Personal reminiscences of an esteemed Tibetan Buddhist master, ranging from touching memoir to humorous storytelling, from sharp cultural commentary to deeply felt verse--illustrated with rare photos in full color.

Illustrated with color photos published for the first time, this collage of reminiscences affords a rare glimpse into the life of an esteemed Tibetan Buddhist teacher. The author sets a magical mood as he describes his early years in "Snowland" (Tibet) as one of seven children of a renowned Nyingma master. Thinley Norbu Rinpoche's storytelling alternates earthy humor with poetic sensitivity and tender sensuality. Describing his travels in Asia, Europe, and America, he presents thumbnail sketches of people and places, as well as sharp-sighted commentary on Western cultural trends and Dharma students' positive and negative qualities. More than just an autobiography, this written offering is an expression of Rinpoche's wisdom, compassion, and personal realization.

Brief Fantasy History of a Himalayan: Autobiographical Reflections (Paperback), Thinley Norbu, Shambhala Publications, Paperback, 112 pages, $24.95

Thinley Norbu (1931-2011) was a prominent teacher of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, revered as an emanation of the fourteenth-century master Longchenpa. A scholar and prolific author, a poet and a dancer, a spiritual friend and master teacher, Kyabje Thinley Norbu Rinpoche was beloved by many devoted students in the West and Asia. His books include The Small Golden Key, The Sole Panacea, White Sail, Magic Dance, and A Cascading Waterfall of Nectar.