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A Story of Karma: Finding Love and Truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya
WINNER of the 2021 Readers Favorite Book Award (Non-Fiction Adventure)
In 2012, Michael Schauch and his wife, Chantal, undertook an expedition deep in the Himalaya of northern Nepal, into a remote valley that had been closed off to outsiders for decades. They led a team of artists (a photographer, a musician, and a painter), with the objective of capturing a moment in time through their unique lenses. As a mountaineering fanatic, Michael had a second (and less conspicuous) goal to climb an unknown mountain he had only identified through a photograph. What unfolded in the mountains forced him to question his values and his own identity, and eventually resulted in meeting a little girl, which was the most profound encounter of his life. Little did either know that from that moment they would completely change the trajectory of each other’s life.
A Story of Karma recounts this journey, and the years that follow as Karma (the little girl), and Michael and Chantal grow their lives together amidst the complex dichotomies and backdrop of Karma’s 17th-century Himalayan village; the impoverished and polluted Kathmandu; and the modern world of Vancouver, Canada.
"This story is a testament to the power each and every one of us has to generate meaningful and lasting change in our beleaguered world.”
— Jan Redford, author of End of the Rope: Mountains, Marriage, and Motherhood
“An inspiration to all as we set out again to explore the world of spirit, culture and adventure.”
— Wade Davis, author of several books including Magdalena: River of Dreams, and Into the Silence
“The combination of detail and wonder that one looks for in the best travel writing." — Kirkus Reviews
"★★★★★ A Story of Karma is a heartwarming and touching tale about fate and what happens when you let go and follow your heart into the unknown. I'm sure anyone who reads this book will feel as moved as I did. Frankly, this well-written tale of adventure and discovery comes at the perfect time. As most of us are prevented from traveling, this book made me feel like I had been almost to the ends of the Earth. I enjoyed every bit of the journey. “ — Susan Miller, Portland Book Review
“★★★★★ The book transcends multiple dimensions of the spiritual, physical, and material world, and gives glimpses of the human spirit, and how they overcome adversities and challenges and change lives. A Story of Karma is spiritually uplifting and is a must-read because it is just not about the conquest of the mountains, but also of the mind and spirit. It gives valuable life lessons in human connection, self-discovery, finding truth, the connection, and the compassion between the author, his wife, Karma, and her family. The author's story will transform the vision and perception of readers, and make them more aware of Buddhism and Buddhist teachings.” — Mamta Madhavan, Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews
In 2012, Michael Schauch and his wife, Chantal, undertook an expedition deep in the Himalaya of northern Nepal, into a remote valley that had been closed off to outsiders for decades. They led a team of artists (a photographer, a musician, and a painter), with the objective of capturing a moment in time through their unique lenses. As a mountaineering fanatic, Michael had a second (and less conspicuous) goal to climb an unknown mountain he had only identified through a photograph. What unfolded in the mountains forced him to question his values and his own identity, and eventually resulted in meeting a little girl, which was the most profound encounter of his life. Little did either know that from that moment they would completely change the trajectory of each other’s life.
A Story of Karma recounts this journey, and the years that follow as Karma (the little girl), and Michael and Chantal grow their lives together amidst the complex dichotomies and backdrop of Karma’s 17th-century Himalayan village; the impoverished and polluted Kathmandu; and the modern world of Vancouver, Canada.
"This story is a testament to the power each and every one of us has to generate meaningful and lasting change in our beleaguered world.”
— Jan Redford, author of End of the Rope: Mountains, Marriage, and Motherhood
“An inspiration to all as we set out again to explore the world of spirit, culture and adventure.”
— Wade Davis, author of several books including Magdalena: River of Dreams, and Into the Silence
“The combination of detail and wonder that one looks for in the best travel writing." — Kirkus Reviews
"★★★★★ A Story of Karma is a heartwarming and touching tale about fate and what happens when you let go and follow your heart into the unknown. I'm sure anyone who reads this book will feel as moved as I did. Frankly, this well-written tale of adventure and discovery comes at the perfect time. As most of us are prevented from traveling, this book made me feel like I had been almost to the ends of the Earth. I enjoyed every bit of the journey. “ — Susan Miller, Portland Book Review
“★★★★★ The book transcends multiple dimensions of the spiritual, physical, and material world, and gives glimpses of the human spirit, and how they overcome adversities and challenges and change lives. A Story of Karma is spiritually uplifting and is a must-read because it is just not about the conquest of the mountains, but also of the mind and spirit. It gives valuable life lessons in human connection, self-discovery, finding truth, the connection, and the compassion between the author, his wife, Karma, and her family. The author's story will transform the vision and perception of readers, and make them more aware of Buddhism and Buddhist teachings.” — Mamta Madhavan, Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews
- GenresNonfictionTravelMemoir
272 pages, Paperback
Published September 29, 2020
10 people are currently reading
2524 people want to read
About the author
Michael Schauch
1 book34 followersMichael Schauch is an alpinist and award winning author who lives to explore the depths of nature and the human spirit and share the beauty of connection he discovers along the way.
His first book, A Story of Karma: Finding Love and Truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya, received accolades from authors including Paula Arai, Stephen Cope, and Wade Davis, as well as from book reviewers including Kirkus, BlueInk (starred), and LoveReading. His work has appeared in Elephant Journal, Unity Magazine, and Thrive Global, and has had notable mentions in Lions Roar, the Vancouver Sun, and the South China Morning Post.
For over a decade Michael has been a mentor and supporter of Buddhist Tibetan youth in Kathmandu, Nepal. He holds an MBA from Queens University and is a member of the Explorers Club.
He and his wife Chantal make their base camp in the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh peoples (Squamish, BC), nestled in the rugged Coast Mountains and temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.
IG @mikeschauch
His first book, A Story of Karma: Finding Love and Truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya, received accolades from authors including Paula Arai, Stephen Cope, and Wade Davis, as well as from book reviewers including Kirkus, BlueInk (starred), and LoveReading. His work has appeared in Elephant Journal, Unity Magazine, and Thrive Global, and has had notable mentions in Lions Roar, the Vancouver Sun, and the South China Morning Post.
For over a decade Michael has been a mentor and supporter of Buddhist Tibetan youth in Kathmandu, Nepal. He holds an MBA from Queens University and is a member of the Explorers Club.
He and his wife Chantal make their base camp in the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh peoples (Squamish, BC), nestled in the rugged Coast Mountains and temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.
IG @mikeschauch
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 9, 2021
This was such a heartwarming book! As someone who lives in a mountain climbing town, I appreciated learning about this more intense side of mountain climbing. Michael does a great job of setting the scene and making you feel like you’re there with him on his expedition to Napal.
The book definitely took an unexpected and unanticipated turn when we meet Karma, a bright little girl from the small village of Nar. Mike and his wife Chantal have an immediate connection with this little girl and spend time getting to know her and her family. Ultimately, they take a huge interest in her life and make an investment in her future. I won’t give too many details because this was a heartwarming, pleasant turn of events, but I thought it was so special to see how two families from opposite sides of the world could become so connected to each other.
