The 14th Dalai Lama: A Manga Biography

Title: The 14th Dalai Lama: A Manga Biography
Author & Illustrator: Tetsu Saiwai

ISBN: 978-0-14-311815-2

Publisher: Penguin Books

Copyright Date: 2010

Genre: Manga

Reading Level/Interest Age: 15-18

Awards: Booklist, 2010.

Plot Summary: This manga story succeeds at making a historical biography entertaining and informative. I found this tale to be quite dramatic in both text and illustration. Readers learn immediately that when the 13th Dalai Lama passes away, they must go and locate the new one immediately. Saiwai does a good job of providing enough information and back story for those that are not familiar with the culture and traditions surrounding the Dalai Lama – including the meaning of the words Dalai Lama, important dates and important places. It soon becomes clear that this biography is from the perspective of the Dalai Lama himself which adds even more intrigue.

Critical Evaluation: The black and white illustrations are drawn in typical graphic novel fashion. Each illustration depicted in varying size boxes and displayed in panels. Saiwai uses maps, up close facial expressions and panned out scenery shots to ensure that readers are viewing multiple perspectives. The characters themselves are drawn quite simplistically in typical japanese comic style. Saiwai makes great use of shading to add depth and dimension to his illustrations.

Reader's Annotation: A manga biography about the leader of Tibet – the 14th Dalai Lama.

Booktalking Ideas: History, Tibet

Why did you include this book: This books serves as an informative introduction to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan world history.