Snowfed Waters
This is an adventure to Nepal for the reader. Wilson-Howarth's descriptions of countryside, wildlife, smells, tastes, textures, and sounds are so alive and engaging that I felt as if I really was there. Her assured depiction of Nepali society and culture is even more gripping and informative, if that's possible. Wilson-Howarth, a Cambridge GP, draws on long experience of living and practising medicine in Nepal. The story is told by several of the characters, English Sonia on her first visit to this magical, totally foreign country, and Nepalis of different castes. So we readers grasp the culture clash in a way which is touching and often amusing. This page-turner makes gentle fun of many cultural misunderstandings. I recommend Snowfed Waters to anyone because if you want to learn to write, read this to learn how; it's an amazing travel account from a master in the field, a gripping and very human story of personal development, and a joyful experience of writerly writing.
Dr Gillie E J Bolton, author
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
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
Madagascar Misadventure
This was a great story. Malagasy culture, customs and beliefs. Wildlife. Adventure. Humour throughout in the witty chit-chat among the children: Alex, his brother James and the daughter of a colleague of their parents, Claude. Issues of illegal exports of animals and illegal logging. Danger and threat from either people or the environment rear their heads and the children are involved in a great conspiracy and a fight for survival. The writing is wonderful, rich with description, and I can't recommend it enough for readers who enjoy a good adventure in a far-flung place and care about the environment and the protection of animals.
Mari Law