It’s worth noting that I listened to the audiobook, which was read by the author. He did a great job!
Thanks to the author for gifting me the audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book definitely took an unexpected and unanticipated turn when we meet Karma, a bright little girl from the small village of Nar. Mike and his wife Chantal have an immediate connection with this little girl and spend time getting to know her and her family. Ultimately, they take a huge interest in her life and make an investment in her future. I won’t give too many details because this was a heartwarming, pleasant turn of events, but I thought it was so special to see how two families from opposite sides of the world could become so connected to each other.
It’s worth noting that I listened to the audiobook, which was read by the author. He did a great job!
Thanks to the author for gifting me the audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 28, 2021
A Story of Karma is a heartwarming memoir that tells the story of the encounter of two very different families: a half Canadian-European couple and a family from Nepal. Mike and Chantal are travelers and hikers who love to explore different landscapes and mountains, so they travel to Nepal for the greatest exploit of their lives.
Mike describes his trip as an adventurous expedition at first, but also a cultural discovery as the group they assemble with are multicultural. They were amazed by the unique aspects of the country; the culture, landscape, but mainly the people they encountered during their travel. This encounter changed their expedition, both spiritually and culturally, and touched the lives of the Nepalis as well, joining their paths.
“It was about the infinite incremental movements and motions that had caused all our paths to converge."
The author describes with infinite sensibility the people he encountered, the beauty of the mountains, the cultural aspects, but mostly their spirituality and how it changed them. The moment when Chantal meets little Karma for the very first time and they dance together was so emotional and touching that I had tears in my eyes. The descriptions were made in such great detail that I could visualize perfectly everything in my mind and I truly felt connected to them. Specially when they met a family from the village of Nar, and how it changed them forever, just like Karma.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
Mike describes his trip as an adventurous expedition at first, but also a cultural discovery as the group they assemble with are multicultural. They were amazed by the unique aspects of the country; the culture, landscape, but mainly the people they encountered during their travel. This encounter changed their expedition, both spiritually and culturally, and touched the lives of the Nepalis as well, joining their paths.
“It was about the infinite incremental movements and motions that had caused all our paths to converge."
The author describes with infinite sensibility the people he encountered, the beauty of the mountains, the cultural aspects, but mostly their spirituality and how it changed them. The moment when Chantal meets little Karma for the very first time and they dance together was so emotional and touching that I had tears in my eyes. The descriptions were made in such great detail that I could visualize perfectly everything in my mind and I truly felt connected to them. Specially when they met a family from the village of Nar, and how it changed them forever, just like Karma.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
July 23, 2021
I thought this book was very enlightening. You come to understand the author’s journey as they go off on an expedition in search of the great challenging mountains and end up getting some new perspective. I also really enjoyed how much they went into the different cultures within Nepal and explained how they interpreted things while over there and how they were perceived by others.
I’m a travel junkie so hearing about all the cool places to be seen in this world makes me want to get off my butt and get out there. I can just imagine how those kids reacted to new people in their village. I have been to Nicaragua and when I was there, we put on these little camps for the kids and their eyes just lit up and their smiles were huge because they were experiencing something they normally never would have had the opportunity to do.
It’s really refreshing to see how the smallest things to us could be a huge deal for someone in a third world country and it really puts our lives into perspective which is definitely a point I think the author was hoping to get across.
I think it is beautiful what Michael and Chantal ended up doing and that it was a life-changing moment for them. I can’t really get into specifics without giving the book away. All I can say is to read it and follow along with Michael as he discovers something that would change his life.
I’m a travel junkie so hearing about all the cool places to be seen in this world makes me want to get off my butt and get out there. I can just imagine how those kids reacted to new people in their village. I have been to Nicaragua and when I was there, we put on these little camps for the kids and their eyes just lit up and their smiles were huge because they were experiencing something they normally never would have had the opportunity to do.
It’s really refreshing to see how the smallest things to us could be a huge deal for someone in a third world country and it really puts our lives into perspective which is definitely a point I think the author was hoping to get across.
I think it is beautiful what Michael and Chantal ended up doing and that it was a life-changing moment for them. I can’t really get into specifics without giving the book away. All I can say is to read it and follow along with Michael as he discovers something that would change his life.
September 21, 2020
Amazing Journey, heart warming story. Captivating - couldn't put it down and read the whole book in 3 days. Filled with emotions. Hope this book will bring more love to the world..We sure need it now.
Highly Recommended.
Highly Recommended.
February 19, 2021
Michael Schauch’s account begins as many travel journals do, with his call to go abroad to pursue his passion, in this case mountain climbing. His early desire to be a writer is evident in his detailed descriptions of the physical and emotional landscapes through which he passes. The people of the mountain villages in Nepal soon overshadow the desire to simply climb another mountain, and the heart of the tale begins as Schauch and his wife, Chantel, are captivated by a young girl named Karma and her drive to learn.
The story then becomes one of their sponsorship of the education of Karma and her younger sister both in Nepal and in Canada. The end has not yet been written, but one can only anticipate the next steps in the journey and potentially a sequel publication. While there is certainly a level of human interest in A Story of Karma, it seems to suffer from being a bit too insular. It is meaningful to Schauch and to this Nepalese village, but a reader is really left with more questions than connection at the end of the day. Is there a call here to action? Is Schauch simply sharing his experience and actions with the world because he can? I am not sure. While he makes sure to stress a commitment to honoring the heritage and home culture for the girls, there is always a concern for cultural appropriation in stories such as this one. At the end of the day, it is an interesting read, written well enough, but not much more. Despite the title, it seems to be more of the author‘s story than Karma’s.
Thank you to Michael Schauch, Rocky Mountain Books, and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story then becomes one of their sponsorship of the education of Karma and her younger sister both in Nepal and in Canada. The end has not yet been written, but one can only anticipate the next steps in the journey and potentially a sequel publication. While there is certainly a level of human interest in A Story of Karma, it seems to suffer from being a bit too insular. It is meaningful to Schauch and to this Nepalese village, but a reader is really left with more questions than connection at the end of the day. Is there a call here to action? Is Schauch simply sharing his experience and actions with the world because he can? I am not sure. While he makes sure to stress a commitment to honoring the heritage and home culture for the girls, there is always a concern for cultural appropriation in stories such as this one. At the end of the day, it is an interesting read, written well enough, but not much more. Despite the title, it seems to be more of the author‘s story than Karma’s.
Thank you to Michael Schauch, Rocky Mountain Books, and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
September 21, 2020This story is magical. A hardass Canadian climber finds his inner horizons illuminated by the noble hearts and simple lives of high altitude Himalayan folk, who live their hard scrabble life in the remote mountains in the north of Nepal. A family and their little girl took Mike and his partner Chantal into their hearts and changed the Schauch's lives. The family and all the children - steady, still, like rocks in a fast moving stream, quietly loving - this was a gift to Mike and Chantal. It opened a different dimension - one of the heart, of simplicity in being. I think this story will continue to unfold as time passes and hope a sequel comes.
