the methods of analytical and settledmeditation, the Dalai Lama shows how we can cultivate helpful states of mindand eliminate harmful states, leading us to develop compassion for othersand happiness for ourselves. But there is no preaching of a single, rightmethod. This revered but humble monk merely invites the reader to understandthe causes of one's suffering and consider how best to alleviate it. OpenHeart should draw crowds to the bookstores and lead us all to moresatisfactory living. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

A master of compassionate mindfulness practice
An open heart and an open mind are characteristics of the Buddhist way of mindfulness. This opens us to the unconditioned spaciousness that is pure buddha consciousness. When we cultivate this within then we create the right conditions for peace and happiness without. This is the central teaching of this great man. If you would like to read more about the power of mindfulness, I also recommend 'The Path of Mindfulness Meditation', available through Amazon.

Read it, love it, live it.
A wonderful and poignant expression of the need for compassion and how to achieve it in your own life.Highly recommended for everyone; from young to old. One of my favorite books.

Buddhism in a nutshell
This book is a general introduction to Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism.It covers a whole range of topics including the three jewel of refuge, karma, equanimity, loving-kindness (the wish that all may enjoy happiness), bodhicitta (the motivation to serve all people), emptiness and more. The book describes the different levels a student of Buddhism proceeds through as he achieves greater and greater enlightenment.These levels range from the beginners task of conquering personal faults, such as anger, all the way up to Buddhahood (the highest form of understanding of reality combined with the desire to benefit all sentient beings).All this is achieved through the practical methods of analytical meditation and settled meditation.In analytical meditation rational thought is applied in order to generate a specific quality, such as patience.In settled meditation the practitioner remains fixed on a feeling, or object of contemplation, without thought.

is in fact a summary of Kanalasha's , Togmay Sangpo's and Langri Tangpa's .These are the central texts of Tibetan Buddhism.

As I have tried to indicate above, despite the subtitle of the book, this work is not exclusively on compassion (the desire to alleviate the suffering of all beings).Compassion is a very important part of Buddhism and indeed chapters seven to ten concentrate specifically on that subject.There are fifteen chapters in all.

The Dalai Lama is a very clear speaker who has set as his task the aim of introducing the world to Buddhism.As a result this book is very easy to follow and would be ideal for someone seeking a first time encounter with Buddhism.I would have to note, however, that so much material is cover in such a brief way that the book could be said to lack substance.It does not contain meaty discussions.The reader is left with a desire to follow up his new-found interests by reading other books probably written by other authors.I should also note that while the two methods of meditation are discussed very few practical suggestions are included.The book does not contain a step by step guide or how-to section.

Buddhism in a nutshell
This book is a general introduction to Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism.It covers a whole range of topics including the three jewel of refuge, karma, equanimity, loving-kindness (the wish that all may enjoy happiness), bodhicitta (the motivation to serve all people), emptiness and more. The book describes the different levels a student of Buddhism proceeds through as he achieves greater and greater enlightenment.These levels range from the beginners task of conquering personal faults, such as anger, all the way up to Buddhahood (the highest form of understanding of reality combined with the desire to benefit all sentient beings).All this is achieved through the practical methods of analytical meditation and settled meditation.In analytical meditation rational thought is applied in order to generate a specific quality, such as patience.In settled meditation the practitioner remains fixed on a feeling, or object of contemplation, without thought.

is in fact a summary of Kanalasha's , Togmay Sangpo's and Langri Tangpa's .These are the central texts of Tibetan Buddhism.

As I have tried to indicate above, despite the subtitle of the book, this work is not exclusively on compassion (the desire to alleviate the suffering of all beings).Compassion is a very important part of Buddhism and indeed chapters seven to ten concentrate specifically on that subject.There are fifteen chapters in all.

The Dalai Lama is a very clear speaker who has set as his task the aim of introducing the world to Buddhism.As a result this book is very easy to follow and would be ideal for someone seeking a first time encounter with Buddhism.I would have to note, however, that so much material is cover in such a brief way that the book could be said to lack substance.It does not contain meaty discussions.The reader is left with a desire to follow up his new-found interests by reading other books probably written by other authors.I should also note that while the two methods of meditation are discussed very few practical suggestions are included.The book does not contain a step by step guide or how-to section.

