When the Mountains Roared

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What to expect

A vivid, warm and atmospheric adventure set in the mountains of India, about a girl who is determined to protect the wild leopards of the mountain from poachers, perfect for fans of Katherine Rundell.

I thought we'd live here forever ... but then, I thought Mum would be here forever too.

When Ruby's dad uproots her from Australia to set up a hotel in the mountains of India, Ruby is devastated. Not only are they living in a run-down building in the middle of the wilderness surrounded by scorpions, bears and leopards, but Ruby is sure that India will never truly feel like home - not without her mum there.

Ever since her mum died, Ruby has been afraid. Of cars. Of the dark. Of going to sleep and never waking up.

But then the last remaining leopards of the mountain are threatened and everything changes. Ruby vows to do all she can to protect them - if she can only overcome her fears...

(P)2020 Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Critics Review

Jess Butterworth's love for the landscape and the animals she describes shines through, creating an immersive world for Ruby and the reader to explore and fall in love with.
The Scotsman
I can see this book becoming a classroom staple for more than the mesmerising snapshots of India. The determined characters who persevere, who show a growing independence of mind to overcome difficulties and strive to achieve a goal by working together, all while being part of a spellbinding story, make this a must-have book for every classroom of 9- to 12-year olds.
Times Educational Supplement
Jess Butterworth's love for the landscape and the animals she describes shines through, creating an immersive world for Ruby and the reader to explore and fall in love with.
The Scotsman
Just finished this absolutely mesmerising novel set in the Himalayas, about family, grief, the importance of preserving our wildlife, and a baby kangaroo called Joey. Can't wait for this book to be out in the wild in April!
Mariana Mouzinho - Seven Stories
A stunningly compelling & evocative tale [...] carrying with it an all-important message of preservation; of the potency of poaching; and of being at peace with the wild & the world; that will live long not only in the minds, but also in the hearts of its readers.
The Reader Teacher
...beautifully crafted tale of 'standing up and being counted'.
Literary Curriculum
Ruby is brave and gutsy, standing up for what she believes in.
A Little but a Lot
Butterworth's vivid, energetic descriptions of the Himalayan landscape and wildlife are wonderful to read. Wrought from her own childhood memories and family stories handed down from her grandparents, you can really feel the abiding love and passion that sit at the heart of this book.
The Book Bag
I loved this book, which is about loss and starting a new life somewhere new, and about animals. Lots of them.
The Book Witch
Jess's vivid, stunning prose brings the Indian setting to life in a way that makes you feel as if you`re in the world alongside the characters; experiencing every sense and emotion they are. I cried more than once reading this, and I could barely put it down [...] Yet another triumph from an author who is fast becoming an all time favourite of mine.
Golden Books Girl
Ruby taught me about the importance of friendship and family, love, kindness, protecting animals and the planet, and having courage. I loved the message behind the story -- if there is something you care for and it is in danger, do anything you can to help it.
National Geographic Kids

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