The Dalai Lama, seen regularly on television and in the company of celebrities, should be a familiar face to young people. But readers might be astounded to learn his story, especially his early life when it was discerned, through signs and tests, that the little boy from a remote Tibetan village was the fourteenth incarnation of the Dalai Lama. The book then continues chronologically, explaining the conflict between Tibet and China, and how, as Tibet's political as well as religious leader, the Dalai Lama was forced to make difficult choices regarding his country, eventually fleeing to India. Over the last 50 years, he's met with world leaders to pressure China into allowing Tibet to have at least some autonomy, but to no real success. Still, the Dalai Lama's message of peace and universality has spread throughout the world. Part of the People in the News series, this uses many quotes from the Dalai Lama's own writings. Sidebars add heft with information about people and events, and well-chosen photos and source notes round out the package. Grades 5-8. -Ilene Cooper

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