In 'The Snow Leopard', renowned naturalist Peter Matthiessen embarks on a journey through the remote Himalayas, seeking both the elusive snow leopard and a deeper understanding of life. Amidst breathtaking landscapes and spiritual reflections, he grapples with loss, solitude, and the fleeting nature of existence. This profound exploration of the natural world intertwines with his personal quest for enlightenment, revealing the beauty and mysteries of life in every step. As Matthiessen encounters the harsh realities of wilderness and his own inner struggles, readers are invited to ponder life's greatest questions. Will he find the elusive snow leopard, or will the real discovery lie within?
By Peter Matthiessen
Published: 2016
"A journey is a kind of homecoming."
Part of the Penguin Orange Collection, a limited-run series of twelve influential and beloved American classics in a bold series design offering a modern take on the iconic Penguin paperback Winner of the 2016 AIGA + Design Observer 50 Books | 50 Covers competition For the seventieth anniversary of Penguin Classics, the Penguin Orange Collection celebrates the heritage of Penguin’s iconic book design with twelve influential American literary classics representing the breadth and diversity of the Penguin Classics library. These collectible editions are dressed in the iconic orange and white tri-band cover design, first created in 1935, while french flaps, high-quality paper, and striking cover illustrations provide the cutting-edge design treatment that is the signature of Penguin Classics Deluxe Editions today. The Snow Leopard In 1973, Peter Matthiessen and field biologist George Schaller traveled high into the remote mountains of Nepal to study the Himalayan blue sheep and possibly glimpse the rare and beautiful snow leopard. Matthiessen, a student of Zen Buddhism, was also on a spiritual quest to find the Lama of Shey at the ancient shrine on Crystal Mountain. The result is a remarkable account of a journey both physical and spiritual, as the arduous climb yields to Matthiessen a deepening Buddhist understanding of reality, suffering, impermanence, and beauty.
Showing 8 of 26 similar books
Paul Graham is a prominent programmer, venture capitalist, and essayist known for his influential work in the tech startup ecosystem. He co-founded Viaweb, one of the first web-based applications, which was later acquired by Yahoo! and became Yahoo! Store. As a co-founder of Y Combinator, Graham has been instrumental in funding and mentoring numerous successful startups, including Dropbox, Airbnb, and Reddit. His essays, collected in books such as "Hackers & Painters," offer profound insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and philosophy, making significant contributions to modern literature on these subjects. Graham's blend of technical expertise and thought leadership has made him a pivotal figure in both the tech and literary communities.
Adam Shoalts is a Canadian explorer, historian, and author renowned for his solo expeditions into some of the most remote regions of the world. He gained widespread recognition with his best-selling book, *Alone Against the North*, which recounts his daring adventures in the uncharted wilderness of Canada. Shoalts's contributions to literature extend beyond thrilling narratives; his works also provide valuable insights into the natural world and the challenges of exploration. In 2017, he embarked on a remarkable 4,000-kilometer journey across the Canadian Arctic, which he documented in his book *Beyond the Trees*. His writings have cemented his reputation as one of Canada's leading voices in adventure literature.
Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Ricardo Semler is a Brazilian businessman and author, known for his radical approach to corporate management, which emphasizes employee autonomy and democratic decision-making. As the CEO of Semco Partners, Semler transformed his family business into one of the most successful companies in Brazil by allowing employees to control many aspects of their work environment. His management philosophy, outlined in his book Maverick, has inspired companies around the world to adopt more flexible, employee-driven practices. Semler is also an advocate for rethinking education and leadership, and his ideas continue to influence business leaders globally.
Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and media strategist known for his books on stoicism, including The Obstacle Is the Way and Ego Is the Enemy. He is a leading voice in modern stoic philosophy, teaching readers how to apply ancient wisdom to achieve personal and professional success. Holiday’s work emphasizes resilience, discipline, and humility as keys to navigating life’s challenges. He has consulted with major companies and individuals on marketing and strategy, blending stoic principles with contemporary business practices. His books have been translated into over 30 languages.
Bryan Johnson is an American entrepreneur, investor, and futurist, best known for founding Braintree, a payments company that was acquired by PayPal, and Kernel, a company focused on developing brain-computer interfaces. Johnson is deeply interested in advancing human cognition and longevity through technological innovation. His work at Kernel seeks to better understand the brain and its potential to enhance human intelligence. He is also the founder of OS Fund, which invests in companies tackling complex, world-changing problems in areas like health and energy. Johnson is a strong advocate for using technology to extend human potential and reshape the future of humanity.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Bryant Chou is a distinguished author renowned for his pioneering contributions to contemporary literature. He gained widespread acclaim with his debut novel, "Echoes of Solitude," which masterfully explores themes of isolation and human connection. Chou's work has been lauded for its lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance, earning him several literary awards, including the prestigious Booker Prize. Beyond his novels, he is also a prolific essayist, with numerous pieces published in leading literary journals. Chou continues to influence the literary world through his innovative storytelling and profound insights into the human condition.
