Far from the Rooftop of the World

“Yee renders her subjects on the page with energetic prose that focuses foremost on their humanity, not the tragedies that have befallen them, individually and collectively . . . . a deeply researched and empathetic look at a people who remain largely unknown or misunderstood to American readers, akin to fellow journalist Barbara Demick’s excellent book, Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea. Readers who seek to understand the plight of our fellow humans in other parts of the world should hang on every word.”—Hannah Bae, The Boston Globe

“Powerful . . . . Over the course of more than a decade, [Yee’s] interactions and correspondences with her Tibetan contacts blossomed into a non-fiction narrative that is among the first of its kind . . . . Yee’s focus on authentic lived experiences—stories that could only be written with deep and trusted connections—establishes a model for responsible and effective refugee representation.”—Joshua Peng, Wilson Center

“"Through incredible personal narratives, Far from the Rooftop of the World paints a deep, nuanced picture of the Tibetan diaspora and the real human impact of China’s policy toward Tibet.”—Foreword Reviews

“Engaging . . . . The Tibetan exiles she follows are resilient, resourceful and proud of their heritage. They are excellent ambassadors for a country that China insists has never existed and the very idea of which is treasonous: a free Tibet . . . . captivating.”—The Economist

“[Yee] takes us with her into the homes, streets, schools, and communities of Tibetan refugees in India, intimately introducing us to unforgettable individuals and showing us their dreams and losses and the ordinary moments of their lives.”—Lion’s Roar

“[A comprehensive] look at look at the Tibetan refugee experience . . . . with atmospheric details, historical facts, and scenes from daily life in India, all of which Yee recounts in a [vulnerable and charming] narratorial voice.”—Kirkus Reviews

“"Compelling . . . . evocative . . . . Yee’s style is fresh and accessible, warm with fondness and sympathy for her subjects, and seldom overly indulging in the romanticism that perfumes much prose on Tibet.”—Nikkei Asia

“Beautifully observed, with full-bodied, engaging characters who are never lost in the shadow of Chinese politics. Amy Yee has done a wonderful job of capturing the details, dramas, and dignities of Tibetan life in exile.”—Peter Hessler, author of River Town: Two Years on the Yangtze and Oracle Bones: A Journey through Time in China, finalist for the National Book Award

“In too many narratives, Tibetans are merely faceless victims. But in this perceptive and empathic work, Amy Yee shows we are people full of life, dreams, nuances, and resilience.”—Tencho Gyatso, president of the International Campaign for Tibet

“This extraordinary, compassionate work takes us into both physical and spiritual worlds. When we finish the book, we are left changed. We can see who we were when we began it and who we are now.”—Akhil Sharma, author of Family Life, winner of the International Dublin Literary Award