Buddhism in a nutshell
This book is a general introduction to Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism.It covers a whole range of topics including the three jewel of refuge, karma, equanimity, loving-kindness (the wish that all may enjoy happiness), bodhicitta (the motivation to serve all people), emptiness and more. The book describes the different levels a student of Buddhism proceeds through as he achieves greater and greater enlightenment.These levels range from the beginners task of conquering personal faults, such as anger, all the way up to Buddhahood (the highest form of understanding of reality combined with the desire to benefit all sentient beings).All this is achieved through the practical methods of analytical meditation and settled meditation.In analytical meditation rational thought is applied in order to generate a specific quality, such as patience.In settled meditation the practitioner remains fixed on a feeling, or object of contemplation, without thought.

is in fact a summary of Kanalasha's , Togmay Sangpo's and Langri Tangpa's .These are the central texts of Tibetan Buddhism.

As I have tried to indicate above, despite the subtitle of the book, this work is not exclusively on compassion (the desire to alleviate the suffering of all beings).Compassion is a very important part of Buddhism and indeed chapters seven to ten concentrate specifically on that subject.There are fifteen chapters in all.

The Dalai Lama is a very clear speaker who has set as his task the aim of introducing the world to Buddhism.As a result this book is very easy to follow and would be ideal for someone seeking a first time encounter with Buddhism.I would have to note, however, that so much material is cover in such a brief way that the book could be said to lack substance.It does not contain meaty discussions.The reader is left with a desire to follow up his new-found interests by reading other books probably written by other authors.I should also note that while the two methods of meditation are discussed very few practical suggestions are included.The book does not contain a step by step guide or how-to section.


... Read more

Product Description
Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World is a 64-page picture book featuring three beautifully illustrated tales from Tibet. A young prince, wise monkey, and magical guardian are some of the engaging characters that fill this book. Each story, told in English and Tibetan, offers a fun, enchanting glimpse of Tibetan culture.

The book is written and illustrated with full-page, full color paintings by Naomi C. Rose, whose previous book, Tibetan Tales for Little Buddhas (Clear Light, 2004), won the Nautilus Book Award and was a Storytelling World Honor Title.

Bilingual in English and Tibetan. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

What a Joy
Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World by Naomi C. Rose is a true joy for the mind, the heart, and the eye.The author, who is also the illustrator, takes us on an adventure into the ancient ways of the Tibetan people through the retelling, in English and Tibetan, of three simple yet profound children's stories.The stories and the the luscious illustrations are a gateway for children of all ages into a world that is unknown to most Westerners.Children hearing these tales and seeing the pictures for the first time will be delighted, and their parents and grandparents will enjoy reading and re-reading these stories to them. A special note at the front of the book from the Dalai Lama recommends it, and you can't get a better fan than that.

Beautiful book...
This book is vivid, alive, educational and entertaining.Although written for children, the messages are ageless and timeless.The warmth of the Tibetan people comes through on every page.This book is a work of art and makes a great gift...

A lovely bilingual collection of children's wisdom tales from Tibetan traditions
Featuring a foreword by the Dalai Lama and preface by Richard Gere, "Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World" by author and illustrator Naomi C. Rose (and the assistance of Tenzin Palsang, Tibetan translator) is a lovely bilingual collection of children's wisdom tales from Tibetan traditions. It is the second such collection by the author, following the earlier "Tibetan Tales for Little Buddhas," a special collaboration that won both a Nautilus Book award and an International Storytelling World Honor award. Paging through "Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World" it is easy to see why this author/illustrator deserves such high honors and awards. The three wisdom tales, Prince Jampa's Surprise, Sonam and the Stolen Cow, and Tashi's Gold, are simply told in both English and Tibetan, illustrated with beautiful colorful paintings of Tibetan scenes including special miniatures of Tibetan wildlife, catalogued carefully at the end. This marvelous edition of "Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World" is sure to enchant readers young and old with its exotic details and simple messages of gratitude, honesty, and humility as virtues to be attained. As with other of the author's undertakings, a portion of the proceeds obtained for this publication benefit the Tibetan refugee children.

