What do you think?
Rate this book
Running on the Roof of the World
Join 12-year-old Tash and her best friend Sam in a story of adventure, survival and hope, set in the vivid Himalayan landscape of Tibet and India. Filled with friendship, love and courage, this young girl's thrilling journey to save her parents is an ideal read for children aged 9-12.
There are two words that are banned in Tibet. Two words that can get you locked in prison without a second thought. I watch the soldiers tramping away and call the words after them. 'Dalai Lama.'
Tash has to follow many rules to survive in Tibet, a country occupied by Chinese soldiers. But when a man sets himself on fire in protest and soldiers seize Tash's parents, she and her best friend Sam must break the rules. They are determined to escape Tibet - and seek the help of the Dalai Lama himself in India.
And so, with a backpack of Tash's father's mysterious papers and two trusty yaks by their side, their extraordinary journey across the mountains begins.
There are two words that are banned in Tibet. Two words that can get you locked in prison without a second thought. I watch the soldiers tramping away and call the words after them. 'Dalai Lama.'
Tash has to follow many rules to survive in Tibet, a country occupied by Chinese soldiers. But when a man sets himself on fire in protest and soldiers seize Tash's parents, she and her best friend Sam must break the rules. They are determined to escape Tibet - and seek the help of the Dalai Lama himself in India.
And so, with a backpack of Tash's father's mysterious papers and two trusty yaks by their side, their extraordinary journey across the mountains begins.
280 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2017
77 people are currently reading
1403 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 8, 2017
This is a great debut: a race for safety set against a fraught political backdrop of protests and arrests in occupied Tibet. Tash and Sam must escape across the mountains after a protest leads to their families being captured by the army.
The prose is short, sharp and choppy - but beautiful and evocative at the same time. Jess gives a real sense of the setting, and particularly of the animals, with the two yaks being a real highlight.
An informative and gripping story for older MG readers with an interest in the wider world.
Thanks to Orion for sending me an Advanced Reader Copy.
The prose is short, sharp and choppy - but beautiful and evocative at the same time. Jess gives a real sense of the setting, and particularly of the animals, with the two yaks being a real highlight.
An informative and gripping story for older MG readers with an interest in the wider world.
Thanks to Orion for sending me an Advanced Reader Copy.
July 7, 2021
I had no idea what this book was about, but as I am in a group of English teachers who are reading for teaching about the environment, the group suggested we read this children’s book (ages 9-12) and since I saw it only took 3 or so hours to listen to, I did it. It’s no fault of the book that I discovered it is not so much an environmental book, it's mainly an adventure book, where two Tibetan kids, Tash and Sam, escape to India to try and get the Dalai Lama to free her parents. Children crossing the frigid Himalayas with two yaks and no adults.
It is a book that has at its backdrop that Tash’s Dad has joined the resistance against the current government, and it is how about how kids can act for change. IF we can believe they could make this incredibly treacherous trek, do I also believe they would fairly easily get an audience with the Dalai Lama and also that he would be able to influence the political decisions of Tibet? I have my doubts.
The story gets off to a scary start as someone attempts self-immolation, as part of the resistance, and Tash doesn’t really know why. But over time, she gets a little bit of background about the resistance fighters and China’s incursions into Tibetan life. An oppressive regime.
Reminded me A Long Walk to Water and The White Rose (about a Jewish teen Nazi resister, Sophie Scholl), two stories about kids becoming more aware and active in politics. Or Tree Girl, or Forgotten Fire (YA, about the Armenian genocide) but to be truthful, I liked all of them more than this book.
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:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ2-J...
It is a book that has at its backdrop that Tash’s Dad has joined the resistance against the current government, and it is how about how kids can act for change. IF we can believe they could make this incredibly treacherous trek, do I also believe they would fairly easily get an audience with the Dalai Lama and also that he would be able to influence the political decisions of Tibet? I have my doubts.
