A compelling history of the uninvited exploration of Tibet from the 19th century to the present day. Hopkirk focuses on the western invasion of Lhasa, the world's highest, most mysterious and, unfortunately, most strategically important capital. Also at the center of the story is China's assault on Tibet following the struggle between Britain and Russia for political dominance in Central Asia (called the Great Game). Hopkirk is an enthusiastic, master storyteller who captures the intrigue and fascination of the subject.  (TBT08, $15.00)