Instantly Lovable
As the follow-up to Tibetan Tales for Little Buddhas, the stories in Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World each continue to focus on a single moral dilemma faced by a young character.While they take place in a beautifully painted Tibetan land, the lessons learned by each character transcend the Tibetan context to resonate with global values of compassion and peace.The artwork pays great attention to detail; you (and your children) can play "spot the critter" while reading the stories.The stories were clearly written with the intention of being read out-loud, either to children, adults, or even yourself.This is an instantly lovable book that can easily become part of your family's tradition.

A Book with Great Intelligence and Heart for Children and Adults
Tibetan Tales from the Top of the World is a book of wisdom and warmth with just the right combination of simplicity and richness to engage the minds and hearts of your family for years.The gentle humor and suspense, not to mention illustrations so vivid that they practically breathe, will draw readers immediately into a world that is both exotic and familiar and, once you are there, you will not want to leave.These are the kinds of stories that can help to awaken thoughtfulness and compassion in children and reawaken them in adults.In English and Tibetan. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

excellent
This is an expensive, coffee table book of Tibetan Art but it is wellworth it.The color photos are numerous and large.The text is welldocumented and very readable without being too dry and academic.Highlyreccomended. ... Read more

Product Description
Master photographer Kenro Izu has for years been working with the platinum palladium process to create stunning floral and nude still lifes. Using large-format cameras, and contact printing images as large as 14 x 20 inches, Izus photographs possess a rare sensuality and tactility. The photographs surface qualities and rich tonalities reference the hand-crafted beauty of earlier movements in photography, but these images are timelessthey beg contemplation and immersion from the viewer. Its no wonder Izu has been noticed by such important photography collectors as Elton John. This book, the first devoted to Izus still lifes, is certain to be a classic tome in contemporary photography. Printed on luscious Italian stock in large format, the images come alive in this rarefied book object designed by Elsa Kendall. The images are accompanied by an introduction written by Richard Gere, and an interpretive essay by noted curator Arthur Ollman.Amazon.com Review
In this stunning collection of still-life flowers and figures, photographer Kenro Izu's black and white images reveal the hidden nature of life's complex beauty. Instilled with the meditative quality and precision of a Japanese garden, these high-contrast pictures evoke an emotional and visceral response. Although beauty is captured on every page, there are also elements of tragedy in the brief glimpses of life that slowly succumb to decay. Izu's work strives to capture the disappearing moments following idealized perfection. Here, time is the subject of each photograph, showing the power of subtle degeneration. The metaphors of life, death, and decay also point to our own fate, as shown in the scrutiny of human forms. Izu's special process of using a custom-made camera to produce unusually large 14-by-20-inch negatives for platinum prints produces images with amazing clarity and detail. The exposed form and texture of skin and flowers cannot hide the blemished and deteriorating idiosyncrasies of the subjects. With his refined vision, Kenro Izu's images offer insight and invite introspection. --Lucas Hilbert ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Beautiful Work, but...
Mr. Izu produces wonderful work. His photographs of flowers are exquisite. The drawback to this book is that for it's price I expected much, much better reproductions. The screening used in the book is coarse. I have seen much better reproductions in Bullfinch and NYGS publications. John Sexton's, Ansel Adams and other's books are good examples of the quality I would have expected from a similarly priced book.

Splendid
Splendid, beautiful, conceptually magnificent.Truly gorgeous images supurbly presented.

Quietly and wonderfully beautiful...
I've long enjoyed Kenro Izu's work and have until now been able to only see a few images in different collections and publications. I was very excited when this work was published. It is both beautifully printed andpresented. The plates themselves are beautiful- amazingly beautiful. I'llleave my opinion at that, while saying that I've truly enjoyed this book.An excellent purchase. ... Read more

Product Description
Ani Pachen grew up in Tibet, her father providing all she needed. Overnight all that changed. During the Chinese invasion, Ani's father died, she took over and led her people in resistance. Eventually she was imprisoned and tortured for 21 years. Her spiritual upbringing allowed her to survive, to remain a strong and powerful woman. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

One woman's spiritual strength . . . Eternal hope for Tibet
An incredible, real-life story of a young woman born in Tibet in 1933, the only daughter of a powerful Khampa chieftan, in the years prior to China's takeover of their country. When the Chinese invaded their land, and her father died, Ani Pachen took over and led her people in the fight for their homeland, their spiritual beliefs, their culture, and their lives. It's a gut-wrenching story. This very spiritual person, from a good family with all the material possessions of the world, was captured in 1960 and imprisoned for 21 years enduring almost constant torture.

It was her spiritual faith and courage that inspired me the most while reading this book."When our time comes, each of us dies. There is nothing we can do," she explains.

After a particularly brutal beating at the hands of the Chinese thugs, she reminded herself of the teachings from one of her mentors, Gyalsay Rinpoche: "Regard everything as though it is a dream. Everything is ephemeral, ungovernable, and hollow. Work with the essential nature of your mind, pure and radiant. Keep your mind clear and aware in each moment."

"All activity should be done with one intention. To help, and not harm, others. Be gentle, be kind, be compassionate, be generous to everyone including yourself."

I just now found this book a full ten years after it was published (in 2000). It's an incredible read, an incredible story. When I looked up Ani Pachen on the web, sadly, discovered she passed away in 2002. It is a very short time we have each been given in this lifetime. I lift up my prayers for all the Tibetan people, the Dalai Lama, and the Chinese government. Ani Pachen demonstrated true love and compassion for all of these and this book motivates me to do the same.. . . Om Mani Peme Hum, Oh Jewel in the Heart of the Lotus, protect all sentient beings. ... Read more

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Since the publication of Sorrow Mountain in 2000, I have received letters from people throughout the world who felt inspired by Ani Pachen's example. Her courage in the face of devastation, as well as the Buddhist teachings that helped her endure, brought comfort to people experiencing illness, depression, and loss. I heard from others who said they received solace from the book's essential message: the ability of an individual to face unimaginable tragedy and go on. It was a source of great satisfaction to Pachen to know that her story had touched so many, it was the culmination of her dreams. In February 2002 Ani Pachen died in her sleep. Those of us who knew and loved her are comforted that she lived to see the publication of the book. She took great pride in helping to tell the world what happened in Tibet. "After years of suffering, my prayers have been answered," she often said. "I feel blessed." -Adelaide Donnelley 2002 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Real life under Chinese rule
If you want to read about how the Chinese government has been committing Tibetan genocide, this is a must read.You will also gain insights into Ani Pachen's struggles to pursue her spiritual teaching and fulfill her family role.I have greater insights into what I take for granted after reading Sorrow Mountain and what others have sacrificed.

An Enlightening Account
This is a book I could not put down.It reads as both an historical account of the overthrow of Tibet during the Mao regime, and as a personal narrative.The insight into Tibetan culture, and the damaging effect that the Chinese invasion had on a way of life, was overpowering at times.Although we can be nostalgic about many aspects of the past in any culture, including our own, the effect of the invasion on the ancient Tibetan way of life and Buddhist practices was extremely harsh and sudden."Sorrow Mountain" is an apt title, to describe the feeling of what was lost.Hopefully many customs can still be preserved, both within and outside the country.I am thankful that the Dalai Lama and others continue to share the depth of their teachings with the rest of us. It's a pity that there was no political intervention while Tibet was being so irretrievably damaged, including the widespread burning of sacred texts and the destruction of holy relics that were hundreds (or even thousands) of years old.Theloss of life paralleled that of the Holocaust.It is remarkable how "blind" political leaders can be when it is expedient. I was profoundly moved by this story, and would expect it to have a similar effect on many other readers.

Inspirational but Flawed
One day, the daughter of a Khampa chieftain, seventeen-year-old Ani Lemdha Pachen, ran away from home to avoid marrying.It wasn't that she disapproved of the match her parents' had arranged, but rather that she preferred the cerebral and peaceful world of a Buddhist nun to the physical demands of traditional married life.

Runaway Pachen had spent little time at the monastery, before she returned to her parents.Despite the shame of what she had done, they not only forgave her but agreed she would not have to marry.Before she could return to the monastery to complete her training, Pachen's father tells her of their country's dire political situation.The Chinese are coming to "liberate" them.As a Khampa princess, she will be expected to lead their people through this situation, especially if the Chief should die. So the young lady received a different type of training instead.

For all her bravery, Pachen was unable to resist for long.She was captured by the Chinese army and spent 21 years imprisoned.This true story focuses on how Pachen's spirituality kept her hopeful and sane during her confinement and during the many tortures she endured.The book is sprinkled with the Buddhist teachings that helped her maintain both her sanity and will to live through these dark days and features an introduction by the Dalai Lama himself.

Apparently Richard Gere also advocated this book's creation and publication.He contributed his own introduction and story of how the book idea was born.He speaks of Pachen's life as a "beautiful, disturbing, and deeply inspiring story."He argues that no "serious literature" in the form of narratives or the "Great Tibetan novel" had emerged from the "Tibetan Holocaust, so a book like this one would be a great boon to the Tibetan cause.Gere, of course, had become a Buddhist and was studying in Tibet at this time.

The story's merits include its insights into the life of a Tibetan woman seeking nunhood during the Mao era, it offers inspiration through triumph against extreme adversity, it draws attention to Tibet's political and cultural situation and the ways in which they have suffered in recent history, and it provides lamanistic teachings.

Despite Pachen's, Donnelly's, Gere's, the Dalai Lama's, and many others' good intentions, however, this book probably has fallen short of its intended goal. The storyline does little to sustain the reader's interest because it is patchy and doesn't flow well (When Gere called it "a miracle of simplicity," he wasn't kidding!Something is clearly lost in translation here.). Although the author supposedly consulted many reliable resources, oddly very little of Pachen's story is put into historical context and few of the sources are used to draw insights into Tibet's situation.Considering the book committee's intentions, I would have expected to find a list of support organizations for Tibet in the appendices. Because of the sketchiness of the writing, it was difficult for me to find the book an inspiration, though other readers might find it so.Those looking for a story of spiritual stamina and female courage may enjoy Pachen's story, while those seeking a new perspective on Tibet should borrow it from a friend or a library rather than spending the money to buy it.Everyone else, just skip it.Sorry Richard, this one's not the great Tibetan novel, either.

The dream that could never die.
This book tells the remarkable story of Ani Panchen, a Tibetan nun, who led the resistance to the ruthless Red Chinese occupation of Tibet, after her father's death in 1958.
For 21 years she was imprisoned in hellish Chinese prison camps, only surviving because of her strong will and faith.
After her release she continued to lead the struggle against the Red Chinese occupation and genocide of Tibet's people. In 1988 she was forced into exile in India, where she has continued to devote her life to the dream of Tibetan freedom, even after it has been forgotten by the world.

She begins by her peaceful childhood in pre-occupation Tibet:
In 1950 she describes how "Our country was still at peace, though on the eastern bank of the Yangtze River Chinese troops were gathering. In a few short years, they would sweep over my country, changing it forever. In the name of liberating Tibet from 'imperialist' powers they would destroy monasteries, plunder homes, burn sacred texts, and drive our people to poverty and despair."
Babies were removed from their parents in their thousands to be relocated to Red Chinese 're-education' centers were they were to be brought up in Communist doctrine. Over a million Tibetans were to be anihilated in the Chinese holocaust that followed, and even the animal life of Tibet destroyed in order to force the Tibetans to give up their reverence for life.
Ani Panchen tells of her experiences fleeing from Red Chinese forces, and of seeing small Tibetan children gunned down by Chinese snipers.
It also tells of Panchen's deep Tibetan Buddhist faith underpinned by her will to 'Let all beings be free of suffering, let all being find peace.'
While the book hopes to expose the horrors of the Chinese destruction of Tibet, in actions paralleling those of the Nazis during World War II, Richard Gere in his forward expresses his wish this book may help to "dispel the darkness of this darkest night of Tibetan history and be of benefit to all beings everywhere".
Will the world re-awaken to the suffering of the Tibetan people mand the destruction of their civilization, and not least their dream of the re-birth of their culture and self-determination.

Great story but poorly written
I gave this book four stars because this book is a story that people should know.It is the true story of an amazing Tibetan woman who shows strength and courage in unimaginable situations.My problem with this book is that it is poorly written.It could have been an amazing book as well as an amazing story."Autobiography of a Tibetan Monk" by Palden Gyatso is still the best I have read on the Tibetan people.

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Word count: 1979. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from St. James Encyclopedia of Popular Culture, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 546 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Signed essays ranging from 500 to 2,500 words, written by subject experts and edited to form a consistent, readable, and straightforward reference. Entries include subject-specific bibliographies and textual cross-references to related essays. ... Read more

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AARP... 1-2/2005... Richard Gere cover... Start Dating... Pill Free Pain Relief.. ... Read more

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Chapters: Elizabeth Taylor, Sharon Stone, Rosie O'donnell, Stephen Donaldson, Bono, Ryan White, Magic Johnson, Richard Gere, Liev Schreiber, Pedro Zamora, Mstislav Rostropovich, Bobby Shriver, Elton John, Shilpa Shetty, Kathy Griffin, Larry Kramer, Natasha Richardson, Tony Kushner, Stephen Lewis, Famke Janssen, Paul Farmer, Hu Jia, Justin Hayford, Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, Tamsin Wilton, Salman Ahmad, Jennifer Jako, Joseph Sonnabend, Mary Fisher, Suzanne Engo, Mark Barnes, Rosa Martínez and Eliana Martínez, Zackie Achmat, Lisa Edelstein, Paddy Chew, Gao Yaojie, Iman, Sheryl Lee Ralph, David B. Feinberg, Paul Michael Glaser, James Molinaro, Glen Maxey, Gideon Byamugisha, Jonathan Mann, Ntare Mwine, Suzy Becker, Cleve Jones, Jurnee Smollett, Vicci Laine, Richard Feachem, Sheila Tlou, Issan Dorsey, Peter Piot, Ilka Tanya Payán, Hank Wilson, John Roman Baker, Sean Strub, B.j. Stiles, Joel Weisman, Stephen Gendin, Joel Gustave Nana Ngongang, Margaret Nichols, Mechai Viravaidya, Nkosi Johnson, Simo Ben Bachir, Geoffrey Bowers, Anne-Christine D'adesky, Vito Russo, Michael Callen, John Duran, Martin Delaney, Henry Nicols, Eric Rofes, Karen Dior, Brownie Mary, Simon Nkoli, Luke Montgomery, Didier Lestrade, Rebekka Armstrong, Elizabeth Glaser, Enkyo Pat O'hara, Mariela Castro, Joey Dipaolo, Avram Finkelstein, Alexandra Govere, Paula Donovan, Richard Berkowitz, Jeannette Kagame, Mark Josephson, Marvelyn Brown, Larry Kessler, Herbert de Souza, Mary Elizabeth Clark, Lorrie Sprecher, Noerine Kaleeba, Tom Kalin, Wangdu, Wan Yanhai, Mathilde Krim, Alison Gertz, Philly Lutaaya, Jorge Saavedra, Tomás Fabregas, Chris Oyler, Kemba Smith Foundation, Susan Bluestein, Peter Jepson-Young, Denise Main, Rod Michano, Ray Brothers, Bobbi Campbell, Zhou Dan, Mark de Solla Price, Beatrice Were, Kristine Gebbie, Phill Wilson, Bob Hattoy, Vineeta Rastogi, Barbara Samson, Steve Michael, Lieve Fransen, Elisabeth Rosenthal, Elizabeth Mataka, Carol Leigh,...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=5052197 ... Read more