Good Karma Refuge for Elephants

Good Karma, Book 1

By: David Michie

Narrated by: David Michie

When Rob Forbes returns to his childhood home of Zimbabwe after decades away, he doesn't plan to stay long. A big job back in London awaits. But he finds himself questioning his priorities when he experiences the open-hearted exuberance of people who have so little compared to his wealthy colleagues; a powerful reconnection to the animals and wild places he loved as a child; and a growing friendship with Tibetan guru and neighbour Rinpoche.

What if it is possible to live with the same ineffable lightness as the intriguing lama? Why is the joy of ubuntu – community – felt in the most improbable places? And could an orphaned elephant calf change his life?

©2025 David Michie (P)2025 Bolinda Publishing

Critic reviews

'Michie gifts readers with an intimate look at the people, customs and land of Africa, the "continent of light", in this enlightening novel.' (BookLife)

Didn't want it to end!

This book is like a cozy hug. David Michie has such a talent for conveying messages through the stories of engaging characters and plots. Yes, this is a book "about" Buddhism in a way, but rather than "teaching" us, the messages are conveyed through a beautiful story that follows likeable and evolving characters in familiar or could-be familiar situations. I loved, loved, loved his Dalai Lama's Cat book series, and I love this book too (hopefully it'll become a series as well!). As someone who loves animals more than humans, I enjoyed all of the animal characters and how well-written they were as characters - and the human characters were delightful, too. The visuals he paints of Zimbabwe, its people, its environment, makes me want to visit (and maybe start an elephant refuge.. lol). Beautiful and enjoyable book - Michie fans will not be disappointed. Also this audio book is narrated by the author, and I think he does a very good job.

A Delightful Experience

As with all other Michie books, the entertainment quotient is high. But entertainment spiced with learning in such a way as to not be obvious. Michie’s books impart vital information for peaceful happy living that makes one eager to hear the next one. Highly recommend this title.

The Good Karma Refuge For Elephants is an absolute treasure.

It’s beautifully written, full of heart, and carries a message of loving compassion that lingers long after the last page.

David Michie's new book is a delight!

I couldn’t stop smiling. What beautiful new characters. Rob, Yogi Tarchin are among many others whose journey I look forward to sharing. It will fun to watch the baby Elli grow up and to enjoy the antics of her friends. I am confident that I have much learn from their journey in this mesmerizing country. The glossary of African terms and the focus on learning about this part of the world further emphasizes Michie’s role as a master teacher. I am always learning, and grateful for those learnings.

As an ardent admirer of HHC I was anxious about the move to this new focus. If you share this concern, please be reassured that The Good Karma Refuge for Elephants feels like the beginning of a rich new journey.