In 1937, Tibet had been without a Dalai Lama for four years. The search for the successor to the 13th holder of that title, the political and religious leader of the tiny, secretive nation, led to the small village of Takster and a two-year-old named Lhamo Thondup. Kimmel’s narrative biography traces the early life of this important world leader from his designation as the Tibetan God-King through his education and early dealings with China to his breathtaking escape to India at 16 and the formation of his government-in-exile. The author clearly explains Tibetan history, life and customs as well as difficult terms and religious concepts. However, when the same words or confusing Tibetan names resurface, there is no glossary for forgetful readers to refer to. Similarly, there is a selected bibliography and list of online resources, but no foot- or endnotes for facts and quotations in the text. That said, this readable, accessible, at times page-turning account fills a gap in information on the life of H.H. the Dalai Lama for this age group. Final art (not seen) will include photographs with captions. (index) (Biography. 8-12)
