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
This is like meeting up with old friends. Alex and James are the same banterous and mischievous selves. This time they are in Madagascar travelling with the very forthright Claude-Michelle who sometimes guides the English brothers and often takes them in hand.
The three children have numerous adventures, getting lost in caves and threatened by the wildlife, but also when they stumble across evil men involved in wildlife trafficking who will stop at nothing to silence the children.
It is great that this book is available for Kindle readers as well as on Audible.
This is one of four Alex and James wildlife adventures.
Maggie
Himalayan Heist
A gripping tale of adventure in the mountains, full of tales of wildlife, smuggling and plucky children. Highly recommended
Lumbasumbayeti
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