In her exotic new home, the Dalai Lama’s cat encounters Hollywood stars, Buddhist masters, Ivy-league professors, famous philanthropists, and a host of other people who come visiting His Holiness. One thing I hadn’t counted on was how engaged readers would become in the life of His Holiness’s Cat – or HHC, to give her official title.

Does the Dalai Lama really have a cat? – David Michie Does the Dalai Lama really have a cat? – David Michie

Most of us would agree that it requires willpower to graduate from school, learn a skill, or practice anything till you get really good at it. How I was rescued from a fate too grisly to contemplate, to become constant companion to a man who is not only one of the world’s greatest spiritual leaders and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, but who is also a dab hand with the can opener. When I heard that the Dalai Lama once had a cat, being a pet lover myself, I immediately though of what an amazing life the cat must have. But as our little Bodhicatva is taken into the household of the Dalai Lama (“she must have a very close karmic connection to him”) and starts to learn, so do I by reading.

Among the unexpected joys I have felt, writing this series, has been to discover how much little HHC, Snow Lion, or Rinpoche – she is a cat of many names – and the cast of characters around her, have engaged reader’s hearts as well as minds. The only sadness I had was when I came to the end of the series…how I wish I could learn more from little Snow Lion. Having already a profound and fulfilling connection with my own feline friend, I have observed a further deepening in our shared moments while reading this book. A very entertaining dip into Buddhist thinking through the eyes of a cat, not just any cat, but the Dalai Lama’s cat.

The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie Review: The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie

I start work by 6 AM so I can be at the nursing home with my mom at dinnertime each night) Please do not stop adding to this series so I can continue to learn from one of my favorite cats and continue down the path of enlightenment. If you believe that cats have many lessons to teach us, reading this enchanting book will be a transformational experience for you. The Dalai Lama understands her moment of weakness but encourages her not to give up on herself as the buddhas haven’t given up on her. Featuring a delightful cast of characters, timeless Buddhist wisdom, and His Holiness’s compassion pervading every chapter, The Dalai Lama’s Cat is simply enchanting.Unfortunately the community I live in does not have any Buddhist centres where I can learn in person.

The unexpected joy of writing The Dalai Lama’s Cat series The unexpected joy of writing The Dalai Lama’s Cat series

My book, Buddhism for Pet Lovers – English title – has also recently been published in Italian: https://www. HHC witnesses conversations between the Dalai Lama and the world’s most powerful people — the Queen of Bhutan, unnamed actresses, businessmen to name a few. Her arresting blue eyes capture the enigmatic persona of her master as he mitigates problems with his characteristic chuckle, sense of humour and wisdom.

The first time, I saw him appear at Washington National Cathedral on the first anniversary of September 11. The nature of their various jobs had the same net effect: having to deal with enormous volumes of non-fiction as part of their working life meant that when it came to the weekend, or going on holiday, the last thing they wanted to do was read yet more non-fiction. For years, Dalai Lama’s Cat fans have been asking if there’s to be a fourth book – and HHC (His Holiness’s Cat) has been working her paws to the bone.

The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie - Dear Author REVIEW: The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie - Dear Author

My sincere thanks to each and every one of you who voted, commented and offered insights on the different options I shared a month ago. I wasn’t quite as sure about the comparison to hair balls and self obsession but if it works for HHC (His Holiness’s Cat), then okay. In listening to him speak with one of his guests, she hears about the “true cause” of happiness meaning one that can be relied on to always work.She enjoys historical romance/fiction best, likes contemporaries, action- adventure and mysteries, will read suspense if there's no TSTL characters and is currently reading more fantasy and SciFi. Dolce mio learns that if she doesn’t focus on herself but gives happy meows and licks, she gets blissful grooming.