Snowfed Waters
I loved the atmospheric writing and the characters. It’s really evocative and completely sensuous - love the smells of the woodsmoke and the cumin in the first chapter. And it is brilliant how the author describes Sonia's appearance through Rekraj's eyes. Gives us a picture of her that shows what he values as well as what she looks like. A very economical and subtle solution to the problem of description, shown, not told.
Margaret Spence
Madagascar Misadventure
This captivating story follows brothers Alex and James, whose lives are anything but ordinary. Growing up with parents whose adventurous work exposes them to snakes, lemurs, and the challenges of camping in remote, unforgiving locations, the siblings navigate relentless obstacles shaped by weather and isolation. Yet, at their core, Alex and James long for the same things every child desires: the love and safety of their parents and a place to call home. The vivid narration transports readers straight to Madagascar, where the sounds of wildlife and rich descriptions of the terrain bring the story to life. Highly recommend this immersive and heartfelt read!
audible listener
Himalayan Heist
From looking at the cover of the book I wouldn’t normally have chosen to listen to this audiobook. However I am pleased I did.
It is very interesting learning about Nepal and the characters surviving in the Himalayas. I didn’t like James's character because he farts a lot at the beginning and is mostly talking about food at inappropriate times. However I liked Alex's character and I liked the other main characters. I liked how Alex was so knowledgeable about animals and plants and ecological and animal welfare.
I think Jane’s voice is really good and the book is well read and easy to understand and enjoyable to listen to. Her reading is a lot better in my opinion than some other audiobooks I have listened to on audible and the library app.
The photos in the accompanying PDF really help the listener to visualise what some of the things and places in the book would look like and is a helpful addition. On the PDF I learnt that Jane had taken most of the pictures herself and written what they are. This validates her knowledge of Nepal and the animals and culture.
This book has an enjoyable story but also a serious animal welfare theme and interesting setting.
Himalayan Kidnap
This is a gripping and fast-paced story, firmly rooted in reality. There are two boys, young, funny, vulnerable and scared. And there’s the exotic and alien environment of the Himalayas, rich with vividly enticing wildlife – but also full of danger. This adventure story dramatically explores how determination can turn into heroism.
Victor Watson, children's author