Gesar of Ling: A Bardic Tale from the Snow Land of Tibet

Finally a book that shows why the Gesar epic has continued as an oral tradition for centuries: it is a great story! Previous translations seem to have been aimed towards scholars or Buddhist practitioners, while this version focuses on the story. There is enough background given so that non-scholars and non-Buddhists can follow along with the various magical beings and extraordinary events, and the Tibetan culture is made more understandable through the use of proverbs in both the conversations of the characters and the songs that form the core of the story. The result is very readable - a page turner even. This book is based on the first 3 volumes of the epic - and since there are currently at least 120 volumes extant there shouldn't be too much difficulty coming up with a sequel!

A lively and often humorous recounting of the life and adventures of Gesar of Ling. The stories of this Tibetan hero, little known in the West, offer insights into the wisdom and magic of an often mysterious people and culture. Mr. Shapiro's loose and readable writing style is just the right format to present this free wheeling epic to curious readers. Recommended and looking forward to more.