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Like a Yeti Catching Marmots

A Little Treasury of Tibetan Proverbs

By Pema Tsewang Shastri
Edited by Josh Bartok

The Yeti, or Dremo in Tibetan, is a dim-witted mythical beast said to feed only on marmots. It sees a marmot, grabs the hapless creature, and then sits on it - saving the delicious morsel for later. And then the Yeti sees another marmot and leaps up to snatch it while the first marmot makes a quick break for freedom. An image of bumbling, foolish effort.

This enchanting little book contains 108 traditional Tibetan proverbs - conveying the wit and wisdom of one of the world's most unique cultures. The proverbs appear in English and Tibetan script, along with a brief explanation of how and when to use each saying.

Often funny and wise, these proverbs always remind us of our experiences in a natural and meaningful way.
Pema Tsewang Shastri

Pema Tsewang Shastri, a former Fulbright scholar at Harvard University, has served as the chairman of the board of directors for the Tibetan Association of Boston; in various capacities-as principal, headmaster, and teacher of Tibetan language, literature, and history-at schools in the Tibetan Children's Village in Dharamsala, India; and as principal and administrator at the Institute for Buddhist Dialectics Dolmaling, also in Dharamsala. He has published many books in Tibetan, including poetry, fiction and nonfiction, and translations of works by Dr. Gene Sharp and Charles Dickens. He lives in Somerville, Massachusetts, with his family.

"A treasure for Tibetans and English-speaking Westerners alike...Whether you are reconnecting to the proverbs of your elders or learning a new saying to share with friends, this book can find a welcome spot in the center of any home."

– Mandala

"Pema Tsewang, Shastri, is well known for the skill of speaking in proverbs with proverbs that is now very much on the verge of extinction. His "little treasury" will prove a valuable contribution"

– Thupten K. Rikey, editor of Tibet Journal

"Conveys both the folk wisdom of this very special country and the spirituality which has animated its monastic culture for centuries...Cycled around and down through time, they deliver truth and meaning for those who have eyes to see and ears to hear."

– Spirituality and Practice

"Like A Yeti Catching Marmots is a valuable modern addition to the ancient Tibetan tradition of proverb-collections. It's visually delightful, is funny as well as intriguing, and is full of witty and thoughtful observations."

– Robbie Barnett, Columbia University, coauthor of The Tibetans: A Struggle to Survive

"Marvelous. For Tibetans and non-Tibetans alike, these proverbs will illuminate a delightful and distinct form of Tibetan folk art. Hats off to Pema Tsewang for having preserved this treasure trove!"

– Dr. Joseph Shay, coeditor of Odysseys in Psychotherapy

"Congratulations on this wonderful compilation! It will be a treasure for Tibetan readers of all different ages."

– Bhuchung Sherap, Tibetan author

Like a Yeti Catching Marmots

A Little Treasury of Tibetan Proverbs

By Pema Tsewang Shastri
Edited by Josh Bartok