The story touches so many points: the wilderness, personal challenge, hard obstacles, a centuries - old semi nomadic life and a search for truth - isn't that what climbing really is? All of of this story is quietly lit by the Buddhist faith of Karma, her family the people of Nar village. This is a book I will read again and again.
The story touches so many points: the wilderness, personal challenge, hard obstacles, a centuries - old semi nomadic life and a search for truth - isn't that what climbing really is? All of of this story is quietly lit by the Buddhist faith of Karma, her family the people of Nar village. This is a book I will read again and again.
September 20, 2020
What a visceral and heart warming experience this book was! Tales of adventure, self discovery, cultural exchange, life lesson mic drops, and dashes of humour that ease you in and out of deep truth bombs regarding human connection. I've never read a book so fast! Brilliant storytelling that captures the journey of many lifetimes. Well done Mike, Chantal, and everyone linked to this magical saga!
October 21, 2021
A Story of Karma is an unforgettable travel memoir that crosses two distinct worlds: a Himalayan village and Vancouver, Canada - while exploring alpine adventure, family connections, and spiritual encounters. As hikers and travelers, Mike and Chantal enjoy exploring different landscapes and mountains, so n 2012, they embarked on the greatest adventure of their lives in Nepal. Their expedition took them deep into the Himalayas of northern Nepal, to a remote valley that had been unaffected by outside influence for decades.
The country's unique features, such as its culture and scenery, as well as the people that they met along their travels, astonished them. They were affected by this encounter on a spiritual and cultural level. Although the trip didn't go as Michael planned, they met a bright little girl named Karma and that meeting affected all of their lives in positive ways and changed the course of their lives forever. For Michael Schauch, a mountain trek transforms into a quest to ensure that Karma and her sister, Pemba, will receive the best possible education in Nepal or Canada while remaining true to Tibetan Buddhism and never forgetting their roots. It is reasonably well written, gripping in parts and has a few heart-stopping moments.
In his memoir 'A Story of Karma', Michael Schauch reflects upon the personal experiences he faced during his journey to Himalaya. Michael’s accounts of his experience, both the sensations and their accompanying thoughts, are remarkably genuine and accurate throughout the book. He describes the highs and lows of such a journey, both literally and figuratively as he travels into valleys. Michael Schauch's memoir will definitely make you think of life in a different way and challenge the "normalcy" in your day to day life. It puts things into perspective and shows what questions you're asking wrong when considering adventure and what questions you should or could be asking instead.
The book gives a realistic impression of a journey often endured rather than enjoyed with the stories of simple families and their everyday lives. Not to be humbled by the magnitude and dangers of the travel – it is after all, walking the length of the Himalayan ranges – but, the book does stand out with its breath-taking narration, dramatic writing style that leaves a reader gasping for more and the spiritual abundance Michael Schauch encounters across his journey.
Michael Schauch is a brave mountaineer, traveller, and explorer. His phenomenally inspiring tale is an emotional roller coaster, which at the end will leave you smiling for his success and achievement especially at the peaceful calm atop the mountain. Michael Schauch seems an easy-going character, meaning that he fits in easily as he meets some of the toughest and nicest people, drawing their stories and lives out into the narrative.
What struck me while reading this book was the mellifluous cadence and accessibility of language that Michael Schauch employs throughout his book; he doesn't try to dazzle you with vernacular or prose, it's simply inherent in the story itself. And to me, that's the message the book is trying to impart upon us; that an ordinary person can achieve extraordinary things. It reminds me of a quote by Margaret Mead: “Never underestimate the power of a small group of dedicated individuals to change the world, it's how it always happens.”
I have been reading this off and on throughout the past week and I have enjoyed everything about this amazing adventure story. Though it turned out to be so much more. There is a little something for everyone in 'A Story of Karma', and it doesn't take a philosopher or scientist to piece together the puzzles that Michael lays out for us. I left this book with a feeling of empowerment, in a way that was spiritual, yet non-denominational.
The country's unique features, such as its culture and scenery, as well as the people that they met along their travels, astonished them. They were affected by this encounter on a spiritual and cultural level. Although the trip didn't go as Michael planned, they met a bright little girl named Karma and that meeting affected all of their lives in positive ways and changed the course of their lives forever. For Michael Schauch, a mountain trek transforms into a quest to ensure that Karma and her sister, Pemba, will receive the best possible education in Nepal or Canada while remaining true to Tibetan Buddhism and never forgetting their roots. It is reasonably well written, gripping in parts and has a few heart-stopping moments.
In his memoir 'A Story of Karma', Michael Schauch reflects upon the personal experiences he faced during his journey to Himalaya. Michael’s accounts of his experience, both the sensations and their accompanying thoughts, are remarkably genuine and accurate throughout the book. He describes the highs and lows of such a journey, both literally and figuratively as he travels into valleys. Michael Schauch's memoir will definitely make you think of life in a different way and challenge the "normalcy" in your day to day life. It puts things into perspective and shows what questions you're asking wrong when considering adventure and what questions you should or could be asking instead.
The book gives a realistic impression of a journey often endured rather than enjoyed with the stories of simple families and their everyday lives. Not to be humbled by the magnitude and dangers of the travel – it is after all, walking the length of the Himalayan ranges – but, the book does stand out with its breath-taking narration, dramatic writing style that leaves a reader gasping for more and the spiritual abundance Michael Schauch encounters across his journey.
Michael Schauch is a brave mountaineer, traveller, and explorer. His phenomenally inspiring tale is an emotional roller coaster, which at the end will leave you smiling for his success and achievement especially at the peaceful calm atop the mountain. Michael Schauch seems an easy-going character, meaning that he fits in easily as he meets some of the toughest and nicest people, drawing their stories and lives out into the narrative.
What struck me while reading this book was the mellifluous cadence and accessibility of language that Michael Schauch employs throughout his book; he doesn't try to dazzle you with vernacular or prose, it's simply inherent in the story itself. And to me, that's the message the book is trying to impart upon us; that an ordinary person can achieve extraordinary things. It reminds me of a quote by Margaret Mead: “Never underestimate the power of a small group of dedicated individuals to change the world, it's how it always happens.”
I have been reading this off and on throughout the past week and I have enjoyed everything about this amazing adventure story. Though it turned out to be so much more. There is a little something for everyone in 'A Story of Karma', and it doesn't take a philosopher or scientist to piece together the puzzles that Michael lays out for us. I left this book with a feeling of empowerment, in a way that was spiritual, yet non-denominational.
March 8, 2021
“The mountains called to me, and I went to them”.