The story gets off to a scary start as someone attempts self-immolation, as part of the resistance, and Tash doesn’t really know why. But over time, she gets a little bit of background about the resistance fighters and China’s incursions into Tibetan life. An oppressive regime.
Reminded me A Long Walk to Water and The White Rose (about a Jewish teen Nazi resister, Sophie Scholl), two stories about kids becoming more aware and active in politics. Or Tree Girl, or Forgotten Fire (YA, about the Armenian genocide) but to be truthful, I liked all of them more than this book.
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:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ2-J...
October 12, 2020
This is a great adventure story about two Tibetan children trying to escape from occupied Tibet and make their way across the Himalayas into India to ask the Dalai Lama (in exile) for his help. The author has spent many years living in and around the Himalayas, this adds to the authenticity of the story. A well-written and enjoyable book. I would definitely read more by this author.
September 2, 2017
Beautiful to look at, and easy to read, this is the story of Tibetan children Tash and Sam. Within the first few pages, a shocking incident sends their village into lockdown. The Chinese soldiers go looking for sympathisers, and Tash's parents come under suspicion. They are taken away and it is up to Tash and her best friend to get a message out to the Resistance, to help set them free.
I'd guess this was written with a middle-school audience in mind, and for the most part that seems a good fit BUT I feel the shocking incident, while not graphic in its depiction, might be too much for sensitive young readers, as it is referred to frequently throughout the story. However, I enjoyed the book for myself, and would recommend with this caution.
I'd guess this was written with a middle-school audience in mind, and for the most part that seems a good fit BUT I feel the shocking incident, while not graphic in its depiction, might be too much for sensitive young readers, as it is referred to frequently throughout the story. However, I enjoyed the book for myself, and would recommend with this caution.
May 2, 2023
This book is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, with a really nice end!
October 15, 2017
Loved this! Unusual setting, likeable characters, short chapters and a page-turner of a story. Loved the chapter title-pages too. I think this would be perfect for UKS2.
April 7, 2021
A good strong story with good detail and an enjoyable read. I do think that the scale of the journey as well as the landscape could have been expanded on. The depth and size of this, I feel, escaped the reader. I have to say though the first-person perspective was done with great effect. I would read more by this author and I hope to invest in a yak for Christmas as a new mode of transport for the busy motorways of this country!
December 8, 2017
Trigger warnings: self-immolation, gunshot wounds, oppressive regimes?
3.5 stars.
This is a solid middle grade story about a young Tibetan girl and her best friend trekking into India in search of the Dalai Lama. Along the way, they deal with soldiers and resistance members and not knowing who to trust.
It's compelling and full of action, but I had a couple of issues with it.
1. The characters are Tibetan, but their names are abbreviated to Tash and Sam. Which...it just made me slightly uncomfortable that their names were abbreviated to something that seemed Western. You know?
2. 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.
Still, it was fast paced and compelling and well worth the read. And the cover is gorgeous. So.
3.5 stars.
This is a solid middle grade story about a young Tibetan girl and her best friend trekking into India in search of the Dalai Lama. Along the way, they deal with soldiers and resistance members and not knowing who to trust.
It's compelling and full of action, but I had a couple of issues with it.
1. The characters are Tibetan, but their names are abbreviated to Tash and Sam. Which...it just made me slightly uncomfortable that their names were abbreviated to something that seemed Western. You know?
2. 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.
Still, it was fast paced and compelling and well worth the read. And the cover is gorgeous. So.
January 31, 2019
Living under the rule of a Chinese occupation, twelve-year old Tashi sees her parents taken away from her small Tibetan home. Suspected of being involved in an underground revolution to overthrow this rule or, at the very least inform the outside world of what is going on, Tashi’s parents find themselves imprisoned and her only hope seems to cross the Himalayas to India and seek help from the Dalai Lami. Accompanied by her friend, Sam and a pair of yaks, both set off across the Himalayas in search of support.
