The Path of Dalai Lama: A Graphic Novel

by Tom Taylor, Matyáš Namai (illustrator)

Genres: Nonfiction

104 pages, Hardcover

Published October 21, 2025

About the author

Once a professional juggler and fire eater, Tom Taylor is a #1 New York Times Bestselling, multi-award-winning comic book writer, playwright and screenwriter.

Well known for his work with DC Comics and Marvel, Taylor is the co-creator of NEVERLANDERS from Penguin Random House, SEVEN SECRETS from Boom Studios and the Aurealis-Award-winning graphic novel series THE DEEP. Taylor is also the Head Writer and Executive Producer of The Deep animated series, four seasons of which is broadcast in over 140 countries.

He is perhaps best known for the DC Comics series, DCEASED (Shadow Awards Winner), NIGHTWING (nominated for 5 Eisner Awards), SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL (GLAAD Award Nominee), INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US, SUICIDE SQUAD, EARTH 2 and BATMAN/SUPERMAN as well as Marvel's FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN, ALL NEW WOLVERINE, X-MEN: RED, DARK AGES and SUPERIOR IRON MAN. Taylor is also the writer of many Star Wars series, which include STAR WARS: INVASION and STAR WARS: BLOOD TIES (Stan Lee Excelsior Award winner). Taylor has written for Marvel, DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, IDW Publishing, Boom Studios, Wildstorm, 2000 AD and Gestalt Comics.

He can be followed on twitter @TomTaylorMade.

Reviews

[Ginger · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Path of Dalai Lama by Tom Taylor provides readers, not only an insightful biography but an important history. A history of the relentless pursuit of freedom of the Tibetan people from oppression.

This graphic novel is an essential piece to read in aiding understanding of not only Buddhism but the attempts of governments to erase history, to erase culture. The depiction of the methods of oppression is raw, it is succinct and visceral. I believe it to be incredibly successful at achieving an accurate understanding of events, and as such, it will leave you feeling deeply moved.

Tom Taylor does not fear a complex presentation of His Holiness, delving into the overwhelming transition of lifestyle and the emotional turmoil that accompanied. The addition of the internal monologues detailing the emotional turmoil of the Dalai Lama added an important dimension of almost tangible vulnerability to the events of his life.

Matyás Namai’s illustrations were not only beautifully intricate but extremely emotive. Especially through use of the colour palette, the art expressed the tone which is exactly what I love in a graphic novel.

I studied Buddhism for 2 years at A Level, so I began with a knowledge of the 14th Dalai Lama’s life as well as the teachings of Buddhism. An in depth history of Tibet was not an area I was educated on. I am amazed by the structure of The Path of Dalai Lama, I found it very informative without being dense or requiring extensive prior knowledge. This is a huge strength as it can be an enormous barrier to entry into non-fiction.

Thank you to NetGalley, Tom Taylor and Gemini Books for the ARC.

[Ankit Saxena · Rating 5 out of 5]

A luminous, unforgettable work.

'The Path of Dalai Lama: A Graphic Novel' by Tom Taylor is a masterpiece that blends art, spirituality and history into one profoundly moving experience. From the very first page, it takes readers on a soul-stirring journey through the life of His Holiness "The Dalai Lama" — capturing not just the man but the enduring light of compassion and peace that he represents.

Tom Taylor’s storytelling is deeply respectful and eloquent. He portrays the Dalai Lama’s early years, his spiritual awakening and his painful exile with rare emotional honesty. The writing gracefully bridges the intimate and the global — offering insight into Tibet’s cultural richness, its struggle for survival, and the Dalai Lama’s unwavering belief in non-violence, tough he keeps raising voice for his own people unlike Gandhi.

The artwork deserves equal praise. Each frame is visually enchanting, balancing the grandeur of the Himalayas with the quiet dignity of the Tibetan people. The colors, symbolism and fluid narrative design give life to Taylor’s words in a way that lingers long after the last page.