Mike Schauch is a fantastic storyteller that drew me into the details of his expedition to a remote valley in the Himalayas with his wife Chantal, and a crew of artist, musician and photographer. The lost village and an unnamed pyramid mountain called to Mike and he answered the call. What he achieved was more than the high of a the climb and achieving another mountain, but discovered a culture, a community, and a child so special it changed their lives.
The writing was immersive and beautifully written. It was one of those books that I found best read slowly as Schauch took will take the readers through this journey, without sparing any detail - the sights, sounds, smell and emotions were included. I appreciated the storytelling immensely. This was truly personal and I felt every part of the journey.
This is one of the best travelogues I have read so far. I highly recommend this captivating book!
Mike Schauch is a fantastic storyteller that drew me into the details of his expedition to a remote valley in the Himalayas with his wife Chantal, and a crew of artist, musician and photographer. The lost village and an unnamed pyramid mountain called to Mike and he answered the call. What he achieved was more than the high of a the climb and achieving another mountain, but discovered a culture, a community, and a child so special it changed their lives.
The writing was immersive and beautifully written. It was one of those books that I found best read slowly as Schauch took will take the readers through this journey, without sparing any detail - the sights, sounds, smell and emotions were included. I appreciated the storytelling immensely. This was truly personal and I felt every part of the journey.
This is one of the best travelogues I have read so far. I highly recommend this captivating book!
September 22, 2020
A wonderful and heart-warming true story of a decade long journey guided by the gentle nudges of the soul and the magic manifested when those impulses are heard and followed.
If you are drawn to the beauty of nature, mountains and adventure, you will enjoy this engaging and uplifting exploration into the remote Himalayas and the mysteries of life, love and our human connections. It made me laugh, cry and feel good all over! A brilliant read, highly recommended!!
If you are drawn to the beauty of nature, mountains and adventure, you will enjoy this engaging and uplifting exploration into the remote Himalayas and the mysteries of life, love and our human connections. It made me laugh, cry and feel good all over! A brilliant read, highly recommended!!
September 26, 2020
Once in a while, we all wonder why things just aren't going are way. The Story of Karma takes an engaging, deep dive into how the Universe may be trying to help us focus on something more important...much more important! Mike's ability to immerse us in the intricacies of every scene and his easily accessible writing style kept those pages turning. A beautiful, well written story that will warm your heart and open your mind. What more could you ask for!?
November 27, 2020
Thank you to Michael Schauch and Goodreads Giveaways for the signed copy of A Story of Karma. The story has been retold well in many reviews, so I will just say I enjoyed the book very much. My only issue is the print font; it is very small and can pose difficulties for older eyes such as mine.
September 24, 2020
What a wonderful , emotional story.
This book is for all ages to read! Couldn't put it down.
This book is for all ages to read! Couldn't put it down.
October 4, 2021
Reading A STORY OF KARMA reminded me just how much good humans are capable of when they live their life with heart. The book is an account of a 2012 expedition the author, Michael, and his wife, Chantal, had with a team of artists to the Himalaya. Most importantly, it tells the story of their encounter with Karma, a little girl from the village of Kathmandu that quite literally changed their lives in the following years. After meeting Karma, Michael and Chantal have taken the little girl to heart, and in the account of the years following the encounter, the author tells us how they’ve become involved in providing for Karma’s education and the delicate balance between creating opportunities for her outside of her village while also respecting and nourishing her roots.
Non-fiction isn’t an easy genre for me to read. A lot of my enjoyment depends on the author’s ability to weave his story, and in this case, it definitely happened. Michael Schauch speaks to his readers as if he were a friend, revealing snippets of his life—like his encounter with his wife or his passion for mountain climbing. The narration was beautiful and heartfelt, I felt like I was a part of the expedition. I also appreciated the delicacy with which important topics were discussed. Life in the Himalaya is very different from our realities, and the author brought up those differences with tact while also highlighting the importance of preserving and respecting the uniqueness of the village lives and cultures, which becomes important for Karma and Pemba’s education. Most of all, I really loved how much heart was in this story. You can really feel the love Michael and Chantal have for this little girl through the pages, a love that transcends geographical and linguistic limitations and focuses on an encounter of souls. This read was heartwarming from start to finish!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
Non-fiction isn’t an easy genre for me to read. A lot of my enjoyment depends on the author’s ability to weave his story, and in this case, it definitely happened. Michael Schauch speaks to his readers as if he were a friend, revealing snippets of his life—like his encounter with his wife or his passion for mountain climbing. The narration was beautiful and heartfelt, I felt like I was a part of the expedition. I also appreciated the delicacy with which important topics were discussed. Life in the Himalaya is very different from our realities, and the author brought up those differences with tact while also highlighting the importance of preserving and respecting the uniqueness of the village lives and cultures, which becomes important for Karma and Pemba’s education. Most of all, I really loved how much heart was in this story. You can really feel the love Michael and Chantal have for this little girl through the pages, a love that transcends geographical and linguistic limitations and focuses on an encounter of souls. This read was heartwarming from start to finish!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
October 16, 2021
I’ve read and loved a few memoirs in my life, but admittedly it’s not typically a genre I actively seek out! However, I’m SO happy I came across this one by Michael Schauch—I enjoyed it immensely! The author and his wife experienced the most magical adventure during their travels in the Himaylas and it left me feeling in awe of our amazing world and the human beings who inhabit it. I found the descriptive imagery of the Nepal landscape to be beautifully vivid, paired with a super compelling nonfiction story of authentic compassion and human connection. I loved to get to experience the rich cultural enlightenment right alongside Mike and Chantal! Sweet Karma is endlessly endearing and it put tears in my eyes to learn and journey through such a heartwarming story of wholly remarkable people. There is just something so special about reading how the adventure of a lifetime turned into an experience that altered their lives forever! Thanks so much to the author for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts expressed above are entirely my own.
March 25, 2021
I’m going to start off by thanking Mike Schauch for taking the time to reach out to me and for sending me a copy of A Story of Karma. I feel deeply honoured to have the opportunity to read your book!
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It is a travel memoir that follows both Mike and his wife Chantal as they undertake a deep expedition in the Himalayas; an area that has been secluded from outsiders for decades. Though he went into the journey with a desire to climb a particular mountain, what ended up being the most profound encounter of his life was meeting a little girl. What Mike and Chantal feel for this girl is so soulful that they commit to helping her in whatever way they can. This leads to their continued visits back to Nepal and to their lives being changed forever.
⠀
Mike is a brilliant storyteller; his ability to make you feel present when he is recollecting on his experiences in A Story of Karma is top notch. It’s engaging, immersive, and personal; I couldn’t stop myself from flipping those pages. I think the beauty of this book is that it highlights so many valuable things: family (both blood and chosen), human connection, cultural preservation, self discovery, adventure, the importance of education, etc. One of the most eye opening experiences of my life was when I was able to travel abroad and see how other people live. By reading this book, I was able to compare and contrast my life with those in Nepal too. There are so many things we take for granted and so I was deeply touched by Karma’s life; the decisions her parents made to better her future, her tenacity to never give up, and the compassionate nature of Mike and Chantal.
