About that book cover…

The full book jacket for A Story of Karma is DONE, and I couldn’t be happier with it. RMB’s Artistic Director Chyla Cardinal absolutely nailed it. 

The design is based off the Eternal Knot, one of the most auspicious symbols in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, often cited to signify the unity of wisdom and compassion, and the interconnectedness of all things. 

The colours, vibrant and captivating, are traditional Tibetan colours, each one with its own unique meaning: Blue represents purity and healing, helping to transform anger into wisdom. White represents learning and wisdom, helping us to clearly see truth over ignorance. Red signifies life force itself and transforms the delusion of attachment into discernment. Green fosters balance and harmony, reminding us to not be derailed by the cycle of jealousy and envy. Yellow (or gold) inspires groundedness, keeping us modest and humble, and unblinded by pride. Pink, the colour of the lotus flower, is said to represent Buddha himself. 

Behind this is layered in the artwork from the ceiling of the monastery just outside Karma and Pemba’s village of Nar. I love how the detail captures the Tibetan dragon or Druk, considered one of the Four Dignities in Tibet. According to the Tibetan Journal, “the dragon is believed to have the power of perfect communication and enlightenment, being able to see right through slander and other forms of manipulation. Dragons cannot be seen by the naked eye, but they are known to announce their presence with a thunderous sound that awakens people from false beliefs and perceptions.” 

And bringing it all together are the beautiful Himalayan children of Nar. This picture was taken when we first crossed paths with Karma and Pemba - an encounter that changed everything.

On the back cover, I’m honoured and thrilled to be able to include the heartfelt and generous words of Dr. Paula Arai, Dorje Dolma, and Dr. Mark Aldenderfer. 

And to cap it all off, humbly positioned in the bottom right corner, is RMB’s statement - a testament to their values aligned and values driven leadership: “Rocky Mountain Books is dedicated to the environment and committed to reducing the destruction of old-growth forests. Our books are produced with respect for the future, and consideration for the past.”

Now I just can’t wait to hold the book in my hands! :)