Showing 8 of 9 related collections
“A journey is a kind of homecoming.”
The Snow Leopard
By Peter Matthiessen
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Peter Matthiessen (1927-2014) was an acclaimed American author, naturalist, and activist known for his profound contributions to literature and conservation. His notable works include 'The Snow Leopard,' which reflects his journey through the Himalayas and explores themes of spirituality and the natural world, and 'Shadow Country,' a reimagining of the life of the infamous South Florida outlaw Edgar Watson. Matthiessen's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose, keen observation, and deep ecological awareness, often blending fiction with non-fiction elements to convey complex themes of nature, humanity, and the interconnectedness of life.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Richest Man in Babylon," George S. Clason weaves captivating parables set in ancient Babylon, revealing timeless financial wisdom. Through the journey of its characters, readers uncover the secrets of wealth accumulation, including the power of saving, prudent investments, and living within one’s means. The narrative emphasizes that prosperity is attainable for anyone willing to learn and apply these fundamental principles. Each lesson is not only practical but also imbued with a sense of hope and empowerment. As you turn the pages, you’ll find yourself inspired to take control of your financial destiny and uncover the riches within your reach.
In "The Road Less Traveled," renowned psychiatrist M. Scott Peck combines spiritual wisdom with psychological insight to explore the nature of love, discipline, and personal growth. He challenges readers to confront the complexities of life, urging them to embrace pain and discomfort as pathways to deeper meaning and fulfillment. Through a unique blend of storytelling and practical advice, Peck reveals the transformative power of commitment and the significance of self-awareness in our relationships. As we navigate our own roads, he offers profound insights that provoke introspection and inspire change. Prepare to embark on a journey that invites you to redefine your understanding of love and self-discovery.
In "The Alchemist," Paulo Coelho weaves a mesmerizing tale of Santiago, a young shepherd who dreams of discovering his personal legend. Driven by an insatiable quest for treasure, he embarks on a transformative journey across deserts and cultures, encountering wise mentors and mystical omens along the way. Each encounter unveils profound truths about destiny, love, and the interconnectedness of all things. As Santiago wrestles with fears and realizations, readers are invited to reflect on their own paths and the dreams they hold dear. Will he find the treasure he seeks, or will the journey itself become the ultimate reward?
In "Atomic Habits," James Clear unveils the transformative power of small, incremental changes in our daily routines. He argues that success is not the result of giant leaps, but rather the accumulation of tiny habits that compound over time. With engaging anecdotes and scientific insights, Clear provides a roadmap for breaking bad habits and cultivating good ones. Readers will discover practical strategies to make habits more attractive, easy, and satisfying, ensuring lasting change. Dive into this compelling exploration of human behavior and unlock the secret to achieving your biggest goals—one tiny habit at a time!
In "American Gods," Neil Gaiman weaves a mesmerizing tale of Shadow Moon, an ex-convict drawn into a hidden world where ancient gods clash with modern deities created by society's obsessions. As Shadow travels across the country with the enigmatic Mr. Wednesday, he uncovers a rich tapestry of myth and magic interwoven with contemporary America. Every bizarre encounter reveals the past's lingering power and the cost of forgotten beliefs amidst a rapidly changing landscape. With each page, readers are drawn deeper into a battle for the soul of a nation, where the stakes are nothing less than the survival of the old gods. Will Shadow embrace his true identity, or will he be lost to the chaos of a world that no longer remembers them?
Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys dives deep into the complexities of boys' emotional development in a society that often silences their feelings. Authors Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson reveal the stark reality of how traditional masculinity hinders boys from expressing vulnerability and forming meaningful connections. Through compelling research and poignant stories, they advocate for an emotional education tailored to boys' unique needs. The book invites readers to reconsider societal expectations, empowering parents and educators to nurture empathy and resilience in young boys. What if unlocking the emotional lives of boys could reshape their futures and challenge the status quo?
In 'The Great Convergence,' Richard Baldwin takes readers on a compelling journey through the forces shaping our global economy, emphasizing the revolutionary impact of digital technology. He argues that the convergence of production and consumption is redefining international borders and reshaping global trade. As we become more interconnected than ever, Baldwin raises critical questions about the future of jobs and economic disparity. Will the merging of markets lead to prosperity, or will it deepen existing divides? A thought-provoking exploration that challenges conventional wisdom and invites readers to rethink the implications of our rapidly changing world.
In 'Going Offline', Jeremy Keith and Aaron Gustafson explore the digital world's grip on our lives and the compelling case for unplugging. Through a captivating blend of personal anecdotes and insightful analysis, they challenge readers to reconsider their online habits. The authors offer practical advice and innovative strategies to help individuals reclaim their time and mental space. With a witty tone and thought-provoking arguments, this book serves as a wake-up call for anyone feeling overwhelmed by constant connectivity. Discover the liberating power of going offline and reconnecting with the world around you!