Himalayan Kidnap
"I think the author was amazing. The best bits were when she read extracts from Himalayan Kidnap. Listening to her life in Nepal was fascinating." Alex H.
"I liked it because the author had lots of detail in everything she said. I also think she likes travelling like I do!" Lucia L-T.
"I liked it when the author read the part about the two boys trying to cross the river. She made it realistic, for example, about the crocodile spinning the boy round in the water."
Hanif M.
"I think her books seem interesting. Also, I think the author is a good inspiration to people."
Maddie P-M.
Year 7 Beaumont School
Himalayan Hideout
In this second of the Alex and James adventures the story begins with the boys and their parents imprisoned by Maoists in Nepal, in filthy conditions. As they are being moved to a remote hideout, the boys escape and, with their friend Bim, they try to follow their parents, hoping to free them. This is a journey fraught with danger not only from the angry Maoists but also from wild animals and hostile conditions. Wonderfully accurate black and while illustrations by Betty Levene bring the story (and the animals) to life for the reader.
Himalayan Hostages
Surfing a narrative as swift and treacherous as a Himalayan river, Alex and his brother James pursue their kidnapped parents into the jungles of southwest Nepal, bonding over very many very lucky escapes and a good dose of samosas, milky tea and practical jokes. An enjoyable, educational read for all ages, this beautifully illustrated eco-adventure is an authentic contemporary portrayal of and call to action for a country beset by ecological and moral challenges.
Rabi Thapa
Snowfed Waters
Snowfed Waters is cleverly written from the different perspectives of the main characters. This really adds depth to their lives, cultures, personalities and contrasting outlooks. I was drawn into the book with its easy style, creative description, intriguing plot, warm characters and frequent amusing moments. I read the book whilst trekking in Nepal and it gave me a wonderful feeling about the country's people through their eyes. It is a delightful read. I was always keen to pick it up with anticipation, as Sonia and her Nepalese hosts' lives draw together and the story takes you on an adventure with unexpected mishaps, joys and shocks.
Doug Colton