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When the Mountains Roared
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...
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...
282 pages, Paperback
Published April 5, 2018
23 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 25, 2018
I received this as a free ebook from Netgalley. This does not affect my review.
Jess Butterworth does it again. This is a fantastic book. I can't actually wait for it to come out; I'm taking my tablet in to school on World Book Day next week and teasing Y6 with the first chapter. I think I'll have to run a reservations sheet for when it does arrive!
It's a really believable book. Much of it is based on real events and Butterworth weaves those true incidents around a character that I found instantly likeable, and I think kids will pick up the poaching issue as something they feel very strongly about. The descriptions are really vivid and the tension works very well. The plot is resolved a little bit too easily for me, but given the age group this is aimed at, it's about right - thrilling adventure rather than depressing reality!
Jess Butterworth does it again. This is a fantastic book. I can't actually wait for it to come out; I'm taking my tablet in to school on World Book Day next week and teasing Y6 with the first chapter. I think I'll have to run a reservations sheet for when it does arrive!
It's a really believable book. Much of it is based on real events and Butterworth weaves those true incidents around a character that I found instantly likeable, and I think kids will pick up the poaching issue as something they feel very strongly about. The descriptions are really vivid and the tension works very well. The plot is resolved a little bit too easily for me, but given the age group this is aimed at, it's about right - thrilling adventure rather than depressing reality!
December 2, 2018
'The world isn't yours to take without thinking of other people... You can't just hurt living things to get what you want.'
12 yr old Ruby has been scared of the dark since her mother died 18 months ago. Her father doesn't talk about her mother much anymore and Ruby is scared they're forgetting her. And then she comes home to find her father and grandmother packing. She's told they have to leave Australia immediately to go and live in India. Ruby knows it's not just because her father has a new job. Still grieving, furious with her dad and resistent to her new home, Ruby gradually falls in love with Mount Durga and with the bountiful wildlife around the hotel her dad manages. Together with Praveen, a local boy, and an entire menagerie of animals including a baby kangaroo, Ruby sets out to save the elusive and beautiful leopards who inhabit the mountain.
This was a beautiful story about grieving and discovering your parents aren't gid but loving them anyway. It was about friendship and had a very strong thread of adventure. The setting was wonderful and full of authentic detail. And the strong conservationist message was delivered with warmth and compassion. I highly recommend this lovely mid grade novel. Especially sincd having met Jess Butterworth, I know a lot if the animal stories and adventures here have a basis in her own childhood.
12 yr old Ruby has been scared of the dark since her mother died 18 months ago. Her father doesn't talk about her mother much anymore and Ruby is scared they're forgetting her. And then she comes home to find her father and grandmother packing. She's told they have to leave Australia immediately to go and live in India. Ruby knows it's not just because her father has a new job. Still grieving, furious with her dad and resistent to her new home, Ruby gradually falls in love with Mount Durga and with the bountiful wildlife around the hotel her dad manages. Together with Praveen, a local boy, and an entire menagerie of animals including a baby kangaroo, Ruby sets out to save the elusive and beautiful leopards who inhabit the mountain.
This was a beautiful story about grieving and discovering your parents aren't gid but loving them anyway. It was about friendship and had a very strong thread of adventure. The setting was wonderful and full of authentic detail. And the strong conservationist message was delivered with warmth and compassion. I highly recommend this lovely mid grade novel. Especially sincd having met Jess Butterworth, I know a lot if the animal stories and adventures here have a basis in her own childhood.
April 21, 2018
It's been a while since I've read a book and been totally engrossed in the story; thinking about it while I'm doing other things and itching to get back to find out what happens next. Jess Butterworth's new book gave me this pleasure. The story of Ruby and her adventures settling into a new life in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas is a real treat. The book touches on so many complex themes - grief, family loyalty, animal poaching and the challenges of standing up for what you believe in. I started this book with high expectations after absolutely loving 'Running on the Roof of the World' and it certainly didn't disappoint. The kids at school are already excited about this book, just based on the fact it's written by the same author as 'Running on the Roof of the World'. I can't wait to get this book into their hands.
November 28, 2020
After reading "Running on the Roof of the World by this author, and finding it thoroughly enjoyable, I thought I'd try another book of hers. This one is about a family moving from Australia to a remote area of the Himalayas and finding that the leopards of the mountains are under attack from poachers. Ruby, our heroine, sets out to protect them. Another well-written, engaging novel, particularly for animal-lovers but recommended to all.
February 10, 2018
So taken by this amazing book! Set in the Himalayas, it tells the story of Ruby, who has to move suddenly from Australia to the moutains of the Himalayas in India. Her family is going through a challenging time, and have to rebuild their lives while dealing with loss. But Ruby is brave and full of curiosity for the world around her, and with her camera always on her, discovers the wonders of the wildlife and nature that surround her new home. However, something seems off about her father’s new employers and she decides to take matters into her own hands.
This is a beautiful tale of family, love and loss, but also of conservation and the love for our natural surroundings and wildlife that inhabit them. It’s heart warming and wonderfully written, and the perfect adventure story.
This is a beautiful tale of family, love and loss, but also of conservation and the love for our natural surroundings and wildlife that inhabit them. It’s heart warming and wonderfully written, and the perfect adventure story.
February 19, 2020
This book is a very heartwarming book because it’s all about this girl called Ruby who moves to India from Australia. Ever since her mum had died from a car accident Ruby has been afraid of the dark , of cars and of going to sleep and never waking up. She meets a friend called Praveen and they explore the wild and find Toad and Stinger killing a leopard and they have to do something about it. Ruby is a very brave girl and she has lots of pets including a baby kangaroo, a leopard cub and a border collie dog. She and Praveen become best friends and explore the wild and find out what’s going to happen to the last remaining leopards. If you like adventure and heartwarming stories then this is the book for you...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2018
What an absolutely brilliant story. Friendship, standing up for what you believe in, animals and adventure. I absolutely devoured this in a few hours. Ruby is an absolute wonder. This is going to go down so well at school!
October 15, 2018
Cute middle grade that celebrates animals with a feisty protagonist and short, snappy chapters. I really enjoyed reading this.
April 16, 2018
This beautifully told story is perfect for animal loving children, especially those interested in conservation and other cultures. It also deals with Ruby’s grief over losing her mother, her anger at her father, the difficulties of moving to a whole new country and of course the challenge of making new friends.
Ruby is a strong-minded girl with a passion of photography and living things. Her life has been hard over the last few years, but she’s still open to the wonder and beauty of her new home. I loved how swiftly she took to the mountain and the respect she showed it. There are leopards, of course, but that particular drama doesn’t show up until quite late in the book. Instead there’s a baby kangaroo, a young monkey, hungry bears and resident spiders to deal with, not to mention some suspicious acting adults.
If you know any young readers who love animals and adventures then they should enjoy this. The descriptions are beautiful, Ruby’s spirit is admirable (if slightly worrying at times) and the underlying messages of family, friendship and saving the planet are always worth reading.
(ARC provided by the publisher via Amazon Vine.)
Ruby is a strong-minded girl with a passion of photography and living things. Her life has been hard over the last few years, but she’s still open to the wonder and beauty of her new home. I loved how swiftly she took to the mountain and the respect she showed it. There are leopards, of course, but that particular drama doesn’t show up until quite late in the book. Instead there’s a baby kangaroo, a young monkey, hungry bears and resident spiders to deal with, not to mention some suspicious acting adults.
If you know any young readers who love animals and adventures then they should enjoy this. The descriptions are beautiful, Ruby’s spirit is admirable (if slightly worrying at times) and the underlying messages of family, friendship and saving the planet are always worth reading.
(ARC provided by the publisher via Amazon Vine.)
May 11, 2020
I was recommended this book by a Year 5 pupil from my Part Ib and only just got around to reading it. It’s the story of a 12-year-old girl, Ruby, who has to suddenly leave Australia for India with a smuggled kangaroo! The story follows her adjustment to her new and more dangerous environment as her Dad tries to set up a new hotel on a supposedly cursed mountain, the discoveries and friendships she makes along the way and ultimately her overcoming her fears by solving a big problem. I enjoyed this book, and would recommend it to all stages of KS2, depending on their reading confidence levels. It’s pretty pacey, which is great for shorter attention spans, and this is mirrored by the quick and snappy paragraphs. Though I felt some plot lines could have been given more attention, I enjoyed the book and would readily recommend it.
February 4, 2018
The descriptions in this book are brilliant, evoking the jungle and the animals there. There's some horrifying descriptions of poaching, but that's something we should be horrified about. The ending was a little bit Scooby-Doo; I've marked down a star for that. But overall it's an interesting adventure story that shines a light on an important issue facing the world today.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
April 2, 2018
Sped through this book in a day and I just couldn’t put it down. I loved Jess Butterworth’s first book and I wanted this to be just as good. It was! A fantastic book of friendship, loss and conservation.
October 23, 2018
Simply beautiful. A gorgeous story about humans and their relationship with nature and wildlife.
An empowering story about over coming loss, protecting animals against illegal poaching and rescuing animals.
I thoroughly recommend.
An empowering story about over coming loss, protecting animals against illegal poaching and rescuing animals.
I thoroughly recommend.
July 17, 2018
A lovely story packed with animals, travel and adventure. Fans of Jess's first book won't be disappointed by this great follow-up!
August 6, 2022
This is a middle grade book and would be engaging and appropriate for that level. I enjoyed the descriptions of India and it was obvious the author has a lot of affection for India.
It was very animal heavy and the main character has a lot of love for animals but the book didn’t really make me feel this. For example a missing dog is not cared about until it is important to the plot.
I found the main mystery plot a bit superfluous to be honest and think it would have done better as a fish out of water story - focusing on the main characters winning over the locals and accepting their new life. The loose ends were tied up a bit too easily - especially how the ownership of the hotel worked out, that seemed… convenient.
I have no confidence in the dad being able to make a go of anything, he is full of poor judgement and bad decisions. The smuggling supergranny is unbelievable as well.
2.5 stars
It was very animal heavy and the main character has a lot of love for animals but the book didn’t really make me feel this. For example a missing dog is not cared about until it is important to the plot.
I found the main mystery plot a bit superfluous to be honest and think it would have done better as a fish out of water story - focusing on the main characters winning over the locals and accepting their new life. The loose ends were tied up a bit too easily - especially how the ownership of the hotel worked out, that seemed… convenient.
I have no confidence in the dad being able to make a go of anything, he is full of poor judgement and bad decisions. The smuggling supergranny is unbelievable as well.
2.5 stars
April 9, 2018
‘A stunningly compelling & evocative tale that surpasses far beyond the highest of expectations, carrying with it an all-important message of preservation; of the potency of poaching; and of being at peace with the wild and the world; that will live long not only in the minds, but also in the hearts of its readers.’
Following the very much deserved success of Jess’ richly atmospheric and accomplished debut Running on the Roof of the World, she returns on familiar ground this year with what I’m sure will be another roaring success, When the Mountains Roared.
Heralding her Himalayan heritage, real-life inspirations and childhood experiences, Jess once again vibrantly and beautifully realises the lush, mountain landscapes complete with their soaring scenery and diverse range of flora and fauna but this story starts itself in a wholly contrasting way…
My fingers come away deep red.
My breath catches.
Blood.
I wipe my shaky hands on my trousers. There’s a leopard out there, injured.
And I have to find it before they do.
After a sudden flashback – later on reencountered in the story – we meet Ruby; a lost soul reeling from the sudden death of her mother, with no control over where she’ll find herself living in the world from one minute to the next and wishing for some stability, some routine, some normality and somewhere to call home.
Unfortunately or maybe fortunately for her, she finds herself having absolutely none of that. As facing yet more domestic and homely upheaval, the whole family – that’s Ruby, Dad, Grandma and Polly (her dog) along with an altogether unexpected animal companion – have to leave Australia in the dead of night whilst evading Dad’s ‘friends’ whom he owes money to.
Another new start. Another new country. A new hotel?
Another new start for Ruby this time leads the family this time to the dizzying heights of the Indian mountains where Dad has taken over the running of a hotel but things aren’t quite what they first imagined. A dilapidated building that only serves to exacerbate Ruby’s fears and the surrounding wildlife is even more on the scary side as snakes and scorpions scuttle around her and a bear banging on her door in the middle of the night suggests. But all is not lost as Ruby makes an important discovery that could change her life forever…
The unseen, unscrupulous and often unknown world to many of us of the fight against poaching is highlighted and brought immediately into focus. This is where this book helps to provide a subtle and empathetic exploration in to the endless and immeasurable myriad of problems associated with it, whilst also providing the reader with more than a glimmer of hope in its resolution. This tale also has lots of educational potential and could be used in schools as a starting point for discussions on animal rights, endangered animals and the risk of extinction which is particularly relevant at this recent time of the death of the last male northern white rhinoceros in Kenya.
Ruby is most definitely her grandmother’s granddaughter all over. It’s her grandmother’s curiosity, stubbornness and willpower that’s been instilled within her that really makes Ruby take charge of the situation that she finds herself living in and to try her utmost, with her grandmother’s help, to seek a resolution. Ruby must not only fight her fears but stand up for what she truly believes in even when it appears that most around her, including her nearest and dearest, don’t. The future of these animals rests on Ruby’s shoulders.
Meeting Ruby at the beginning, she’s very much a different girl to how she started. She was subdued: a shadow of herself, pulled from pillar to post and fearing the utmost worst of every situation. However by the end of WtMR, she has begun to overcome her deepest fears and developed into someone who’s mother’s steely determination and spirit lives on within her.
Jess’ books are fast becoming favourites for many and she is ensuring that she is seen as a stand-out talent with her incredibly original style of writing. Culturally enriching, she really imbues her story writing with her own life experiences as somebody who’s been brought up in the UK but is still very much rooted in the Himalayas as well. I really gain the sense that writing a book – particularly this one – for Jess is increasingly more than just writing a book. Not only is it a way of highlighting a vitally important issue or a message but it is also about reliving the magic of moments that have become memories, of which I think your grandmother would be immensely proud, Jess.
That’s why it is such a stunningly compelling & evocative read that surpasses far beyond the highest of expectations, carrying with it an all-important message of preservation; of the potency of poaching; and of being at peace with the wild and the world; that I hope will live long not only in the minds, but also in the hearts of its readers.
If you’re not already a huge fan of Jess and her books, then I can guarantee that you certainly will be after this one!
Following the very much deserved success of Jess’ richly atmospheric and accomplished debut Running on the Roof of the World, she returns on familiar ground this year with what I’m sure will be another roaring success, When the Mountains Roared.
Heralding her Himalayan heritage, real-life inspirations and childhood experiences, Jess once again vibrantly and beautifully realises the lush, mountain landscapes complete with their soaring scenery and diverse range of flora and fauna but this story starts itself in a wholly contrasting way…
My fingers come away deep red.
My breath catches.
Blood.
I wipe my shaky hands on my trousers. There’s a leopard out there, injured.
And I have to find it before they do.
After a sudden flashback – later on reencountered in the story – we meet Ruby; a lost soul reeling from the sudden death of her mother, with no control over where she’ll find herself living in the world from one minute to the next and wishing for some stability, some routine, some normality and somewhere to call home.
Unfortunately or maybe fortunately for her, she finds herself having absolutely none of that. As facing yet more domestic and homely upheaval, the whole family – that’s Ruby, Dad, Grandma and Polly (her dog) along with an altogether unexpected animal companion – have to leave Australia in the dead of night whilst evading Dad’s ‘friends’ whom he owes money to.
Another new start. Another new country. A new hotel?
Another new start for Ruby this time leads the family this time to the dizzying heights of the Indian mountains where Dad has taken over the running of a hotel but things aren’t quite what they first imagined. A dilapidated building that only serves to exacerbate Ruby’s fears and the surrounding wildlife is even more on the scary side as snakes and scorpions scuttle around her and a bear banging on her door in the middle of the night suggests. But all is not lost as Ruby makes an important discovery that could change her life forever…
The unseen, unscrupulous and often unknown world to many of us of the fight against poaching is highlighted and brought immediately into focus. This is where this book helps to provide a subtle and empathetic exploration in to the endless and immeasurable myriad of problems associated with it, whilst also providing the reader with more than a glimmer of hope in its resolution. This tale also has lots of educational potential and could be used in schools as a starting point for discussions on animal rights, endangered animals and the risk of extinction which is particularly relevant at this recent time of the death of the last male northern white rhinoceros in Kenya.
Ruby is most definitely her grandmother’s granddaughter all over. It’s her grandmother’s curiosity, stubbornness and willpower that’s been instilled within her that really makes Ruby take charge of the situation that she finds herself living in and to try her utmost, with her grandmother’s help, to seek a resolution. Ruby must not only fight her fears but stand up for what she truly believes in even when it appears that most around her, including her nearest and dearest, don’t. The future of these animals rests on Ruby’s shoulders.
Meeting Ruby at the beginning, she’s very much a different girl to how she started. She was subdued: a shadow of herself, pulled from pillar to post and fearing the utmost worst of every situation. However by the end of WtMR, she has begun to overcome her deepest fears and developed into someone who’s mother’s steely determination and spirit lives on within her.
Jess’ books are fast becoming favourites for many and she is ensuring that she is seen as a stand-out talent with her incredibly original style of writing. Culturally enriching, she really imbues her story writing with her own life experiences as somebody who’s been brought up in the UK but is still very much rooted in the Himalayas as well. I really gain the sense that writing a book – particularly this one – for Jess is increasingly more than just writing a book. Not only is it a way of highlighting a vitally important issue or a message but it is also about reliving the magic of moments that have become memories, of which I think your grandmother would be immensely proud, Jess.
That’s why it is such a stunningly compelling & evocative read that surpasses far beyond the highest of expectations, carrying with it an all-important message of preservation; of the potency of poaching; and of being at peace with the wild and the world; that I hope will live long not only in the minds, but also in the hearts of its readers.
If you’re not already a huge fan of Jess and her books, then I can guarantee that you certainly will be after this one!
March 3, 2024
Really good read. The writing was excellent and the plot was exciting. Enjoyed the quick chapters and how pacy it was. Liked the setting of Australia (though brief) and India. All the different animals were great, love Joey the kangaroo. Definitely a great read for 9-11 year olds.
August 10, 2018
If you like animals, mysteries or culture, this book is for you. Read this splendid Middle Grade novel and don’t miss out on:
#1 The Leopards
123RF Stock Photo Copyright: aoosthuizen / 123RF Stock Photo
#2 The Setting
This book has it all - the mesmerizing wildlife of Himachal Pradesh in North India, from the butterfly migration to the giant rhododendron trees, the magical Holi festival, the ancient Ganges River, Bollywood ...
Honestly, how many Middle Grade books set in contemporary India can you find out there?
#3 Ruby Veer’s Family Drama
Take a peek inside the Veer family, who arrive to India with "a border collie, a joey kangaroo and a taxidermy python":
Ruby is the determined daughter who tries to make the most of what life gives her, even when things go wrong or turn dangerous. She loves wildlife and photography. She’s scared of cars, the dark, and falling asleep. Don’t blame her. She has real, striking reasons for her fears.
Rahul is the secretive father who drags his family out of their home in the middle of the night and takes them all the way from Australia to India. Although he always shows his affection for Ruby, he sometimes hides the truth. He has his own reasons for being scared, for being ashamed.
Grandma – You must meet the grandmother! She’s an amazing, supportive hero. She’s the one who would go to extremes just to save an orphaned joey kangaroo. But can she always be there for Ruby?
Jean is the mother who is no longer there. She died some time ago, but her memories still haunt the family, from her taxidermy python (She used to study ophiology aka snakes) to her favorite color (orange). How will Ruby ever let go?
#4 The Mystery of ‘Mountain View Hotel’
Ruby’s new home in India is a run-down hotel up on Durga mountain. Her dad is the new hotel manager, and he’s supposed to fix everything and get the hotel in good working condition.
But no one from the nearby village is willing to go up to the hotel to help. Is the hotel haunted? Is the mountain cursed? Or is it something far more horrible than old wives’ tales?
#5 Ruby’s Friendship Drama
Ruby becomes friends with Praveen, the Gaddi shepherd boy who keeps baby goats in his coat’s pockets, who teaches her Hindi words, who gives her porcupine quills to fasten her hair. Things can’t go wrong, can they? But they do.
#6 The Ending
Believe me, events build up into a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that ends with a roaring climax.
And guess what eventually happens to the hotel?
#7 The Writing
The book is told from Ruby's point view, and her voice is very engaging.
The prose is tight. The pacing is impeccable. The descriptions are vivid without being lengthy. Here's an excerpt:
"A loud rumbling echoes off the peaks in the distance. I watch as a cascade of rocks slides down a tall mountain. Only a few trees dot its rocky landscapes. A cloud floats in front.
Praveen follows my gaze. 'And up there is snow leopard territory' ..."
And this is my favorite sentence from the book:
"Golden green leopard eyes pierce into my own."
#8 The Story Feel
All I'll say here is that this book reminded me of two old movies that I adore:
The Amazing Panda Adventure - An American boy and a Chinese girl rescue a baby panda from Poachers in China.
Duma - A South-African boy cares for an orphaned cheetah cub.
If you've ever watched these movies, then you'll know that I'm talking about deeply moving, entertaining and important story concepts.
#9 The Book Design
Just look at that beautiful cover! I’m never taking this book off my shelf!
#10 The Author’s Note
Okay, maybe it’s just me being a fan of authors' notes, but don’t you sometimes feel curious about the story behind the story?
When I learned Jess Butterworth’s story for this book, I was completely taken.
Thank you Jess! Keep writing the books you write. The world needs them.
This review is also available on my blog: My Notebook of Beasts
#1 The Leopards
123RF Stock Photo Copyright: aoosthuizen / 123RF Stock Photo
#2 The Setting
This book has it all - the mesmerizing wildlife of Himachal Pradesh in North India, from the butterfly migration to the giant rhododendron trees, the magical Holi festival, the ancient Ganges River, Bollywood ...
Honestly, how many Middle Grade books set in contemporary India can you find out there?
#3 Ruby Veer’s Family Drama
Take a peek inside the Veer family, who arrive to India with "a border collie, a joey kangaroo and a taxidermy python":
Ruby is the determined daughter who tries to make the most of what life gives her, even when things go wrong or turn dangerous. She loves wildlife and photography. She’s scared of cars, the dark, and falling asleep. Don’t blame her. She has real, striking reasons for her fears.
Rahul is the secretive father who drags his family out of their home in the middle of the night and takes them all the way from Australia to India. Although he always shows his affection for Ruby, he sometimes hides the truth. He has his own reasons for being scared, for being ashamed.
Grandma – You must meet the grandmother! She’s an amazing, supportive hero. She’s the one who would go to extremes just to save an orphaned joey kangaroo. But can she always be there for Ruby?
Jean is the mother who is no longer there. She died some time ago, but her memories still haunt the family, from her taxidermy python (She used to study ophiology aka snakes) to her favorite color (orange). How will Ruby ever let go?
#4 The Mystery of ‘Mountain View Hotel’
Ruby’s new home in India is a run-down hotel up on Durga mountain. Her dad is the new hotel manager, and he’s supposed to fix everything and get the hotel in good working condition.
But no one from the nearby village is willing to go up to the hotel to help. Is the hotel haunted? Is the mountain cursed? Or is it something far more horrible than old wives’ tales?