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To put it briefly — a truly inspirational story that made me smile, laugh, and cry. You will not regret picking this one up!
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It is a travel memoir that follows both Mike and his wife Chantal as they undertake a deep expedition in the Himalayas; an area that has been secluded from outsiders for decades. Though he went into the journey with a desire to climb a particular mountain, what ended up being the most profound encounter of his life was meeting a little girl. What Mike and Chantal feel for this girl is so soulful that they commit to helping her in whatever way they can. This leads to their continued visits back to Nepal and to their lives being changed forever.
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Mike is a brilliant storyteller; his ability to make you feel present when he is recollecting on his experiences in A Story of Karma is top notch. It’s engaging, immersive, and personal; I couldn’t stop myself from flipping those pages. I think the beauty of this book is that it highlights so many valuable things: family (both blood and chosen), human connection, cultural preservation, self discovery, adventure, the importance of education, etc. One of the most eye opening experiences of my life was when I was able to travel abroad and see how other people live. By reading this book, I was able to compare and contrast my life with those in Nepal too. There are so many things we take for granted and so I was deeply touched by Karma’s life; the decisions her parents made to better her future, her tenacity to never give up, and the compassionate nature of Mike and Chantal.
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To put it briefly — a truly inspirational story that made me smile, laugh, and cry. You will not regret picking this one up!
December 24, 2020
A STORY OF KARMA: Finding Love and Truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya by Michael Schauch is such a touching memoir!! Michael embarks on an adventurous journey from Vancouver, Canada to deep in the Himalaya of northern Nepal to climb a mountain and capture a moment in time with his wife and team of artists but while there he meets a little girl named Karma and a profound relationship between him and his wife and Karma and her family begins. It was so interesting to read about traveling in Nepal and how life and education was for Karma. I really loved the section near the end of the book with photos that really brought this book to life. To see the mountains and Karma and her family made me cry. The way Michael and his wife devoted themselves to making sure Karma and her sister were educated and taken care of was very heart warming. I loved reading this story and I hope to one day read Karma’s story in her own words.
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Thank you to the author for sending me a copy for review.
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Thank you to the author for sending me a copy for review.
November 21, 2020
In A Story of Karma Mike Schauch puts his arm around you and invites you to sit with him by the fire and hear his tale - of intertwining souls, cultural divides, and the commonality of humanity. His exploration of how sometimes our goals are just meant to point us down the right path for the journey we are ACTUALLY meant to take, is a lesson for us all. His beautifully written descriptions of people and places paint the book with colour, and bring alive the themes that collide spirituality with reality - including insider experiences of historic events. Thanks for sharing your story with us Mike, and that of the beautiful folks woven into your journey's tapestry!
December 12, 2020
Such a moving true story about the journey of the author, Michael Schauch, and his wife Chantal, in the Himalaya of northern Nepal. Noteworthy photos of the expedition, which are ideal for discovery!
Thank you to Michael Schauch and Goodreads Giveaways for this signed copy of A Story of Karma.
Thank you to Michael Schauch and Goodreads Giveaways for this signed copy of A Story of Karma.
Want to read
November 8, 2020Mike Schauch’s book “A Story of Karma” is the second most important book that I have read during my life. I’ll say a bit about the most important book of my life later but for now I will just say that the two are inextricably linked.
It is likely that there are other books around which tell a similar story to the one Mike tells but it is impossible to read everything and you can only make a judgement based on what it is you have had the opportunity to read. And this point reaches right to the very heart of the Story of Karma....the need to recognise and then take opportunities in life when they turn up.
The book describes Mike’s long held and burning ambition to climb what must be one of the most beautiful and magnetising mountains in the Himalaya, based on Mike’s description of it. He, Chantal (his wife) and three friends set off from Canada to explore some of the remotest valleys in Nepal in order to find the way to the summit of this mountain.
As is often the case in life, Mike’s ambition is thwarted by circumstances, primarily the weather but, in a classic example of the role of contingency in life (and in history), another door opens. Mike confronts the disappointment in his original objective only to stumble upon an unexpected opportunity. What happens fits perfectly with the Buddhist concept of the “bardo”.....another chapter in your life ( a reincarnation) which you enter through a doorway that opens up before you.
In the course of the story Mikes ponders on the meaning of it all.....was it “meant to be”? Is it necessary to “let go of expectations”? As you follow the story you sense the tension between two opposing fundamental philosophies of life. Is it governed by the dark menace of preordination (“fate” or “destiny”) or is it governed by our choices. Is life just a flow that takes us where it will whether we like it or not? Do we have any choice?
Mike answers this question unequivocally in the course of telling the story.
His belief that “things work out if we let go of our expectations” has two possible meanings. Does it mean that expectations are almost invariably doomed because what happens is preordained? Or does it mean that letting them go opens up your awareness of other possibilities?
As the story unfolds it becomes clear that Mike recognises a new opportunity when it presents itself and this helps him let go of his original goal. This is the beauty in the story.
This is how he resolves the conundrum....he recognises the power and necessity of knowing our origins, the acknowledgement and valuing of our history. This recognition manifests itself in the torment of working out what is in best interests of the sisters Karma and Pemba, the dilemma of educating them in Canada, and taking them away from their family, the community, the culture and the way of life in their remote mountain village. Mike and Chantal fully understand the importance of the sisters’ origins to their future in a new world and in this he is completely in tune with the sentiments of their parents, Sonam and Pema.
Knowing, understanding and respecting our origins is essential because life has evolved over billions of years and human society has evolved since homo sapiens emerged at a late stage in the evolution of complex life. Former life and former societies are extinguished in the relentless passage of time and history...but we must not forget and we must understand our origins and our history. Our past is what makes us what we are and our past brings with it the debts we must redeem for the future. Karma and Pemba’s owe who they are to their family, to their community and to the ancestors who created them. In reality this debt can never be fully redeemed but to forget that it exists is the road to eternal damnation.
Understanding our origins is the subject of the most important book in my life – Stuart Kauffman’s “At Home in the Universe” and it is because this book is about origins (the origins of life and how it evolves) that “A Story of Karma” is so intertwined with it.
Both of these books tell us that we are just a small part of an enormous, seemingly endless web of connections that makes up the universe we inhabit. If we fail to understand that, our future will be blighted by our refusal to understand our origins and our evolution within the spontaneous, self-creating fabric of nature.
The relationship which Mike and Chantal develop with Sonam, Pema, Karma, Pemba and the rest of the family changes all of their lives; it is a mutual exchange of love and respect.....and wisdom.
As I reached the closing pages of the book I found myself struggling to finish reading it because I broke into uncontrollable weeping.....they were tears of pure joy.
At the finale of the story you realise not only what the relationship with this Nepalese family has brought to Mike and Chantal’s lives, but what they have brought to Karma and Pemba’s lives. They have facilitated a re-imagining of what is possible in the minds of these two girls. In our developed western societies we live with high expectations and a constant striving “to do better”. This has its down sides as we are never satisfied but, for Karma and Pemba, contact with our culture has allowed them to imagine a different future.
