What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dalai Lama: An Extraordinary Life
The first authoritative biography of the Dalai Lama—a story by turns inspiring and shocking—from an acclaimed Tibetan scholar with exceptional access to his subject.
The Dalai Lama’s message of peace and compassion resonates with people of all faiths and none. Yet, for all his worldwide fame, he remains personally elusive. At last Alexander Norman—acclaimed Oxford-trained scholar of the history of Tibet—delivers the definitive, unique, unforgettable biography.
The Dalai Lama recounts an astonishing odyssey from isolated Tibetan village to worldwide standing as spiritual and political leader of one of the world’s most profound and complex cultural traditions. Norman reveals that, while the Dalai Lama has never been comfortable with his political position, he has been a canny player—at one time CIA-backed—who has maneuvered amidst pervasive violence, including placing himself at the center of a dangerous Buddhist schism. Yet even more surprising than the political, Norman convinces, is the Dalai Lama’s astonishing spiritual practice, rooted in magic, vision, and prophecy—details of which are illuminated in this book for the first time.
A revelatory life story of one of today’s most radical, charismatic, and beloved world leaders.
The Dalai Lama’s message of peace and compassion resonates with people of all faiths and none. Yet, for all his worldwide fame, he remains personally elusive. At last Alexander Norman—acclaimed Oxford-trained scholar of the history of Tibet—delivers the definitive, unique, unforgettable biography.
The Dalai Lama recounts an astonishing odyssey from isolated Tibetan village to worldwide standing as spiritual and political leader of one of the world’s most profound and complex cultural traditions. Norman reveals that, while the Dalai Lama has never been comfortable with his political position, he has been a canny player—at one time CIA-backed—who has maneuvered amidst pervasive violence, including placing himself at the center of a dangerous Buddhist schism. Yet even more surprising than the political, Norman convinces, is the Dalai Lama’s astonishing spiritual practice, rooted in magic, vision, and prophecy—details of which are illuminated in this book for the first time.
A revelatory life story of one of today’s most radical, charismatic, and beloved world leaders.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published July 2, 2015
183 people are currently reading
723 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 13, 2020
It's tough business writing the biography of anyone who is still alive. It's even more difficult when the subject in question is a religious figure, and one held in such high esteem, who is said to be a chosen incarnation.
The author, who has collaborated with his subject on the latter's own memoirs and assisted him with speech-writing, speaks no Tibetan. However, he is also to draw from a closer relationship with the 14th Dalai Lama and more recent English-language scholarship and other published memoirs.
Norman starts with the life of the 13th Dalai Lama (1876-1933), a savvy political operator who was concerned about Tibetan independence and feared being conquered by an outside power. His successor was deified at age 4, and until age 15 he lived under the shadow of court intrigue. He fled the country at 23.
The book takes two tracks - the Dalai Lama's personal and religious life. On the former, Norman is respectful and positive, but not worshipful. He admits his subject's own missteps, his awkward moments, and does not hesitate to discuss subjects of some controversy (political entanglements, blunt statements on homosexuality, accepting visits from more disreputable figures).
On the more esoteric world of Tibetan Buddhism, Norman writes fluidly. While I cannot comment on the more technical details of the Gelug school or Buddhist philosophy in general, Norman has the rare gift of writing about religious life and belief systems seriously, without the needless mystifying religion or insulting those who do believe. He writes on the Dorje Shugden controversy in a fair-handed way.
In short, a fair and even-handed book, and one that keeps in mind the prophecies and problems of the future.
The author, who has collaborated with his subject on the latter's own memoirs and assisted him with speech-writing, speaks no Tibetan. However, he is also to draw from a closer relationship with the 14th Dalai Lama and more recent English-language scholarship and other published memoirs.
Norman starts with the life of the 13th Dalai Lama (1876-1933), a savvy political operator who was concerned about Tibetan independence and feared being conquered by an outside power. His successor was deified at age 4, and until age 15 he lived under the shadow of court intrigue. He fled the country at 23.
The book takes two tracks - the Dalai Lama's personal and religious life. On the former, Norman is respectful and positive, but not worshipful. He admits his subject's own missteps, his awkward moments, and does not hesitate to discuss subjects of some controversy (political entanglements, blunt statements on homosexuality, accepting visits from more disreputable figures).
On the more esoteric world of Tibetan Buddhism, Norman writes fluidly. While I cannot comment on the more technical details of the Gelug school or Buddhist philosophy in general, Norman has the rare gift of writing about religious life and belief systems seriously, without the needless mystifying religion or insulting those who do believe. He writes on the Dorje Shugden controversy in a fair-handed way.
