Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh transforms an ancient folktale into a timeless parable. Born in rural Vietnam, Kinh Tam's beauty and intelligence were obvious to all. From an early age she was drawn to the teachings of Buddha and the rewards of a monastic life, but to please her family she agreed to marry. Throughout her marriage, Kinh Tam's mind was devoted to her husband, but her heart never wavered from her true calling. She wanted to be a monk. Yet Buddhism was still new to Vietnam and temples accepted only men for ordination. So Kinh Tam disguised herself as a man, and joined a monastery as a novice. Years of joy and peace passed until a local woman accused the novice of fathering her unborn child. Torn between two impossible choices, Kinh Tam faced the unbearable with the boundless heart of Buddha, and her choice forever changed her life, her country, and her faith.--From publisher description.