It is clear from the back of the book that Jess has spent time in this region and living amongst Tibetan culture. There was a sense here of a place which felt a little more real and lived in that I thought I might encounter. The characters may have felt a little Waternised at times and there were some odd plot holes and time-shifts (as if the book had been heavily chopped) but Butterworth does explore interesting questions of dictatorial rule and the pace was a strength.
It is clear from the back of the book that Jess has spent time in this region and living amongst Tibetan culture. There was a sense here of a place which felt a little more real and lived in that I thought I might encounter. The characters may have felt a little Waternised at times and there were some odd plot holes and time-shifts (as if the book had been heavily chopped) but Butterworth does explore interesting questions of dictatorial rule and the pace was a strength.
September 5, 2018
More like 3.5 stars although I think I would have rated this 4 stars if I'd been in the target age group.
Running on the roof of the world is an important story about oppression and not letting the evil done to you change you. If you're aware of the situation in Tibet - which has been going on since the 50s - then you'll understand the setting for this story. If you don't knowabout it yoy really should go and find out! There are plenty of news items on exactly the same kinds of invasion and occupation in other countries but a curious silence in the media about Tibet and really that needs to change. Despite the serioys subject matter this is an easy read, very fast paced and geared firmly towards it's target audience. It's an adventure story in the vein of The Silver Sword but I found it packed less of a punch emotionally than that book did. I liked the story but I never felt close to the characters. I think even as a child I would have wanted more character growth and more details about Tibet. The ending was perhaps a little too pat but I can hardly blame the author for chosing a note of hope from such a dire situation. I strongly concur the rest of the world should be listening to Tibet's cries for help.
Recommended for midgrade readers and fellow librarians and educators, or anyone who wants a not too unpleasant introduction to the topic.
Running on the roof of the world is an important story about oppression and not letting the evil done to you change you. If you're aware of the situation in Tibet - which has been going on since the 50s - then you'll understand the setting for this story. If you don't knowabout it yoy really should go and find out! There are plenty of news items on exactly the same kinds of invasion and occupation in other countries but a curious silence in the media about Tibet and really that needs to change. Despite the serioys subject matter this is an easy read, very fast paced and geared firmly towards it's target audience. It's an adventure story in the vein of The Silver Sword but I found it packed less of a punch emotionally than that book did. I liked the story but I never felt close to the characters. I think even as a child I would have wanted more character growth and more details about Tibet. The ending was perhaps a little too pat but I can hardly blame the author for chosing a note of hope from such a dire situation. I strongly concur the rest of the world should be listening to Tibet's cries for help.
Recommended for midgrade readers and fellow librarians and educators, or anyone who wants a not too unpleasant introduction to the topic.
March 19, 2019
When Running on the Roof of the World arrived in my mailbox, I didn't waste any time. I dove right in. It was just as good as I was hoping for.
When her parents get taken in for questioning by Chinese soldiers, Tash and her best friend Sam escape Tibet and head for India. In order to get there, they have to cross mountains, dodge snipers, and survive blizzards.
Survival stories are some of my all-time favorite middle grade books. This is a great addition to my survivor collection that contains other titles like Snow Dogs by Terry Lynn Johnson and Hatchet by Greg Paulsen.
I loved the adventure the characters went on, their strength, their courage. They set their minds on a goal and did everything in their power to achieve it.
The other thing I loved about this book is the culture. I don't think I've ever read a book that takes place in Tibet before. This book offers readers a little peek into their culture and the struggles they deal with. The author also included some quick facts at the end for curious readers.
Content: Perilous situations and violence.
Source: Thank you to the publisher for sending me an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
When her parents get taken in for questioning by Chinese soldiers, Tash and her best friend Sam escape Tibet and head for India. In order to get there, they have to cross mountains, dodge snipers, and survive blizzards.
Survival stories are some of my all-time favorite middle grade books. This is a great addition to my survivor collection that contains other titles like Snow Dogs by Terry Lynn Johnson and Hatchet by Greg Paulsen.
