The book was highlighted as Rama's bestselling memoir recounting his early years in the Himalayas with his first teacher, and its controversial publishing saga was noted, including an initial $250,000 advance that was later withdrawn and a subsequent deal with St. Martin's. The episode referenced praise from figures such as NBA coach Phil Jackson and later mentions by Tina Turner, underscoring its lasting appeal. Overall, the hosts presented it as a notable and enduring work.
Episode: I Am Rama | 10. Legacy
The book was described as Rama's bestselling memoir about his early years in the Himalayas with his first teacher, and it remained popular years after its release.
the bestselling one of them, Surfing the Himalayas, tells the tale of Rama's early days in the Himalayas with his first teacher, Master Phwap.
According to various news outlets, Warner Books gave Rama a $250,000 advance for the story. But things got a little hairy after citing all the controversy surrounding Rama in those days. Warner Books apparently dropped the deal in exchange for an $80,000 kill fee.
NBA coach Phil Jackson famously named the Zen master for his reputation as a counterculture coach who infused Buddhism and mindfulness into his coaching. Praised the book at first, but soon withdrew his public blurb.
The book would ultimately still be published. St. Martin's press swooped in and published the book instead.
Surfing the Himalayas still has some staying power. In 2018, Tina Turner told The New York Times the book sits on her nightstand.
Episode: I Am Rama | 2. Becoming
Frederick Lenz's later work,Surfing the Himalayas, was referenced as describing his accidental encounter with a monk and the vivid spiritual experience that followed.
In a book he wrote decades later called Surfing the Himalayas, he describes in great detail how he literally stumbled into his spiritual experience and how he saw the golden light enveloping Master Phwap's body.