In short, a fair and even-handed book, and one that keeps in mind the prophecies and problems of the future.
March 9, 2020
As a devourer of books by and about His Holiness the Dalai Lama (HHDL), I was hoping for more depth, or, at least some new perspectives on major events. Above all, I was hoping for more insight into HHDLs state of mind and more details about his thoughts on various critical decisions and judgements. Instead, in recounting key moments there is just speculation on what HHDL might have thought or recalled. I was hoping that author Alexander Norman, because of his close association with HHDL, would have been able to just ask HH and share the answers with us. This is my greatest disappointment with this biography. Unfortunately, as a scholarly work, it doesn’t add anything major to the outline of Tibetan history that has been laid down in previous accounts. And it contains few new insights into the boy and man that is this most remarkable and unique human being. Its emphasis is on Tibetan political history with a justifiable highlighting of palace intrigue and the intense political struggles that have shaped what we know of as the institution of the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama comes across as an honest accounting, forthright even. There is no shortage of unflattering anecdotes about the failings of the Tibetan leadership, or, even HHDL's occasional fallibility.
Sad to report, there is not a ton of new information here for readers of prior books, such as Freedom in Exile. Expect some novel insights, some minor new twists, and many helpful explanations. But for a reader exploring Tibetan history for the first time, this is a book you can trust.
Sad to report, there is not a ton of new information here for readers of prior books, such as Freedom in Exile. Expect some novel insights, some minor new twists, and many helpful explanations. But for a reader exploring Tibetan history for the first time, this is a book you can trust.
February 21, 2020
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.
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.
did-not-finish
February 29, 2020I feel bad giving this a bad review given its subject matter. All I’m going to say is- read the Dalaï Lama’s autobiography Freedom in Exile instead of this.
April 18, 2020
Actually, I couldn't finish this book. Life is too short. I wanted to like it but this was a lot of heavy reading. Just too much history for me.
August 3, 2024
The book is filled with interesting history and personal anecdotes. It was a good read but can be a bit challenging at times because the author’s lack of objectivity. Despite this, it’s still an inspiring look at the Dalai Lama’s journey, struggles, and incredible resilience.
December 9, 2021
unvarnished account of tibet and the present dalai lama and his times. lots of interesting details.
September 18, 2020
I liked this biography of the Dalai Lama. It's detailed and explores the religious arcana. The history of Tibet is unique in that things that happened in the distant past are still happening in real time, due to reincarnation. The Great Fifth Dalai Lama is still quite present in contemporary theological debates. The insight into the three main schools of Tibetan buddhism, the Kagyu, Nyingma and Gelug traditions, is enlightening, and it illustrates how the current Dalai Lama has worked hard to modernize his culture. Superstition and magic still play a big role, and for a non-dogmatic religion, there are an awful lot of gods, some of which are alive on earth.
The Dalai Lama has emphasized the importance of science, and designated Tibet as an environmental preserve. The conflict with China is explained in great detail. The relationship has changed over the years, as religion became more acceptable in China, and it is said that the Premier's wife is buddhist. Part of Tibet's long history is one of conquerors assimilating buddhism. As the Dalai Lama turns 70 today, there's a question of succession and the role that China will play in the Lama's succession, as well as the role of a future Dalai Lama in the Tibetan government in exile.
The Dalai Lama has emphasized the importance of science, and designated Tibet as an environmental preserve. The conflict with China is explained in great detail. The relationship has changed over the years, as religion became more acceptable in China, and it is said that the Premier's wife is buddhist. Part of Tibet's long history is one of conquerors assimilating buddhism. As the Dalai Lama turns 70 today, there's a question of succession and the role that China will play in the Lama's succession, as well as the role of a future Dalai Lama in the Tibetan government in exile.
May 12, 2022
Not knowing much of the Dalai Lama's life or the history of Tibet, I found the book an insightful context. One will not finish this book with much insight into the person of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, however. It's important to remember that the man is a monk and that most of his life has been spent in an inner journey and only recently did he find himself on the global stage. However, this book does credibly show how he moved from child to monk to outcast and earned his political authority. I feel however that I'd do better reading Wikipedia on the history of Tibet, the Dalai Lama's autobiography, and watching YouTube interviews.
abandoned
April 8, 2020I read about half the book. It covers in depth the environment in which the Dalai Lama lived in Tibet and India. There is much about his religious training and his tutors. I was not getting the sense of his personality and thinking. The part I read covered things that happen to him and choices he had to make as a leader. The book does seem to immerse the reader in the way of life and how the Dalai Lama is viewed by his people. It seems more overall historical rather than a personal biography which I was looking for.