I loved the adventure the characters went on, their strength, their courage. They set their minds on a goal and did everything in their power to achieve it.
The other thing I loved about this book is the culture. I don't think I've ever read a book that takes place in Tibet before. This book offers readers a little peek into their culture and the struggles they deal with. The author also included some quick facts at the end for curious readers.
Content: Perilous situations and violence.
Source: Thank you to the publisher for sending me an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
March 5, 2018
I wanted to enjoy this more than I did, and it had potential, but ultimately, it felt rushed and it wasn't the book I was expecting and so I finished it disappointed.
This book introduced me to the recent history of Tibet, which I am grateful for as I knew nothing about it before reading this book, and to its credit, it prompted and encouraged me to find out more. That being said, I was expecting a 'journey' book, but the journey aspect of this book took up quite a short space and the book could have been improved by taking more time and being longer. Much of it felt rushed, and while the short chapters were pacey and kept you reading, there were times when I wanted to stay on a part of the story and explore it more. I appreciate it was written with a younger audience in mind, and I would recommend it to young people, but I did find it somewhat lacking.
This book introduced me to the recent history of Tibet, which I am grateful for as I knew nothing about it before reading this book, and to its credit, it prompted and encouraged me to find out more. That being said, I was expecting a 'journey' book, but the journey aspect of this book took up quite a short space and the book could have been improved by taking more time and being longer. Much of it felt rushed, and while the short chapters were pacey and kept you reading, there were times when I wanted to stay on a part of the story and explore it more. I appreciate it was written with a younger audience in mind, and I would recommend it to young people, but I did find it somewhat lacking.
March 11, 2018
I liked what the story was trying to be but something just wasn't there for me. the chapters were very short (sometimes a good thing) and they felt bare, like most of the detail about character emotion or setting or something wasn't written.
I can't explain what I mean but it felt like a short story, almost a traditional fairy tale, rather than a children's novel. if it had more detail I would definitely given more stars
I can't explain what I mean but it felt like a short story, almost a traditional fairy tale, rather than a children's novel. if it had more detail I would definitely given more stars
April 3, 2018
I docked a star because of Eve.
July 29, 2018
A beautiful, heartwarming tale of Tash and her best friend Sam’s harrowing and – at times – brutal journey from Tibet to India. An exciting, vividly-told page-turner of a story.
October 11, 2019
I decided to read this book in order to expand my knowledge of children's literature that is set in a different culture to my own and I'm so glad I did. Tash is a young girl that lives in Tibet with her family, but when her parents are taken prisoner by Chinese soldiers, Tash must embark on the journey of her life to try and save them.
One thing I noticed Jess does really well is sets a clear scene of what it is like to trek across the Himalayas; the deep snow, the freezing winds, even the soldiers hidden away to try and catch out those that are trying to escape. The power and importance of friendship is also show really effectively through Tash's relationship with Sam, complete with both ups and downs.
The issues between Tibet and China are known but often aren't the forefront of news reports and stories so I think putting a topic like this into accessible children's literature is so important because it allows them to see what is happening through the eyes of someone a similar age to themselves. It can open lots of doors, not just in literacy but in things like PSHE and history as well to further expand their knowledge of these issues.
An important addition to any classroom and after reading this book I am definitely going to try and find Jess' other books to add to my collection.
One thing I noticed Jess does really well is sets a clear scene of what it is like to trek across the Himalayas; the deep snow, the freezing winds, even the soldiers hidden away to try and catch out those that are trying to escape. The power and importance of friendship is also show really effectively through Tash's relationship with Sam, complete with both ups and downs.
The issues between Tibet and China are known but often aren't the forefront of news reports and stories so I think putting a topic like this into accessible children's literature is so important because it allows them to see what is happening through the eyes of someone a similar age to themselves. It can open lots of doors, not just in literacy but in things like PSHE and history as well to further expand their knowledge of these issues.
