This is a powerful novel that tells the tale of the Tibetan people's fight for
freedom. The non-violent Tibetans rise up against the Chinese army which invaded
their country in 1959, even if they lack sophisticated weapons and training. The
triumph of the human spirit is portrayed through the adventures of Siva -- the
hero of this novel, who dares to face every challenge life throws at him. Siva
absolves his fellow men from the narrow ties of nation, ethnicity, and region
and from private attachments. He devotes himself to the pursuit of the free
human spirit. Siva hears the stern call of absolute freedom. The