Himalayan Hostages
This is a great read for pre-teens (or anyone young at heart) interested in Nepal, wildlife, or simply adventure! From run-ins with poachers and bears in the jungles of Bardiya, to struggling to survive in a mountain cave, to canoeing down the Karnali River, James and Alex (the protagonists) seem to find adventures wherever they go.
As an American journalist who grew up in Nepal myself, I loved the details in this book about wildlife, Nepali cultures, and politics / social problems. The book deals with a terrible time in Nepal's history - the Maoist civil war, when many ordinary people were stuck in the crossfire between rebels and the state security forces - without simplifying complex issues too much. The book's protagonists view the world from a unique vantage point as "Third Culture Kids." Wilson-Howarth, the author, shows her fondness for Nepal and Nepali people, and also demonstrates her lively imagination and story-telling ability!
Peter Gill
Madagascar Misadventure
A great tale for teenagers, already available to read on kindle (see reviews on Amazon). The audiobook is engagingly narrated by the author and augmented with atmospheric sounds of local birds.
Dhankutawallah
Snowfed Waters
Sonia arrives somewhat green in Nepal hoping to make a fresh start. Her travels in rural Nepal eventually take her up country on the trip of a lifetime. I thoroughly enjoyed the adventures of Sonia, Rekraj and the others as they made their way to the mountains. This is a Nepal far from the tourist route which is captured vividly and it brought back many memories. Then disaster struck and kept me on the edge of my seat! Jane Wilson-Howarth writes knowledgeably and fluently about the country and its people. Altogether a most enjoyable read.
Douglas Harper
Himalayan Hideout
The author has done another good job of giving us an intriguing plot with twists and turns while providing glimpses into the life, culture and scenery of the Himalayas. This should appeal to young adults and adults (read advanced teen readers and beyond). The author again proved she’s in the relatively small circle of authors who can provide a respectable performance of her own work.
Leanne