This is a Dorling Kindersley book, so it is half text and half photographs, most taken by the author, a Westerner married to a Tibetan woman. Extensive space is given to the schools and leaders of Tibetan Buddhism, as well as to the practices of both religious and lay practitioners. The effect of the Chinese invasion and occupation on Tibetan life and worship is a central focus throughout the book, as is the diaspora and the resulting worldwide spread of Tibetan Buddhist practice. A beautiful look at an endangered way of life. ( )