5 stars for intent, 3 stars for writing (which I think is partially due to the fact that he's working through a translator) so it settles out at a 4, but probably closer to 3.5. Much of it is as much about the Dalai Lama's own experiences meeting with world religious leaders as it is about ways that different religious adherents can come together through the values of compassion and respect. Interfaith dialogue (as well as dialogue with atheists and agnostics) is crucial for the world today, and though I think that the problem of interfaith conflict is more complicated than he presents it here as well as discuss more about engaging with atheists, this book does a good job of identifying some of the issues and proposing solutions that are based on reason. This was a happy read and one that really touched my heart. While at times the Dalai Lama lost me with references to friends and acquaintances, he touched me with his pure wisdom and kind heart. I can see why so many revere him as the guru and teacher that he has guided so many on their path to faith. I think what's the most enlightening in this book is the similarities in our faiths and that that shouldn't be something that separates us but brings us together.
Great ideas, but following all of the names in Eastern Religion is hard to do! I love the premise!
—awsnapp
Our similarities and what we have in common far outweigh our petty differences.
—oryxxx
That I have to buy my own copy of this book!
—Amia