The perfect summer novel for young middle-grade readers, [a] tale of adventure and courage, halfway around the world . . . a story told with hope and compassion.” A big part of Tash realising that there's far more going on in the world than she knows is because a man in her village sets himself on fire in protest. And it's brought up several times in the course of the story. But an explanation as to WHY someone might do something like that and an emphasis that it's not something that should be encouraged as a form of protest doesn't come until right at the end of the book. And given that it's a middle grade book, I wanted that stuff to come a liiiiiittle bit sooner. Those experiences shape my point of view, for sure. And when it comes to China-Tibet relations, that means a lot. I don’t defend China’s actions in Tibet over the last 60 years, but one thing that’s been consistent is their continual erasure of the Dalai Lama within Tibet and Tibetan communities throughout China. So it was a stretch for me to believe that the Dalai Lama continues to be so active a presence for a 12-year-old that this was her first (and most viable) choice. Buy from our bookstore and 25% of the cover price will be given to a school of your choice to buy more books. *15% of eBooks. Home >

The setting of the majority of the story, the Himalayas, is another main character here. As daunting as the journey through the mountains and towards the relative safety of northern India is, the setting is still painted as breathtaking and beautiful by debut author Jess Butterworth. It’s unforgiving, yes, and Tash along with her best friend Sam and their yaks have various difficulties to contend with along the way. The landscape is still seen in a reverential way, a way that inspires awe in these young minds. a thrilling fable about hope, and the importance of holding onto what matters, no matter what. With its derring-do charm, and vivid sense of place, this follows in the tradition of classic adventure stories, and comes thoroughly recommended for fans of Eva Ibbotson, Lauren St John and Katherine Rundell. (Joanne Owen Love Reading 4 Kids) Have you ever thought about accomplishing a long trek over the Himalaya mountains? What to wear, what to eat, how to survive? How about you ask a friend to come as well for company?

Jess Butterworth Press Reviews

A richly atmospheric story of survival and hope set in Tibet and India, filled with friendship, love and courage. This young girl's thrilling journey to save her parents is an ideal read for fans of Katherine Rundell, Lauren St John or Polly Ho-Yen.

one of those stories that gives its young readers an honest understanding of some of the awful things that go on in the world, but balances that understanding with a narrative of survival and hope... (Jill Murphy The Book Bag) There are also chance encounters that strain credibility and require a HUGE leap of faith by the reader, but that’s basically par for the course in middle-grade books that chart epic journeys such as this. I can forgive the “convenient” plot twists, but I can’t get past these issues of basic geography. We're so small. Can we really make a difference?” Tash wonders but, at its heart, this novel tells the tale of her tenacity, and ability to do just that. It’s a thrilling fable about hope, and the importance of holding onto what matters, no matter what. With its derring-do charm, and vivid sense of place, this follows in the tradition of classic adventure stories, and comes thoroughly recommended for fans of Eva Ibbotson, Lauren St John and Katherine Rundell. ~ Joanne Owen I have even talked the head into a little revamp of the library so that we can display them properly!The chapters are short and punchy. The opening of each is decorated with a wonderful mandala styled illustration, it’s like gathering a collection of glorious rewards as you continue with Tash and Sam on their journey. Oh, and what is environmentally key about Tibet right now? It is the source of fresh water for much of Asia, so expect continued and increased oppression there: Thanks so much for your lovely message and for everything that you do with Book Wagon. Yourself and Bob are much cherished in our booky world and I personally really appreciate everything that you do. Book Genre: Adventure, Childrens, Fiction, Historical, Historical Fiction, Middle Grade, Realistic Fiction

An] adventurous tale of survival. Twelve-year-old Tash embarks on an incredible journey with her best friend, Sam, encountering Chinese soldiers and the Dalai Lama. It’s a great opportunity for kids spending the summer at home to escape to a part of the world they’re probably not all that familiar with.” This is a fantastic book which is relevant to today's crises: refugees, conflict and children growing up in war zones. Although there's danger, gruelling journeys and battles to survive, there is also hope, and hope is the essence of Tash's story. ( Type Writered) EVEEEEEEEEEEEE. My heart. Oh Eve, Eve, Eve. What a gentle soul. What a wonderful companion. A savior and an angel in the body of a large yak. A blessing. (Appa vibes?)

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Hello Yellow - 80 Books to Help Children Nurture Good Mental Health and Support With Anxiety and Wellbeing - I’ll fully admit that my own experiences might present me with certain biases in this case. I lived in China for several years, have immediate and extended Chinese family, and have traveled throughout Tibet. This thrilling adventure story is about kindness, hope, friendship and the power of one person to make a difference. All of which seem to me to be pretty good messages to send to the many young people who will undoubtedly be reading this book. Despite the serious subject matter at hand, Jess Butterworth writes with a great sense of adventure from the point of view of Tash. She is optimistic in her outlook and even though adult responsibilities fall to her, Tash is a real child at heart with a whimsical and naive quality that endears her to the reader. She is a character of hope and the reader gets the sense throughout, whether right or wrong, that everything will be alright in the end for Tash and Sam.