They can go on and live their lives grounded in their origins but with a new understanding of the possible. These are the conditions for un-measurable personal power...these girls will change the world around them, about that I have no doubt.
Mountains and climbing remain central to the lives of Mike and Chantal but now are part of an enlarged and enriched whole. The experience has deepened their understanding of what life should be about. Their story is truly inspirational .... read it and be uplifted....and deeply moved.
It is likely that there are other books around which tell a similar story to the one Mike tells but it is impossible to read everything and you can only make a judgement based on what it is you have had the opportunity to read. And this point reaches right to the very heart of the Story of Karma....the need to recognise and then take opportunities in life when they turn up.
The book describes Mike’s long held and burning ambition to climb what must be one of the most beautiful and magnetising mountains in the Himalaya, based on Mike’s description of it. He, Chantal (his wife) and three friends set off from Canada to explore some of the remotest valleys in Nepal in order to find the way to the summit of this mountain.
As is often the case in life, Mike’s ambition is thwarted by circumstances, primarily the weather but, in a classic example of the role of contingency in life (and in history), another door opens. Mike confronts the disappointment in his original objective only to stumble upon an unexpected opportunity. What happens fits perfectly with the Buddhist concept of the “bardo”.....another chapter in your life ( a reincarnation) which you enter through a doorway that opens up before you.
In the course of the story Mikes ponders on the meaning of it all.....was it “meant to be”? Is it necessary to “let go of expectations”? As you follow the story you sense the tension between two opposing fundamental philosophies of life. Is it governed by the dark menace of preordination (“fate” or “destiny”) or is it governed by our choices. Is life just a flow that takes us where it will whether we like it or not? Do we have any choice?
Mike answers this question unequivocally in the course of telling the story.
His belief that “things work out if we let go of our expectations” has two possible meanings. Does it mean that expectations are almost invariably doomed because what happens is preordained? Or does it mean that letting them go opens up your awareness of other possibilities?
As the story unfolds it becomes clear that Mike recognises a new opportunity when it presents itself and this helps him let go of his original goal. This is the beauty in the story.
This is how he resolves the conundrum....he recognises the power and necessity of knowing our origins, the acknowledgement and valuing of our history. This recognition manifests itself in the torment of working out what is in best interests of the sisters Karma and Pemba, the dilemma of educating them in Canada, and taking them away from their family, the community, the culture and the way of life in their remote mountain village. Mike and Chantal fully understand the importance of the sisters’ origins to their future in a new world and in this he is completely in tune with the sentiments of their parents, Sonam and Pema.
Knowing, understanding and respecting our origins is essential because life has evolved over billions of years and human society has evolved since homo sapiens emerged at a late stage in the evolution of complex life. Former life and former societies are extinguished in the relentless passage of time and history...but we must not forget and we must understand our origins and our history. Our past is what makes us what we are and our past brings with it the debts we must redeem for the future. Karma and Pemba’s owe who they are to their family, to their community and to the ancestors who created them. In reality this debt can never be fully redeemed but to forget that it exists is the road to eternal damnation.
Understanding our origins is the subject of the most important book in my life – Stuart Kauffman’s “At Home in the Universe” and it is because this book is about origins (the origins of life and how it evolves) that “A Story of Karma” is so intertwined with it.
Both of these books tell us that we are just a small part of an enormous, seemingly endless web of connections that makes up the universe we inhabit. If we fail to understand that, our future will be blighted by our refusal to understand our origins and our evolution within the spontaneous, self-creating fabric of nature.
The relationship which Mike and Chantal develop with Sonam, Pema, Karma, Pemba and the rest of the family changes all of their lives; it is a mutual exchange of love and respect.....and wisdom.
As I reached the closing pages of the book I found myself struggling to finish reading it because I broke into uncontrollable weeping.....they were tears of pure joy.
At the finale of the story you realise not only what the relationship with this Nepalese family has brought to Mike and Chantal’s lives, but what they have brought to Karma and Pemba’s lives. They have facilitated a re-imagining of what is possible in the minds of these two girls. In our developed western societies we live with high expectations and a constant striving “to do better”. This has its down sides as we are never satisfied but, for Karma and Pemba, contact with our culture has allowed them to imagine a different future.
They can go on and live their lives grounded in their origins but with a new understanding of the possible. These are the conditions for un-measurable personal power...these girls will change the world around them, about that I have no doubt.
Mountains and climbing remain central to the lives of Mike and Chantal but now are part of an enlarged and enriched whole. The experience has deepened their understanding of what life should be about. Their story is truly inspirational .... read it and be uplifted....and deeply moved.
October 11, 2021
I don't typically read memoirs, simply because they can be hit or miss with me. It also takes me a lot longer to read through nonfiction then it does to read through fiction, so I knew I really had to sit down and dedicate time to this book...which I'm glad I did!
This book is like a warm hug, heartwarming, adventurous, and enjoyable. The book is about the author, Michael Schauch and his wife, Chantel, who meet a man who is passionate about the Himalayas. Through their eyes, we get to experience the rich culture of Nepal. I love learning about different ways of life, so it was definitely amazing to read more about it.
Of course, like any memoirs, there is struggle in this book. Like climate conditions and not being able to do something the author set out to do. These are minor setbacks that represent life and the everchanging conditions. However, this story is uplifting and positive, so it definitely reverts back to that.
Overall, this was such a fun read that allowed me to step out of my comfort zone for a bit.
This book is like a warm hug, heartwarming, adventurous, and enjoyable. The book is about the author, Michael Schauch and his wife, Chantel, who meet a man who is passionate about the Himalayas. Through their eyes, we get to experience the rich culture of Nepal. I love learning about different ways of life, so it was definitely amazing to read more about it.
Of course, like any memoirs, there is struggle in this book. Like climate conditions and not being able to do something the author set out to do. These are minor setbacks that represent life and the everchanging conditions. However, this story is uplifting and positive, so it definitely reverts back to that.
Overall, this was such a fun read that allowed me to step out of my comfort zone for a bit.
November 6, 2021
Using their love of nature and mountains, and to explore different landscapes, Mike and Chantal travel to Nepal for the greatest adventure of their lives. Michael Schauch's "A Story of Karma" was a thrilling and mind-blowing account of his trek through villages and mountains. They penetrated deep into the Himalayas of northern Nepal, into a valley that had been shut off to the outside world for decades. His detailed accounts of the people he met and the challenges he and his companions faced was an inspiring read.
Mike is a raconteur and weaves a colorful narrative about the joy, agony and eventual fulfilment in any difficult journey. But most importantly, he sets the bar of human audacity as high as the mountains he walked.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I felt as if I was walking with him. This book was a fun way to learn more about other people and cultures. Highly recommended.