June 1, 2020
The complexities and variations of Buddhism are such that it really would be helpful to have a primer on the religion as a preface to the Dalai Lama's story. Lacking that -- and given how inextricably linked the Tibet / Chinese relationship is with the Dalai Lama's life -- the book, while doing a good job working with these complex issues, left me wanting to know more about Dalai Lama the man.
August 21, 2020
More about Buddhism
Does not give much of a personal look at the precious protector. It did give some history and a lot of information on his religion and Tibet. Some of the stories about disputes between monasteries/followers of various teachers made good reading but much of the book is dry and use many Tibetan or Buddhist terms that are hard to follow.
Does not give much of a personal look at the precious protector. It did give some history and a lot of information on his religion and Tibet. Some of the stories about disputes between monasteries/followers of various teachers made good reading but much of the book is dry and use many Tibetan or Buddhist terms that are hard to follow.
Read
January 18, 2023This book is thoroughly researched and includes a variety of sources. It is not just informative for people familiar with Asia / Tibet but also interesting for general readers who want to know about the extraordinary personality His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The book traces his birth to the spiritual and educational growth of HH Tenzin Gyatso, and relates him to his previous reincarnation the 13th Dalai Lama as well as deities such as the Nechung oracle deity. The middle chapters discusses the controversy surrounding one of the previous protective deities that has recently been rejected by the 14th Dalai Lama. The insightful analysis and English narrative serves as a good vantage point for non-Vajrayana Buddhists to understand certain specific aspects of Vajrayana (Tibetan) Buddhism. The conclusion brings an element of hope in a war-torn world today--despite anti-Asian racism in recent years, the Dalai Lama serves as a rare example of true interfaith tolerance as well as a beacon of diversity and symbol of future equality. May peace prevail in the world and may the dharma spread further to different corners.
March 9, 2020
💖The Dalai Lama: An Extraordinary Life💖
For all his universal fame, the Dalai Lama remains personally elusive. Now, Alexander Norman, acclaimed scholar of the history of Tibet, delivers the definitive biography - unique, multilayered and, at times, even shocking The Dalai Lama recounts an astonishing odyssey from an isolated Tibetan village to worldwide standing as spiritual and political leader of one of the world's most profound and complex cultural traditions. This is the illuminating life story of one of today's most radical, charismatic, and beloved world leaders.
.
💖I am a fan of HHDL, I can't even express how much I respect him, his practice and devotion. This is an extraordinary biography, which made me realize he is much more superior than I ever thought and Norman's writing is so beautiful and descriptive at times. The book has a very rich vocabulary and if you are a beginner it might be difficult to get things at one go, also the rare pictures that it consists, they are so so beautiful. Read it in peace and read it slowly. Definitely recommended.
.
Rating: 4.75🌟
For all his universal fame, the Dalai Lama remains personally elusive. Now, Alexander Norman, acclaimed scholar of the history of Tibet, delivers the definitive biography - unique, multilayered and, at times, even shocking The Dalai Lama recounts an astonishing odyssey from an isolated Tibetan village to worldwide standing as spiritual and political leader of one of the world's most profound and complex cultural traditions. This is the illuminating life story of one of today's most radical, charismatic, and beloved world leaders.
.
💖I am a fan of HHDL, I can't even express how much I respect him, his practice and devotion. This is an extraordinary biography, which made me realize he is much more superior than I ever thought and Norman's writing is so beautiful and descriptive at times. The book has a very rich vocabulary and if you are a beginner it might be difficult to get things at one go, also the rare pictures that it consists, they are so so beautiful. Read it in peace and read it slowly. Definitely recommended.
.
Rating: 4.75🌟
July 25, 2020
The Dalai Lama’s message of peace and compassion resonates with people of all faiths and none. Yet, for all his worldwide fame, he remains personally elusive. At last Alexander Norman—acclaimed Oxford-trained scholar of the history of Tibet—delivers the definitive, unique, unforgettable biography.