An important addition to any classroom and after reading this book I am definitely going to try and find Jess' other books to add to my collection.
April 27, 2018
This is a terrific story about a girl named Tashi who lives in Tibet with her parents in a small village. There is an act of social protest that causes a crack down from the military. Tashi's parents decide it's time to go. Except the military gets there first, so Tashi is left to find her own way to run to safety in India. Tashi is lucky that she finds allies along the way, as well as danger from all quarters. It's very exciting and kids will be able to draw parallels from Tashi's story to other people's refugee stories.
June 15, 2021
This book is good, though I though it dragged in some sections and I got bored easily. I think there should have been more action and I thought I was gliding through it, not being surprised enough. It was very predictable. Apart from that it is very very good. I like the part when Tash was running out of her house and being chased by soldiers, I thought it was very dramatic.
The book is about a girl called Tash and her parents get seized by soldiers. She and her best friend Sam resolve to rescue them. But to do so, they must escape Tibet, cross the mountain and seek help from the Dalai Lama in India.
The book is about a girl called Tash and her parents get seized by soldiers. She and her best friend Sam resolve to rescue them. But to do so, they must escape Tibet, cross the mountain and seek help from the Dalai Lama in India.
May 5, 2018
I read this book to my three children and we were all both moved and shocked by it. It threw up a large number of questions from my children which has made them want to learn more about Tibet, what happened there and why people are still leaving. The action was fast-paced and nail-biting with a blend of suspense, mystery and political history, but all conveyed brilliantly well for the young reader. Highly recommended for anybody wanting to learn more about the situation in Tibet and also those seeking a gripping read.
July 4, 2017
Boom. One sitting. Good little story for a spare two to three hours. Didn't like the short chapters, and felt it moved on too quickly at times. Still enjoyed reading it though.
October 14, 2017
Absolutely incredible. A total page turner, I didn’t want to put it down. The world described in this book is so immersive. I cried. I just adored this. 💛
April 6, 2018
It was good but not something I would normally choose to read. There was lots of excitement and on the edge of your seat moments. Good read for all ages.
November 21, 2024
I forgot update
July 27, 2019
A intriguing book, love learning about different cultures 😊
Read as part of The Reading Rush challenge
Read as part of The Reading Rush challenge
December 13, 2021
Book recommended by friend
Read in one day - well written book, great story. Good middle grade book.
Read in one day - well written book, great story. Good middle grade book.
November 20, 2021
Just wonderful as well as heart breaking.Sad that there is So much hate in the world,but this book shows love will always prevail.
April 11, 2021
Well. That was a bit intense, I’d say. This is a KIDS’ BOOK?
PT: RATW: Tibet*, children’s books (???), ice/mountains/COLD, human journeys, cultural heritage stories
WIL
1) this is exactly what I’m looking for with RAtW books. It covers a human story over geographic terrain in the context of some great conflict. THIS is the formula I’ve been seeking.
2) 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?)
3) Vive la resistance. OH YEAH. HECK YEA. A resistance plot!!! FANTASTIC. the underdogs are the protags. *chef’s kiss* fantastico.
4) the Dalai Lama. Happy presence. Good vibes. A figure to worship in times of distress. But also just a fallible person. Just an all around fascinating character that seems pretty well represented here.
5) POV and author choices. This was a wonderfully character-centric account of the troubles faced by Tibetan citizens. Very much in the same vein as A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park! This could’ve been written in any number of different structures/formats, but Butterworth was right to stick with the single perspective/single narrative/primary protag group. Solid decision.
6) the folk song and cultural pride. I will always love when families share folk songs and talk about what their heritage means to them. It’s so wholesome.
WIDL
1) can these kids PLEASE catch a break. It took me longer to read this than expected because it was just. So. Heavy. I mean, it is a book about suppression of people and like,,, military presence and kids traveling alone across mountains to find safety so I probably should’ve *expected* it to be heavy. But I didn’t. And I was *walloped* by it. I had to keep taking breaks to remind myself that the kids will probably be fine. I’ve read some heavy stuff, but this one really weighed on me. I just wish it had been broken up with some lighthearted moments.
2) epithets. This is more generally commentary for kids books. Characters in kids books are more entertaining when they’re character-y, which is to say, when they’re assigned an archetype. This characters were a little more nuanced and human. This is definitely a strong point for most literature, and it speaks to Butterworth’s abilities, but for kids, it’s a little less fun. Would’ve really enjoyed seeing more firm boundary lines on characters here. It def would’ve helped break up some of the complications of the human/political complications as well. Knowing that characters have a reliable set of traits is a security blanket for the otherwise free fall experience of kid-oriented accounts of turmoil.
NEUTRAL GROUND
1) I’ve been fascinated by Tibet for as long as I can remember. Loved finally reading about it! (Seven Years in Tibet has been staring at me from its spot on my shelf for way too long now.)
*yea yea I know it’s not a country. I don’t care. I’m including it as an extra region and treating it as a separate entity for this project. I love Tibet too much to skip over it as a region.
PT: RATW: Tibet*, children’s books (???), ice/mountains/COLD, human journeys, cultural heritage stories
WIL
1) this is exactly what I’m looking for with RAtW books. It covers a human story over geographic terrain in the context of some great conflict. THIS is the formula I’ve been seeking.
2) 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?)
3) Vive la resistance. OH YEAH. HECK YEA. A resistance plot!!! FANTASTIC. the underdogs are the protags. *chef’s kiss* fantastico.
4) the Dalai Lama. Happy presence. Good vibes. A figure to worship in times of distress. But also just a fallible person. Just an all around fascinating character that seems pretty well represented here.
5) POV and author choices. This was a wonderfully character-centric account of the troubles faced by Tibetan citizens. Very much in the same vein as A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park! This could’ve been written in any number of different structures/formats, but Butterworth was right to stick with the single perspective/single narrative/primary protag group. Solid decision.
6) the folk song and cultural pride. I will always love when families share folk songs and talk about what their heritage means to them. It’s so wholesome.
WIDL
1) can these kids PLEASE catch a break. It took me longer to read this than expected because it was just. So. Heavy. I mean, it is a book about suppression of people and like,,, military presence and kids traveling alone across mountains to find safety so I probably should’ve *expected* it to be heavy. But I didn’t. And I was *walloped* by it. I had to keep taking breaks to remind myself that the kids will probably be fine. I’ve read some heavy stuff, but this one really weighed on me. I just wish it had been broken up with some lighthearted moments.
2) epithets. This is more generally commentary for kids books. Characters in kids books are more entertaining when they’re character-y, which is to say, when they’re assigned an archetype. This characters were a little more nuanced and human. This is definitely a strong point for most literature, and it speaks to Butterworth’s abilities, but for kids, it’s a little less fun. Would’ve really enjoyed seeing more firm boundary lines on characters here. It def would’ve helped break up some of the complications of the human/political complications as well. Knowing that characters have a reliable set of traits is a security blanket for the otherwise free fall experience of kid-oriented accounts of turmoil.
NEUTRAL GROUND
1) I’ve been fascinated by Tibet for as long as I can remember. Loved finally reading about it! (Seven Years in Tibet has been staring at me from its spot on my shelf for way too long now.)
*yea yea I know it’s not a country. I don’t care. I’m including it as an extra region and treating it as a separate entity for this project. I love Tibet too much to skip over it as a region.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2017
I received a copy of this title from Hachette Australia for review.
A Top Book of 2017 pick
Ten Second Synopsis:
Tash and Sam have no choice but to run when the secret police come knocking and arrest Tash's parents. With just two yaks as company and a secret message to deliver, Tash and Sam set out over the Himalayas to India with danger at every turn.
I was somewhat hesitant going in to this book, simply because stories about child refugees having to flee their homes are by their nature, sad and distressing, and given what's going on in the world at the moment, I can get a bit hand-shy of books that are too real in that regard. Thankfully, Butterworth manages the story of Tash and Sam with great control so that while the dangers and sadness are apparent at every step, they aren't so prominent as to overwhelm the reader. In fact, Running on the Roof of the World is a remarkably accessible book for young readers who are interested in real life events and what's going on outside their own bubble, written in a tone that is both moving and dignified.
Tashi's parents are part of the secret resistance against the Chinese occupation of their village in Tibet. After seeing a man set himself on fire in protest of the occupation, Tashi is shocked and awakened to the danger that is coming toward her own family. After a surprise visit from the Chinese police, Tashi and her best friend Sam find themselves in a desperate dash away from the village, carrying a coded message from Tashi's father and the resistance...a message they don't know how to read or to whom it should be delivered.
The beauty of the book is in the simplicity and authenticity of the children's journey. After leaving their home in abrupt and unprepared circumstances, Tashi and Sam have one goal - cross the mountain pass into India and reach the Dalai Lama. The simple acts of avoiding patrolling soldiers, moving from one spot to another and deciding who they can trust, all against the background fear of what might have befallen Tashi's parents, feel very immediate throughout the book and heighten the suspense of the story. The chapters are quite short, which made it easy to take the "just one more" approach and dig deeper into the story. I also loved the mandala-style illustrations that adorn each chapter heading.
While the story eventually has a happy ending, it's not without loss and trial and Butterworth does well to capture the uncertainty of the life of those seeking refuge in a way that young readers can appreciate. I feel like this is a story that will stay with me for quite a while and not least because it deals with an occupied territory that is somewhat forgotten or just accepted in the West.
I would highly recommend this book as a classroom read aloud or simply as an engaging and moving story of two children alone in a hostile environment.
A Top Book of 2017 pick
Ten Second Synopsis:
Tash and Sam have no choice but to run when the secret police come knocking and arrest Tash's parents. With just two yaks as company and a secret message to deliver, Tash and Sam set out over the Himalayas to India with danger at every turn.
I was somewhat hesitant going in to this book, simply because stories about child refugees having to flee their homes are by their nature, sad and distressing, and given what's going on in the world at the moment, I can get a bit hand-shy of books that are too real in that regard. Thankfully, Butterworth manages the story of Tash and Sam with great control so that while the dangers and sadness are apparent at every step, they aren't so prominent as to overwhelm the reader. In fact, Running on the Roof of the World is a remarkably accessible book for young readers who are interested in real life events and what's going on outside their own bubble, written in a tone that is both moving and dignified.
Tashi's parents are part of the secret resistance against the Chinese occupation of their village in Tibet. After seeing a man set himself on fire in protest of the occupation, Tashi is shocked and awakened to the danger that is coming toward her own family. After a surprise visit from the Chinese police, Tashi and her best friend Sam find themselves in a desperate dash away from the village, carrying a coded message from Tashi's father and the resistance...a message they don't know how to read or to whom it should be delivered.
The beauty of the book is in the simplicity and authenticity of the children's journey. After leaving their home in abrupt and unprepared circumstances, Tashi and Sam have one goal - cross the mountain pass into India and reach the Dalai Lama. The simple acts of avoiding patrolling soldiers, moving from one spot to another and deciding who they can trust, all against the background fear of what might have befallen Tashi's parents, feel very immediate throughout the book and heighten the suspense of the story. The chapters are quite short, which made it easy to take the "just one more" approach and dig deeper into the story. I also loved the mandala-style illustrations that adorn each chapter heading.
While the story eventually has a happy ending, it's not without loss and trial and Butterworth does well to capture the uncertainty of the life of those seeking refuge in a way that young readers can appreciate. I feel like this is a story that will stay with me for quite a while and not least because it deals with an occupied territory that is somewhat forgotten or just accepted in the West.
I would highly recommend this book as a classroom read aloud or simply as an engaging and moving story of two children alone in a hostile environment.
August 23, 2017
This is a fictional story based on a very real issue – that of the ongoing situation for all inhabitants of Tibet. In this story, we see the imagined impact that it has on children.
The central themes of the story ring true throughout the narrative: that of hope and perseverance. Tash, the main character, is determined to reach the other side of the mountains and complete her journey, even if she doesn’t fully understand what is happening in her village and in her country of Tibet.
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.
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.
There is a real sense of danger however with treacherous climbs and potentially dangerous nomads among the obstacles between Tash, Sam and their destination. This is not to mention the overarching threat of being caught by Chinese guards and being sent right back to where they came from.
The attitude and outlook of the Tibetan people is reflected in many of the characters in the book and it’s refreshing to read. Even though these characters endure hardship and persecution, there is always hope and a lot of love. Despite there being a clear “villain” in the shape of Chinese soldiers, there is rarely if ever a feeling of ill-will towards them from Tash or her neighbours.
It’s a great message running through the book and a positive one for any child to read.
A note on the cover design and artwork inside the book. Absolutely stunning and some of the best work I’ve seen this year. Well done to all at Hachette for the effort.
Beautifully written and an accomplished debut.
The central themes of the story ring true throughout the narrative: that of hope and perseverance. Tash, the main character, is determined to reach the other side of the mountains and complete her journey, even if she doesn’t fully understand what is happening in her village and in her country of Tibet.
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.
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.
There is a real sense of danger however with treacherous climbs and potentially dangerous nomads among the obstacles between Tash, Sam and their destination. This is not to mention the overarching threat of being caught by Chinese guards and being sent right back to where they came from.
The attitude and outlook of the Tibetan people is reflected in many of the characters in the book and it’s refreshing to read. Even though these characters endure hardship and persecution, there is always hope and a lot of love. Despite there being a clear “villain” in the shape of Chinese soldiers, there is rarely if ever a feeling of ill-will towards them from Tash or her neighbours.
It’s a great message running through the book and a positive one for any child to read.
A note on the cover design and artwork inside the book. Absolutely stunning and some of the best work I’ve seen this year. Well done to all at Hachette for the effort.
Beautifully written and an accomplished debut.
April 30, 2021
This story features the conflict between China and Tibet, specifically Chinese oppression of the Dalai Lama's followers.
After their parents are taken away by Chinese forces, two children find themselves on a mad dash, with their two yaks, across the mountains to try to save their parents and figure out a mysterious code that needs to be delivered to the rebellion.
Note to Parents: The inciting incident comes when a Buddhist sets himself on fire, known as self-immolation. Students in 8th grade and beyond may have already been exposed to this form of protest, as it was used by Buddhist monks to protest the war in Vietnam, as well, and may be mentioned in the 8th grade Vietnam War curriculum. If your student has not studied this in school, however, or been exposed to it in any other way, this is an excellent teaching moment, and probably warrants a dual-read -- mom or dad on the couch with your kiddo -- to explain and explore while or immediately after reading.
Visit my blog for more book reviews, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
After their parents are taken away by Chinese forces, two children find themselves on a mad dash, with their two yaks, across the mountains to try to save their parents and figure out a mysterious code that needs to be delivered to the rebellion.
Note to Parents: The inciting incident comes when a Buddhist sets himself on fire, known as self-immolation. Students in 8th grade and beyond may have already been exposed to this form of protest, as it was used by Buddhist monks to protest the war in Vietnam, as well, and may be mentioned in the 8th grade Vietnam War curriculum. If your student has not studied this in school, however, or been exposed to it in any other way, this is an excellent teaching moment, and probably warrants a dual-read -- mom or dad on the couch with your kiddo -- to explain and explore while or immediately after reading.
Visit my blog for more book reviews, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews