This beautifully illustrated chronicle presents an in-depth, firsthand narrative of the Dalai Lama's life story and the Tibetan saga. From remembrances of those close to him, and a treasure trove of over 400 images of Tibet's priceless visual heritage, it preserves a record of what it was like to create a nation from nothing, in exile, and how His Holiness rallied endlessly for his people. A rich blend of biography, history, and legacy, it captures a detailed account of the tumultuous events through which the Dalai Lama was forced to chart a path, leading to his emergence as an international figure. It illuminates as well his initiatives in the wider world to relieve suffering, overcome global challenges, and foster human flourishing through compassionate universal ethics, working hand in hand with science and ingenuity. Tendzin Choegyal was thirteen years old when he accompanied his elder brother, the Dalai Lama--twenty-three at the time--on his dangerous 1959 escape to India. Decades later, he began encouraging his lifelong personal friend, Tenzin Geyche Tethong--for forty years His Holiness' personal aide--to record their people's journey. As "elders" in the Tibetan community, they have collaborated with photo archivist Jane Moore and a creative team to produce a memorable, comprehensive, and close-up portrait. It offers, in these uncertain times, an uplifting retrospective of an iconic leader, a heritage, a cause, and a creative vision that have won the attention and hearts of people around the world.

The photographs are rare and superb. The stories are fresh and beautifully told. I was transported. I love this book." -Richard Gere This biography of the Dalai Lama--blessed by His Holiness himself--is the most authentic and intimate profile of the world's greatest living spiritual figure. Tenzin Geyche Tethong, a close aide of His Holiness for forty years who became family, offers readers unprecedented access to the Dalai Lama in this beautifully illustrated book. The Dalai Lama's youngest brother, Ngari Rinpoche Tenzin Choegyal, who was only 12 years old when he accompanied His Holiness on his dangerous 1959 escape to India, is a personal friend of Tethong and the mentor for this book project. As "elders" to the Tibetan community in exile, these men have come together to tell the true story of His Holiness--their brother, friend, and leader. Featuring previously unpublished photographs, as well as interviews and memories of those closes