Mike is a raconteur and weaves a colorful narrative about the joy, agony and eventual fulfilment in any difficult journey. But most importantly, he sets the bar of human audacity as high as the mountains he walked.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I felt as if I was walking with him. This book was a fun way to learn more about other people and cultures. Highly recommended.
February 26, 2023
Really enjoyed the book. It moved along at a good pace - no fluff. And, it was so descriptive that I felt I was alongside of Michael and Chantal for much of the story. His description of the young Nepali girls was amazing. And, above all, really admired how they have assisted the girls in their education. And, reading the book has inspired me to add Nepal to my Bucket List.
February 2, 2021
Such a beautiful story of wanderlust, kindness, compassion and culture. The education and advancement of girls is a passion of mine. I love that this couple opened their hearts to so many girls to open the world to them. Crossing my fingers for a Nepal trip in my future
November 24, 2020
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. This ARC came all the way from Canada, with a fancy certified by Canadian Air Post sticker on the package (I love getting mail from all over the world, so this was a fun thing for me, though it's completely unrelated to the number of stars this book gets).
It's absolutely beautifully written. The attention to detail, the turn of phrase, it's absolutely lovely. I was completely entranced. I put down my "for fun" book until this one was done. It's got about half a package of sticky flags sticking out of it because so many things caught my attention. If you want beauty and travel and escapism, this one is so worth it! If you enjoyed Lost Horizon by James Hilton, you will fall into this book. Schauch's ability to turn a phrase makes you feel like you're right there with him. I'm completely torn between sending it to my Mom to read and just waiting to buy her a copy when it comes out because I don't want to let it go but I know she will absolutely love it.
As an additional bonus: For those of us with a serious case of wanderlust who know better than to go wandering during a pandemic, this book helps decrease the antsy feeling associated with not exploring.
It's absolutely beautifully written. The attention to detail, the turn of phrase, it's absolutely lovely. I was completely entranced. I put down my "for fun" book until this one was done. It's got about half a package of sticky flags sticking out of it because so many things caught my attention. If you want beauty and travel and escapism, this one is so worth it! If you enjoyed Lost Horizon by James Hilton, you will fall into this book. Schauch's ability to turn a phrase makes you feel like you're right there with him. I'm completely torn between sending it to my Mom to read and just waiting to buy her a copy when it comes out because I don't want to let it go but I know she will absolutely love it.
As an additional bonus: For those of us with a serious case of wanderlust who know better than to go wandering during a pandemic, this book helps decrease the antsy feeling associated with not exploring.
May 4, 2021
This book is truly a great source of inspiration for both young readers and adults seeking encouragement to listen to their hearts and follow their dreams. You never know what life presents to you when you follow your dream! Here, Michael’s dream of climbing a mountain in Nepal unites him with Karma (a family)! and he continues to help many young people (Students in SMD school and those he met in Nepal) to realize their dream, helping them to make them come true. What Michael and Chantal have been doing to help SMD school in Nepal is truly remarkable. Destitute children in Nepal are getting a rare opportunity to go to school because of many sponsors like them. There can be some controversial viewpoints when sponsors offer to support those who are in need. However, from the kids’ or from any other general beneficiaries' perspectives, I truly believe that they (the beneficiaries) are deeply grateful for being provided with better opportunities (here education) for their better future.
As someone who enjoys mostly fictional stories, I always find it hard to complete reading memoirs, and journals. But Michael’s book was very beautifully written and it was unputdownable! Mostly because the story was very thought-provoking and personally relatable. As someone from Nepal, this book has shown me the world-views of Nepal from a new perspective, something very different from my own Nepali experience.
I read A Story of Karma during the pandemic when things were very uncertain. This book elicited a positive mindset in me during those unprecedented times. Stories like these keep me motivated to work harder each day and become a better person by being grateful and making positive impacts.
As someone who enjoys mostly fictional stories, I always find it hard to complete reading memoirs, and journals. But Michael’s book was very beautifully written and it was unputdownable! Mostly because the story was very thought-provoking and personally relatable. As someone from Nepal, this book has shown me the world-views of Nepal from a new perspective, something very different from my own Nepali experience.
I read A Story of Karma during the pandemic when things were very uncertain. This book elicited a positive mindset in me during those unprecedented times. Stories like these keep me motivated to work harder each day and become a better person by being grateful and making positive impacts.
October 12, 2021
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book to read and also listen to!
Non fiction is not a genre I normally read. Sometimes though I am drawn to a story just as much as fiction.
A story of karma was an extremely heart touching and emotional journey. We follow Mike and his wife Chantel on all sorts of traveling journeys. They are mountain climbers, which is definitely an amazing feat all on its own. I am absolutely terrified of heights and could never bring myself to doing something so intense but just amazing that others are brave enough to do so.
The couple is also brave on their journey through the Himalayas and stumbling across a little girl names Karma. Karma is a wonderful girl from the village of Kathmandu and we quickly discover that Mike and Chantel are truly amazing human beings. I do not want to giveaway what happens of course because it is such a touching story. It just proves that there is still true good karma in the world and some people can still put the needs of others before their own.
Though it was a book outside my norm, it was still a wonderful read and kept my emotions high. Thank you for sharing your beautiful tale with the world.
Non fiction is not a genre I normally read. Sometimes though I am drawn to a story just as much as fiction.
A story of karma was an extremely heart touching and emotional journey. We follow Mike and his wife Chantel on all sorts of traveling journeys. They are mountain climbers, which is definitely an amazing feat all on its own. I am absolutely terrified of heights and could never bring myself to doing something so intense but just amazing that others are brave enough to do so.
The couple is also brave on their journey through the Himalayas and stumbling across a little girl names Karma. Karma is a wonderful girl from the village of Kathmandu and we quickly discover that Mike and Chantel are truly amazing human beings. I do not want to giveaway what happens of course because it is such a touching story. It just proves that there is still true good karma in the world and some people can still put the needs of others before their own.
Though it was a book outside my norm, it was still a wonderful read and kept my emotions high. Thank you for sharing your beautiful tale with the world.
December 15, 2020
Was a bit worried this book would have a white saviour tone to it, but instead you get a book filled with such a love for humanity and general kindness. I was so impressed by Michael and Chantel's devotion to all the children they encountered in Nepal. Reading about the efforts they made to try and make at least one (or two) kids lives better, was just so touching.
It almost breaks my heart to know that so many children are being left behind because they live in such remote areas, are part of an ethnic minority, and are, quite simply, poor. Every child should be given the opportunities that Karma and Pemba have been given, and I hope more people will try to help the most vulnerable.
Anyways, I loved this book. The author had such respect for everyone he met, and it was so refreshing to read.
Thanks to Michael for the free book
It almost breaks my heart to know that so many children are being left behind because they live in such remote areas, are part of an ethnic minority, and are, quite simply, poor. Every child should be given the opportunities that Karma and Pemba have been given, and I hope more people will try to help the most vulnerable.
Anyways, I loved this book. The author had such respect for everyone he met, and it was so refreshing to read.
