Matthew T. Kapstein
In recent decades we have seen illuminating new studies of literacy, scribal practice, and publication in many cultural spheres. Yet one of the most remarkable of book cultures, Tibet, has remained outside the purview of all but a narrow group of specialists. With this nuanced and graceful account, Kurtis R. Schaeffer introduces a broad readership to the scholars and monks, princes and poets who sustained for a millennium the publication and distribution of books across the length and breadth of the Tibetan high plateau. The Culture of the Book in Tibet is essential reading for all who are interested in the written word.
Jose Ignacio Cabezon
The Culture of the Book in Tibet is a fabulous introduction to the religious significance of books in the Tibetan cultural world. Kurtis R. Schaeffer not only tells us what Tibetan intellectuals have had to say about the practice of writing, he also explores the material and economic dimensions of literary production and explains the process that led to the compilation and organization of important collections, including the 'canons.' In the first broad treatment of 'the book' in Tibetan culture, Schaeffer sets the agenda for all future research on this important topic. A truly fascinating and groundbreaking work.
José Ignacio Cabezón
The Culture of the Book in Tibet is a fabulous introduction to the religious significance of books in the Tibetan cultural world. Kurtis R. Schaeffer not only tells us what Tibetan intellectuals have had to say about the practice of writing, he also explores the material and economic dimensions of literary production and explains the process that led to the compilation and organization of important collections, including the 'canons.' In the first broad treatment of 'the book' in Tibetan culture, Schaeffer sets the agenda for all future research on this important topic. A truly fascinating and groundbreaking work.
— José Ignacio Cabezón, XIVth Dalai Lama Endowed Chair in Tibetan Buddhism and Cultural Studies, University of California, Santa Barbara
Janet Gyatso
This marks a big step forward for the cultural history of Tibet. The volume is rich with details and vignettes that in the end allow us to put together a history of Tibetan Buddhism in an altogether novel—and most revealing—way. Fascinating reading for anyone interested in Tibet, the Buddhist world, or the world of books.
— Janet Gyatso, Harvard University
Cynthia Brokaw
Written by one of the leading scholars of Tibet and Tibetan Buddhism in the country, The Culture of the Book in Tibet is very timely, contributing to a lively field while drawing attention to the distinctive historical contribution of Tibetan texts and writing.
— Cynthia Brokaw, Ohio State University
