The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie

When this reader picked up The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie, at first I was tickled by the idea of the Dalai Lama having a cat!  The cat in question is a Himalayan female named Snow Lion. A stray kitten, spotted personally by the Dalai Lama on the side of the road and immediately adopted. This book is the first in a series of three, followed by The Art of Purring and The Power of Meow. The series is a delightful read, written in first person from the viewpoint of Snow Lion.  More than a mere diary, they provide a fascinating insight into the daily life of His Holiness. His staff, his residence (which is both home and office), Buddhist teachings and many of the famous visitors His Holiness receives are all detailed in these stories.

Being a cat, Snow Lion is curious and spends time each day with other locals who live in Dharamsala. These books also offer atmospheric narrative on life in the town, and the other residents who were drawn to take up permanent residency there and open small businesses.

As she has the privilege of living with His Holiness, Snow Lion ponders the meaning of life, happiness, meditation and other Buddhist teachings, taught directly to her by His Holiness.

Recommended for cat and animal lovers, and anyone interested in Buddhism, which is gently and unobtrusively delivered.

You can find the entire series in the SMSA Library.

The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie in the SMSA Library

Belinda Coombs
SMSA Mystery and Crime Reading Group Member