Dalai Lama is the is the spiritual leader of Tibet and the beleiver of bodhisattva and peace, he dedicated his life for the people of Tibet. In 1989 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his non-violent struggle for the liberation of Tibet. He has consistently advocated policies of non-violence, even in the face of extreme aggression. This book mainly gives us in depth details of his life how a little boy from an isolated Tibetan village became the world's spiritual and political leader. He dedicated his life for reforms in the Tibet.
This book also has some beautiful pictures that showed his different sides too. This is one of the best detailed book on his life. Overall a wonderful read.
July 14, 2025
I picked up this book hoping to better understand His Holiness the Dalai Lama—his thoughts, emotions, and inner world. While the book covers many important events in his life, I was expecting more depth and personal insight. I wanted to feel connected to his mind—especially during key decisions and turning points. Unfortunately, I didn’t find it very engaging, as it felt more like a record of events than a true glimpse into his personality. For a figure as extraordinary as HHDL, I hoped for something more intimate and reflective.
#BookReview #DalaiLama #HisHoliness #AlexanderNorman #SpiritualBiographies #BooksOnFaith #NonFictionReads #BuddhismBooks #TibetHistory #MindfulReading #BookstagramIndia #BiographyReview #LifeOfDalaiLama #ReadingReflections #BooksThatMatter #harpercollins
#BookReview #DalaiLama #HisHoliness #AlexanderNorman #SpiritualBiographies #BooksOnFaith #NonFictionReads #BuddhismBooks #TibetHistory #MindfulReading #BookstagramIndia #BiographyReview #LifeOfDalaiLama #ReadingReflections #BooksThatMatter #harpercollins
June 30, 2020
This is a challenging read. Tibetan history of previous notable Dalai Lamas, especially the Great Thirteenth Dalai Lama. Cloak and dagger stories (some disturbing and quite graphic). Buddhist concepts, rituals and oracles. The CIA. War. Violence. Oppression. And the Fourteenth Dalai Lama’s extraordinary life set in this intense historical context. Suggestion to anyone starting it - there are two useful guides in the back pages. One, a summary of the Dalai Lamas. Second, a glossary of names and terms.
October 12, 2020
This was a challenging read but worth the time as I learned so much. I knew little about Tibet and the Dali Lamas life so the history was very interesting. At times I was overwhelmed with all the detail and distressing events and felt the need to skim through but then there would be a gem of information pertaining directly to the Dalai Lama or Buddhist practice so I persevered, not wanting to miss any of these.
April 14, 2020
'The Dalai Lama' by Alexander Norman was such an insightful read.
Starting with The Great Thirteenth, the author traces the birth and discovery, boyhood as well as the adulthood of the present Dalai Lama.
It was well written and vividly described the landscape, culture and lifestyle of the Tibetans.
Starting with The Great Thirteenth, the author traces the birth and discovery, boyhood as well as the adulthood of the present Dalai Lama.
It was well written and vividly described the landscape, culture and lifestyle of the Tibetans.
July 11, 2021
Biography written with real love, reverence, and a firm grounding in lots of complex subject matter - not just the Dalai Lama’s life, but all the contexts of Tibetan Buddhism, Chinese and Indian and global politics, and more. It was a tough read, maybe a case of great book at the wrong time for my flow (but with looming library deadlines), but I’d gladly revisit.
March 10, 2021
wow! This was a VERY difficult read. I am kids of/ sort of pretty well versed in the lineage of the succession of the Dalai Lama but the first 80 pages were a root canal to in-take. However, it gets better and I enjoyed the journey of the humble holy man.
December 30, 2021
I guess the religious culture was just too different from anything I have been exposed to and I just could not get into the Buddism. I was hoping to get to know the 14th Dalai Lama better than this book presented him, but perhaps that is a task that cannot be accomplished
April 14, 2022
بیشتر کتاب بر جنبه های سیاسی دالایی لاما پرداخته بود البته جالب بود
April 18, 2022
A different culture and polity impacted by geopolitics... Politics is same as everywhere and culture in parts fascinating and in parts repulsive
March 27, 2023
Very fact and history rich which is great for learning but tough to read through quickly
May 5, 2023
Interesting History of a truly gifted Individual
Read
October 18, 2023Fabulous. Truly an extraordinary life. Keep on spreading the word Dali Lama.
Read
December 5, 2023 see private notes
Read
May 12, 2024The print on this book is too small and it just didn’t strike me as the book that I want to read about the Dalai Lama
November 26, 2020
Having lived with the Tibetans in 1970 for 6 months in India this was fascinating. Of course I had no idea the history of the Dalai Lama in the past so it was a great read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews