Chasing the Tiger
The second book in the series is a fun work of fiction layered upon a factual description of an exotic life in the Himalayan nation of Nepal, written by an author in residence there. The latest tale is a fast-paced and exciting adventure where the main characters encounter the local wild-life and cultures, with lovely line drawings of the animals interspersed in the text as amusing and interesting bonus material. Though aimed primarily at readers in the 8- to 12-year old age range, this book will bring pleasure to all who open it.
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
Your Child Abroad: a travel health guide
“compulsive reading…tips are relevant for any foreign holiday…extremely well laid out.”
The Guardian, London