#5 Ruby’s Friendship Drama
Ruby becomes friends with Praveen, the Gaddi shepherd boy who keeps baby goats in his coat’s pockets, who teaches her Hindi words, who gives her porcupine quills to fasten her hair. Things can’t go wrong, can they? But they do.
#6 The Ending
Believe me, events build up into a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that ends with a roaring climax.
And guess what eventually happens to the hotel?
#7 The Writing
The book is told from Ruby's point view, and her voice is very engaging.
The prose is tight. The pacing is impeccable. The descriptions are vivid without being lengthy. Here's an excerpt:
"A loud rumbling echoes off the peaks in the distance. I watch as a cascade of rocks slides down a tall mountain. Only a few trees dot its rocky landscapes. A cloud floats in front.
Praveen follows my gaze. 'And up there is snow leopard territory' ..."
And this is my favorite sentence from the book:
"Golden green leopard eyes pierce into my own."
#8 The Story Feel
All I'll say here is that this book reminded me of two old movies that I adore:
The Amazing Panda Adventure - An American boy and a Chinese girl rescue a baby panda from Poachers in China.
Duma - A South-African boy cares for an orphaned cheetah cub.
If you've ever watched these movies, then you'll know that I'm talking about deeply moving, entertaining and important story concepts.
#9 The Book Design
Just look at that beautiful cover! I’m never taking this book off my shelf!
#10 The Author’s Note
Okay, maybe it’s just me being a fan of authors' notes, but don’t you sometimes feel curious about the story behind the story?
When I learned Jess Butterworth’s story for this book, I was completely taken.
Thank you Jess! Keep writing the books you write. The world needs them.
This review is also available on my blog: My Notebook of Beasts
May 17, 2018
http://jessjustreads.com
When the Mountains Roared is Jess Butterworth’s second middle-grade novel, following on from Running on the Roof of the World. It’s a vivid, warm and atmospheric adventure set in the mountains of India.
Jess Butterworth is really skilled at capturing setting — I could feel the warmth of that blazing sun and the silence of the mountains. I could sense the seclusion and the danger that lurked. The language is descriptive and engaging, simple enough for young children to understand but detailed enough so that readers of all ages will be lured into this story.
“The mountain is covered in pieces of shiny grey slate. The same slate the roofs in the village are made of. I climb down and with a chalky stone I write a message to Praveen on some slate, before propping it against a branch in the tree.”
Ruby is a determined, courageous young girl, not afraid to face danger to save the defenceless. She does have more spine and more confidence than her father, who actually felt like a really weak, naive character.
He felt a little underdeveloped — a cardboard cut out of a character. He disregarded his daughter and while he cared for her, he didn’t come across as a very smart man. I think the reader is supposed to sympathise for him, but really I just pitied him and disregarded his character altogether.
“I see that his face is now drawn and worried. And I realise that’s the problem. I don’t trust him. No matter how hard I try, after everything that happened in Australia with the moneylenders, there’s still a part of me that doesn’t. A big part.”
When the Mountains Roared explores hope, courage and family. It also illustrates the importance of identity and the discovery of one’s place in the world.
Jess has blended so many different emotions into Ruby’s characterisation — grief, loss and wonder. Ruby is forced to navigate this new life, whilst also learning how to let go of her old life. She has to understand that she can enjoy life without her mother being in it, and even though life will never be the same again, that doesn’t mean it won’t be enjoyable and full of wondrous experiences.
Any children who have experienced loss will really relate to Ruby.
“My stomach twinges as I recognise the buildings and criss-crossing roads outside.
Perth.
It was where we had Mum’s funeral.
She died on a Friday, the same day the roses bloomed. She’d been watching and waiting for them to open every day.”
Jess Butterworth has crafted a fast-paced, entertaining story for children, set within the beautiful Himalayan mountains.
When the Mountains Roared teaches young readers about Tibetan and Indian culture. It also educates readers on animal protection and poaching, but that education feels like osmosis. Jess isn’t beating readers over the head with information, but rather, allowing children to learn the culture and the importance of animal protection slowly as the plot develops. This is fantastic for a children’s novel, because the last thing kids want is to feel like they’re *learning* when reading a fictional novel.
This is a really great book for middle-grade readers, and I actually think it’s a lot stronger than her debut. The characters are more evocative and three-dimensional, and the story is much richer and much more pacy. Young readers will love this story. Animal lovers will devour it.
Thank you to the publisher for mailing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
When the Mountains Roared is Jess Butterworth’s second middle-grade novel, following on from Running on the Roof of the World. It’s a vivid, warm and atmospheric adventure set in the mountains of India.
Jess Butterworth is really skilled at capturing setting — I could feel the warmth of that blazing sun and the silence of the mountains. I could sense the seclusion and the danger that lurked. The language is descriptive and engaging, simple enough for young children to understand but detailed enough so that readers of all ages will be lured into this story.
“The mountain is covered in pieces of shiny grey slate. The same slate the roofs in the village are made of. I climb down and with a chalky stone I write a message to Praveen on some slate, before propping it against a branch in the tree.”
Ruby is a determined, courageous young girl, not afraid to face danger to save the defenceless. She does have more spine and more confidence than her father, who actually felt like a really weak, naive character.
He felt a little underdeveloped — a cardboard cut out of a character. He disregarded his daughter and while he cared for her, he didn’t come across as a very smart man. I think the reader is supposed to sympathise for him, but really I just pitied him and disregarded his character altogether.
“I see that his face is now drawn and worried. And I realise that’s the problem. I don’t trust him. No matter how hard I try, after everything that happened in Australia with the moneylenders, there’s still a part of me that doesn’t. A big part.”
When the Mountains Roared explores hope, courage and family. It also illustrates the importance of identity and the discovery of one’s place in the world.
Jess has blended so many different emotions into Ruby’s characterisation — grief, loss and wonder. Ruby is forced to navigate this new life, whilst also learning how to let go of her old life. She has to understand that she can enjoy life without her mother being in it, and even though life will never be the same again, that doesn’t mean it won’t be enjoyable and full of wondrous experiences.