And in this journey, shines a gentle tribute to India — the land that opened its heart and arms, giving the Dalai Lama a home, and Tibet a haven. Through India’s guardianship, a culture found refuge, a faith found continuity and humanity found its better self. Taylor’s quiet gratitude toward this gesture is both poignant and profound.
This particularly touching aspect of this book is its acknowledgment of India’s extraordinary role in safeguarding Tibetan culture is a very thankful gesture. The author beautifully conveys heartful gratitude towards India — the land that offered sanctuary to his Holiness Dalai Lama and countless Tibetans, ensuring that their heritage, language and faith could continue to thrive in peace. This act of compassion by India stands as a shining example of humanity and solidarity. Where China was invading Tibetan territory by force and whole including fake super power USA took China's side rather than fighting for what is right for Humanity and world.

In essence, 'The Path of Dalai Lama' is not just a graphic novel — it’s a spiritual journey, a history lesson and a tribute to resilience. A must-read for anyone who believes in peace, empathy and the timeless connection between nations and souls. It leaves you humbled, uplifted and deeply aware that compassion, when truly lived, can transcend every border drawn by man.

My NetGalley review

[Xine Segalas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Path of Dalai Lama is a beautifully made and surprisingly accessible graphic biography of Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. The storytelling is clear and grounded, the pacing just right — I was pulled in within a few pages.
As someone who’s been meditating daily for over four years and has explored Buddhism and Daoism through talks and guided practices, a lot of the teachings here were familiar — but the way they were presented made them feel newly alive. The visual rendering of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path really stood out. The use of symbolism, layout, and color brought clarity and depth that hit beyond words.
The artwork throughout is extraordinary. Illustrated by Matyáš Namai, it blends precise ligne claire drawing with mid-century design and Tibetan sacred art to create a calm, thoughtful visual language. Two images still stay with me: the Wheel of Dharma and a quiet moment of watering flowers. Both are simple, but say a lot about patience, compassion, and quiet growth.
What also struck me was how well it balances the spiritual teachings with the history — the religion, the exile, the cultural survival. It’s a complex story, but this book makes it approachable and deeply human. And it’s not just well-researched — it was created with the approval of the Dalai Lama himself. The final pages show him with the author and illustrator, holding the book — a powerful reminder of just how personal and accurate this work is.
It’s perfect for students, teachers, spiritual seekers, and anyone drawn to thoughtful visual storytelling. I’d recommend it for middle school readers and up — it’s clear enough for young readers but layered enough for adults to return to.
Thanks to NetGalley and Gemini Books for the early opportunity to read and review this thoughtful and beautifully illustrated work.

[Anne Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tom Taylor’s The Path of the Dalai Lama is a thoughtful, visually compelling graphic biography that traces the spiritual and political journey of one of the world’s most enduring figures of peace. With clarity and reverence, it captures the young Tenzin Gyatso’s transformation into the 14th Dalai Lama, his exile from Tibet, and his unwavering message of compassion amid conflict.

The art complements the narrative with grace—evoking not just historical moments, but emotional depth. Without oversimplifying complex geopolitics, the book remains accessible to younger readers while resonating with adults. It’s less a hagiography and more a human portrait—timely, inspiring, and quietly powerful.

[Maria Ti · Rating 4 out of 5]

📿 The fight without a fight. This graphic novel follows the story of the 14th Dalai Lama and reminds us of the horrors of the past. It's a hard pill to swallow for many, as it involves a violent takeover and an erasure of a rich culture.

📿 Colors of a culture sweep through. The artist chose a color palette reminiscent of old Tibetan styles, rich in reds and yellows, with accents of blues and greens. It's also interesting how the colors show passion and violence, peace and conflict at the same time.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written and illustrated account of the Dalai Lama's life and ongoing work. The author did a great job of detailing historical events without making it confusing, or oversimplified. The illustrations were vibrant, and I sometimes found myself sitting with a page long after I'd read it, just taking everything in.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I'm grateful to have come across this one, I know I'll be reading this again soon.

[Crimson Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, Netgalley, for an advanced readers copy of this graphic novel for an honest review.

In this graphic novel, we are taken on an adventure through this religion and also the Tibetan people fighting in their own way for freedom and against oppression, & it helps you to know more about the practice so for me this was a very enjoyable read.

[Jenn Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much information and it is a bit wordy for a comic, but I both loved this book and had my heart broken. I am very familiar with the story of His Holiness, but this had a focus on his childhood which gave this a very different perspective. I learned so much and can't wait to read it again so I can catch everything. Even though this book is incredibly sad, it does have a hopeful tone. Which just really captures the Dalai Lama's spirit.

5 stars