Thanks to Michael for the free book
January 12, 2022
Sometimes a book grabs you and doesn’t let go. I learned about Michael Schauch’s book, A Story of Karma, while attending an online presentation for some local authors. Michael’s enthusiasm about his subject, and the fact that I have visited Nepal, predisposed me to purchase the book the next day. It doesn’t hurt that the subtitle of the book is “Finding love and truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya.” Tough to resist.
At first the plot seems straightforward. A group of westerners, including Michael and his wife Chantal, an artist, photographer and musician, plan a trip to a remote area of Nepal in order to create a documentary of life in this region, circa 2012. Without revealing details of how the goals of the expedition evolve, the tale shifts from one of general cultural interest to a very personal and intimate story of connecting with a Nepalese family. The tale develops many strands, and Michael weaves them together cohesively. Thankfully, he is a skilled writer, and the narratives carry themselves independently until they coalesce.
The journeys taken, both physical and emotional, are sometimes close to being unbelievable. Persistence, resilience and resourcefulness are important components of the next adventure — bringing two young sisters to Canada for an extension of their education (after first determining that this is what they, and their family, wish).
These are the bare bones of the story, but there is so much more: discovery of an ancient anthropological site; Chantal and Michael’s pasts; historical and geographical awareness of a small Himalayan area; cultural sensitivities; and the power of individuals to affect outcomes using the tools of respect, love and intention.
The writing style is informal and immediate, which results in the sensation of being with Michael and Chantal on their journey. The numbing cold, the discomforts of the trail, the chaos of Kathmandu. The power of emotional tethers is no less realistic. There is
unblinkingly honesty in examining our western knee-jerk ‘helpfulness’.
I first read the book in print —bonus to have a map and photographs to anchor our imaginations. I recently discovered that an audiobook has been produced. Narration (by the author) is excellent and we are able to hear some of the music that was generated on the trek. The book ends and I remain engrossed. The last lines allude to our lives being part of a larger story. A journey of souls where connection, not division, is the goal. Namaste.
At first the plot seems straightforward. A group of westerners, including Michael and his wife Chantal, an artist, photographer and musician, plan a trip to a remote area of Nepal in order to create a documentary of life in this region, circa 2012. Without revealing details of how the goals of the expedition evolve, the tale shifts from one of general cultural interest to a very personal and intimate story of connecting with a Nepalese family. The tale develops many strands, and Michael weaves them together cohesively. Thankfully, he is a skilled writer, and the narratives carry themselves independently until they coalesce.
The journeys taken, both physical and emotional, are sometimes close to being unbelievable. Persistence, resilience and resourcefulness are important components of the next adventure — bringing two young sisters to Canada for an extension of their education (after first determining that this is what they, and their family, wish).
These are the bare bones of the story, but there is so much more: discovery of an ancient anthropological site; Chantal and Michael’s pasts; historical and geographical awareness of a small Himalayan area; cultural sensitivities; and the power of individuals to affect outcomes using the tools of respect, love and intention.
The writing style is informal and immediate, which results in the sensation of being with Michael and Chantal on their journey. The numbing cold, the discomforts of the trail, the chaos of Kathmandu. The power of emotional tethers is no less realistic. There is
unblinkingly honesty in examining our western knee-jerk ‘helpfulness’.
I first read the book in print —bonus to have a map and photographs to anchor our imaginations. I recently discovered that an audiobook has been produced. Narration (by the author) is excellent and we are able to hear some of the music that was generated on the trek. The book ends and I remain engrossed. The last lines allude to our lives being part of a larger story. A journey of souls where connection, not division, is the goal. Namaste.
September 26, 2021
A Story of Karma is quite beautiful. It's a story that flows into ones heart and the reader becomes part of the trail, following the words like footsteps, through the dizzying streets of Kathmandu, through the switch backs and narrow trails; the garbage, mud and feces; observing the colourful prayer flags and the villages, where smiles shined through weathered faces. I wanted to be there...
I followed Mikes questions, Chantal's heart and the others who wondered where they were and why. I fell in Love with Karma and Pemba and the indigenous mountain people of Nepal. The trail we are on leads the reader to witness the dichotomy of our cultures, our way of life and our way of thinking. The whole story read like a fairy tale and yet, it was a real happening. How can that not be beautiful? How can that not penetrate through the mind, into awareness - into the heart?
However, there is another trail I discovered I veered off on, as I read. It leads into our own "lost valley," which I feel is the truth of this book, it's true expression of love. This becomes the magic of the story: where Love and awareness wait for our surrender to the mystery. It's about welcoming and accepting that we really don't know what is going to happen, from what we think and say, to what we want - eventually all that is left is to let go. To let go of everything we have learned and realize we are only the flow and there is nothing to hold on too. We become part of the flow as
we read. The Story of Karma is not just about a beautiful little girl, it is also our Karma, our story and our letting go. It is a story of who we really are: love. I don't believe love was found. I believe love drew them out from what we always are and always will be - not who we think we are, only what we are. The Story of Karma is the language of the heart, it is a language the intellect cannot speak on, it is a story of an opening between the mountains we try to climb. It is no more and no less the truth of ones being.
Read this book and when you feel only the moment and you become aware of your heart, you will know this story was not written by Michael, it was written by a language we all understand when we are open to it. Perhaps you should let go of all I said and just read it for yourself and I hope you fall upon the trail I speak of. If not, the other trail is
quite beautiful to
follow as well.
Enjoy!
I followed Mikes questions, Chantal's heart and the others who wondered where they were and why. I fell in Love with Karma and Pemba and the indigenous mountain people of Nepal. The trail we are on leads the reader to witness the dichotomy of our cultures, our way of life and our way of thinking. The whole story read like a fairy tale and yet, it was a real happening. How can that not be beautiful? How can that not penetrate through the mind, into awareness - into the heart?
However, there is another trail I discovered I veered off on, as I read. It leads into our own "lost valley," which I feel is the truth of this book, it's true expression of love. This becomes the magic of the story: where Love and awareness wait for our surrender to the mystery. It's about welcoming and accepting that we really don't know what is going to happen, from what we think and say, to what we want - eventually all that is left is to let go. To let go of everything we have learned and realize we are only the flow and there is nothing to hold on too. We become part of the flow as
we read. The Story of Karma is not just about a beautiful little girl, it is also our Karma, our story and our letting go. It is a story of who we really are: love. I don't believe love was found. I believe love drew them out from what we always are and always will be - not who we think we are, only what we are. The Story of Karma is the language of the heart, it is a language the intellect cannot speak on, it is a story of an opening between the mountains we try to climb. It is no more and no less the truth of ones being.
Read this book and when you feel only the moment and you become aware of your heart, you will know this story was not written by Michael, it was written by a language we all understand when we are open to it. Perhaps you should let go of all I said and just read it for yourself and I hope you fall upon the trail I speak of. If not, the other trail is
quite beautiful to
follow as well.
Enjoy!
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