Any children who have experienced loss will really relate to Ruby.
“My stomach twinges as I recognise the buildings and criss-crossing roads outside.
Perth.
It was where we had Mum’s funeral.
She died on a Friday, the same day the roses bloomed. She’d been watching and waiting for them to open every day.”
Jess Butterworth has crafted a fast-paced, entertaining story for children, set within the beautiful Himalayan mountains.
When the Mountains Roared teaches young readers about Tibetan and Indian culture. It also educates readers on animal protection and poaching, but that education feels like osmosis. Jess isn’t beating readers over the head with information, but rather, allowing children to learn the culture and the importance of animal protection slowly as the plot develops. This is fantastic for a children’s novel, because the last thing kids want is to feel like they’re *learning* when reading a fictional novel.
This is a really great book for middle-grade readers, and I actually think it’s a lot stronger than her debut. The characters are more evocative and three-dimensional, and the story is much richer and much more pacy. Young readers will love this story. Animal lovers will devour it.
Thank you to the publisher for mailing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2018
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.
Without warning Ruby's mother is killed in outback Australia. Her mother, a herpetologist leaves a gaping hole in Ruby and because of this sudden loss, she doesn't know how to cope.
Ruby's father and grandmother are also struggling to deal with this loss and we see this in the first chapter when they race to get away from Australia and on a boat into India without warning - to manage an abandoned hotel at the foot of the Himalayas.
At first Ruby hates living in this remote location but as time goes on she makes a friend, learns about the mountains and sees how much help she can be to the local wildlife.
But despite this new found love of the mountains she soon discovers a dark secret that it hides - poachers. These poachers are on the hunt for endangered leopards and will do anything to hide what they are up to.
You will fall in love with the mountains of India and be in awe of the determination and strength that Ruby displays despite the loss she has just experienced.
Children will relate to Ruby and Praveen and their ability to see beyond what adults see when it comes to making a difference in the world.
When the mountains roared by Jess Butterworth is an excellent read, set out in small chapters and adorned with leopard print, young readers will find this book a page turner yet a mananagable one.
When the mountains roared is a great book for a class novel study as it links in India and Australia, animal conservation and natural disasters.
Without warning Ruby's mother is killed in outback Australia. Her mother, a herpetologist leaves a gaping hole in Ruby and because of this sudden loss, she doesn't know how to cope.
Ruby's father and grandmother are also struggling to deal with this loss and we see this in the first chapter when they race to get away from Australia and on a boat into India without warning - to manage an abandoned hotel at the foot of the Himalayas.
At first Ruby hates living in this remote location but as time goes on she makes a friend, learns about the mountains and sees how much help she can be to the local wildlife.
But despite this new found love of the mountains she soon discovers a dark secret that it hides - poachers. These poachers are on the hunt for endangered leopards and will do anything to hide what they are up to.
You will fall in love with the mountains of India and be in awe of the determination and strength that Ruby displays despite the loss she has just experienced.
Children will relate to Ruby and Praveen and their ability to see beyond what adults see when it comes to making a difference in the world.
When the mountains roared by Jess Butterworth is an excellent read, set out in small chapters and adorned with leopard print, young readers will find this book a page turner yet a mananagable one.
When the mountains roared is a great book for a class novel study as it links in India and Australia, animal conservation and natural disasters.
November 26, 2018
Ruby knows there is something wrong as soon as she gets home one night. But she never imagined the changes that are about to happen in her life.
Within hours she is escaping Australia and travelling to India with her father, grandmother, family dog and a smuggled baby kangaroo.
How can they do this to her? She is angry at her father for making this choice for her, but soon learns to love the mountain they are to live on. She makes a friend, photographs the wildlife and helps refurbish a run-down hotel with her family.
But strange things are happening on the mountain, and the local townspeople claim that it is haunted by an angry goddess. Will anyone ever want to work in their hotel, let alone guests come to stay?
Ruby becomes protective of the mountain, particularly the leopards that prowl the undergrowth. When she sees men behaving suspiciously she wants to know what’s going on.
Much of this story was written based on the author’s own experiences as a child in India. Ruby is a well-drawn character still dealing with the loss of her mother in a car accident, which has triggered other fears she must overcome. Her friend Praveen gives a young, girl-boy friendship and an environmental theme builds around the endangered leopards.
Within hours she is escaping Australia and travelling to India with her father, grandmother, family dog and a smuggled baby kangaroo.
How can they do this to her? She is angry at her father for making this choice for her, but soon learns to love the mountain they are to live on. She makes a friend, photographs the wildlife and helps refurbish a run-down hotel with her family.
But strange things are happening on the mountain, and the local townspeople claim that it is haunted by an angry goddess. Will anyone ever want to work in their hotel, let alone guests come to stay?
Ruby becomes protective of the mountain, particularly the leopards that prowl the undergrowth. When she sees men behaving suspiciously she wants to know what’s going on.
Much of this story was written based on the author’s own experiences as a child in India. Ruby is a well-drawn character still dealing with the loss of her mother in a car accident, which has triggered other fears she must overcome. Her friend Praveen gives a young, girl-boy friendship and an environmental theme builds around the endangered leopards.
June 30, 2018
Another wonderful book from Jess Butterworth. I enjoyed running on the roof of the world but when the mountains roared was even more engaging.
Ruby, her grandmother and her father have to leave their home in Australia and move to a hotel at the foot of the Himalayas. They arrive in India with their pet dog Polly and an orphaned joey. When they arrive at the hotel they realise what a job they have in front of them to get it up and running and ready to welcome their first guests. All the while Ruby uncovers a poaching ring and vows to save the mountain leopards.
A wonderful tale of the importance of conservation. All animal lovers will devour this book.
Ruby, her grandmother and her father have to leave their home in Australia and move to a hotel at the foot of the Himalayas. They arrive in India with their pet dog Polly and an orphaned joey. When they arrive at the hotel they realise what a job they have in front of them to get it up and running and ready to welcome their first guests. All the while Ruby uncovers a poaching ring and vows to save the mountain leopards.
A wonderful tale of the importance of conservation. All animal lovers will devour this book.
August 18, 2018
I read this in one go, next to the pool on holiday. I was enthralled by the storyline and Jess’ fantastic characters - right from the start I was committed to Ruby and her Grandmother’s well-being, when they are forced to leave their home in the middle of the night and travel to the mountains of India. The character and setting description immersed me in places I have never been, like magic.
July 30, 2020
A really enjoyable and page turning take of a girl suffering the loss of her mother and her shock removal fromAustralia to a foreign country. Lots of interesting themes dealt with here like love, grief and trust together with resilience, and wildlife conservation! Fascinating glimpses of wild India and the blossoming of Ruby as she embraces her new life.
August 6, 2018
This is quite a sweet story - engaging, entertaining and uplifting. Occasionally, it crosses the line to didactic - it feels a little more preachy than it needs to be.
That said, the message it preaches is certainly a very worthy one.
That said, the message it preaches is certainly a very worthy one.
August 21, 2019
I loved Swimming Against the Storm. It had culture, character, and adventure. I was hoping this might be a theme in all Jess Butterworth books and thankfully I wasn't wrong. When the Mountains Roared is about a girl traveling with her dad, grandmother, pet corgi, and a Joey from Australia to India. Just like Swimming Against the Storm, Jess gives you a snapshot of each character. These snapshots are so good you feel like you know each one and she's given you a feature-length film of detail. I am still not sure how she manages to tell me everything about a character in such few words. What I will say is that her villains are never as fully formed as her heroes but that is the only character drawback.
This book is rather turbulent and I couldn't help but stray back to the beginning of the book. At the start, we find out her mum was involved in a car accident as a truck hit them whilst driving. We then learn her dad is fleeing the country as he loaned money from bad men and then we hear nothing else about either of these two things. I have to say I was disappointed as this is a whole mystery in itself which we never solve. Was her mum deliberately driven off the road? Who are the bad men? AHHHHH. So that mystery played on my mind a lot throughout and was never answered.
In India, her dad is doing up a cursed hotel for his bosses. These two men are not nice and so a new mystery begins. Ruby is convinced they are poaching leopards on the mountain. By sleuthing, she is able to uncover that they are! However, her dad is being framed so how can she catch them out? To unravel the mystery of the poaching ring Ruby goes on some crazy adventures which for her age was rather surprising. She gets on a train all the way to somewhere she doesn't know, almost drowns and finds her way back! It did seem far fetched at times as Ruby seemed far too resilient but I guess that was part of the fun.
This book raps up in a scooby do fashion. Bad guys are caught and even though the evidence is thin against them they strangely confess to everything! Again far-fetched fun.
Apart from a few issues this book delivers great spirit and manages to build a rainforest around you whilst you read. The visuals she paints are wonderful and you can tell that India holds a special place in the author's heart. Great writing and a book which delivers a heartwarming adventure. It's extremely charming! However, due to some plot points, I have rated it lower than Swimming Against the Storm.
This book is rather turbulent and I couldn't help but stray back to the beginning of the book. At the start, we find out her mum was involved in a car accident as a truck hit them whilst driving. We then learn her dad is fleeing the country as he loaned money from bad men and then we hear nothing else about either of these two things. I have to say I was disappointed as this is a whole mystery in itself which we never solve. Was her mum deliberately driven off the road? Who are the bad men? AHHHHH. So that mystery played on my mind a lot throughout and was never answered.
In India, her dad is doing up a cursed hotel for his bosses. These two men are not nice and so a new mystery begins. Ruby is convinced they are poaching leopards on the mountain. By sleuthing, she is able to uncover that they are! However, her dad is being framed so how can she catch them out? To unravel the mystery of the poaching ring Ruby goes on some crazy adventures which for her age was rather surprising. She gets on a train all the way to somewhere she doesn't know, almost drowns and finds her way back! It did seem far fetched at times as Ruby seemed far too resilient but I guess that was part of the fun.
This book raps up in a scooby do fashion. Bad guys are caught and even though the evidence is thin against them they strangely confess to everything! Again far-fetched fun.
Apart from a few issues this book delivers great spirit and manages to build a rainforest around you whilst you read. The visuals she paints are wonderful and you can tell that India holds a special place in the author's heart. Great writing and a book which delivers a heartwarming adventure. It's extremely charming! However, due to some plot points, I have rated it lower than Swimming Against the Storm.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2018
Jess Butterworth drew inspiration for ‘When the Mountains Roared’ from her own family stories, her grandparents’ travels to India in the 1960s and her own childhood experiences living with them at the foot of the Himalayas. She descriptively captures the sensory experiences, the diverse sights and sounds, cityscapes and countryside and wildlife encounters. Her understandings of the Indian way of life resonate here. The imprint of the leopard, from the roaring white silhouette and the rich yellow and brown markings of the covers that continue as bold chapter headings, set the scene for her message of wildlife conservation.
Coping with the death of her mother, Ruby is overcome by her fears, afraid of the dark, of travelling by car, going to sleep and not waking up in the morning. She lives with her father and grandmother in a rural hotel in Western Australia, it has fallen into disrepair and her father has borrowed money from loan sharks to save the property. Desperate to escape from their problems they abandon their home, take only a few possessions, their collie dog Polly and drive through the night to Perth. Along the way they collect a baby joey which Nan hides in her luggage.
Nan’s afraid of flying so they board a cruise ship bound for India. Their tiring journey finally brings them to the bottom of the Himachal Pradesh and a haunted mountain. Life for the family is confronting, their new hotel needs a large amount of work, with the owners e involved in wildlife poaching. Ruby captures photos of the beautiful world around the hotel, she is an observer, listening to secret conversations and trailing her father’s employers. There are moments of fun and laughter, the colourful Holi festival, caring for Joey, watching Bollywood films, making friends with Praveen and dancing to Bollywood music with Dad and Nan.
Ruby’s bravery in tracking the poachers, searching for the elusive leopard attests to her strength of character, overcoming her fears and grief. With her Grandma and loyal friend Praveen they embark on a treacherous journey into the mountains, each show courage in the face of danger. The resolution brings both closure and hope for the future, the author concludes with a heartfelt message about the need to conserve and protect native wildlife and the risk of invasive species taking over the natural environment.
‘When the Mountains Roared’ by Jess Butterworth is a beautifully crafted story, where each of the main characters comes to terms with the loss of a loved one, an emotive journey amongst the beauty and splendour of the Himalayan foothills.
Coping with the death of her mother, Ruby is overcome by her fears, afraid of the dark, of travelling by car, going to sleep and not waking up in the morning. She lives with her father and grandmother in a rural hotel in Western Australia, it has fallen into disrepair and her father has borrowed money from loan sharks to save the property. Desperate to escape from their problems they abandon their home, take only a few possessions, their collie dog Polly and drive through the night to Perth. Along the way they collect a baby joey which Nan hides in her luggage.
Nan’s afraid of flying so they board a cruise ship bound for India. Their tiring journey finally brings them to the bottom of the Himachal Pradesh and a haunted mountain. Life for the family is confronting, their new hotel needs a large amount of work, with the owners e involved in wildlife poaching. Ruby captures photos of the beautiful world around the hotel, she is an observer, listening to secret conversations and trailing her father’s employers. There are moments of fun and laughter, the colourful Holi festival, caring for Joey, watching Bollywood films, making friends with Praveen and dancing to Bollywood music with Dad and Nan.
Ruby’s bravery in tracking the poachers, searching for the elusive leopard attests to her strength of character, overcoming her fears and grief. With her Grandma and loyal friend Praveen they embark on a treacherous journey into the mountains, each show courage in the face of danger. The resolution brings both closure and hope for the future, the author concludes with a heartfelt message about the need to conserve and protect native wildlife and the risk of invasive species taking over the natural environment.
‘When the Mountains Roared’ by Jess Butterworth is a beautifully crafted story, where each of the main characters comes to terms with the loss of a loved one, an emotive journey amongst the beauty and splendour of the Himalayan foothills.
May 25, 2018
When the Mountains Roared is the much anticipated second novel from Jess Butterworth after her first book, Running on the Roof of the World (available here and also featured on our Best Books for Year 6) went down a storm in Key Stage 2 classrooms.
The physical book itself is actually really beautiful both inside and out, with its stunning cover by Rob Biddulph and the leopard-print design of its pages. This is the kind of book that makes you want to stop and admire it, to flick through the pages and to just enjoy holding it. Although I was kindly sent a digital proof by the publisher, I was keen to purchase the book itself too because its design is just so appealing.
The story follows Ruby, a twelve-year-old girl who is grieving the recent death of her mother and has become filled with fear since her mother’s car accident. Ruby is an animal lover and she enjoys photographing wildlife. At the beginning of the story, Ruby faces the devastating news that her Dad is planning to uproot them from their Australian home and relocate to a remote mountain village in India to run a hotel.
Unimpressed when she arrives in her new home, Ruby does manage to find some things to like about the foreign setting. Jess Butterworth’s descriptions of the mountain landscape are beautiful and evocative as nature-lover Ruby takes in the new smells, colours and wildlife of the Himalayan habitat. Although the hotel is quite isolated, Ruby quickly befriends a local shepherd boy called Praveen, who shares Ruby’s admiration of the natural world.
Together, Ruby and Praveen set about to protect the few remaining leopards from the threat of poachers. The story is full of danger and adventure as Ruby undertakes a perilous trek through the mountains and comes face to face with some very hostile poachers, putting aside her own fears in order to save the leopards.
This is an atmospheric and enticing story that explores an important theme about preservation and it will appeal to readers in Years 4-6.
Many thanks to the publisher for kindly sending me a digital proof copy of this book via Netgalley.
The physical book itself is actually really beautiful both inside and out, with its stunning cover by Rob Biddulph and the leopard-print design of its pages. This is the kind of book that makes you want to stop and admire it, to flick through the pages and to just enjoy holding it. Although I was kindly sent a digital proof by the publisher, I was keen to purchase the book itself too because its design is just so appealing.
The story follows Ruby, a twelve-year-old girl who is grieving the recent death of her mother and has become filled with fear since her mother’s car accident. Ruby is an animal lover and she enjoys photographing wildlife. At the beginning of the story, Ruby faces the devastating news that her Dad is planning to uproot them from their Australian home and relocate to a remote mountain village in India to run a hotel.
Unimpressed when she arrives in her new home, Ruby does manage to find some things to like about the foreign setting. Jess Butterworth’s descriptions of the mountain landscape are beautiful and evocative as nature-lover Ruby takes in the new smells, colours and wildlife of the Himalayan habitat. Although the hotel is quite isolated, Ruby quickly befriends a local shepherd boy called Praveen, who shares Ruby’s admiration of the natural world.
Together, Ruby and Praveen set about to protect the few remaining leopards from the threat of poachers. The story is full of danger and adventure as Ruby undertakes a perilous trek through the mountains and comes face to face with some very hostile poachers, putting aside her own fears in order to save the leopards.
This is an atmospheric and enticing story that explores an important theme about preservation and it will appeal to readers in Years 4-6.
Many thanks to the publisher for kindly sending me a digital proof copy of this book via Netgalley.
April 3, 2018
Given how much I loved Running on the Roof of the World, this book had to meet high expectations, and it most definitely did for me. It tells the story of Ruby, as her family move very suddenly from Australia to India, taking with them a collie dog called Polly and a smuggled kangaroo joey, and stumbling upon a sinister poaching plot on the mountains on their arrival. Ruby was a superb heroine, and I defy anyone not to love her; I thought she was incredibly brave both in her efforts to investigate/halt the poaching operation and in coming to terms with her grief and guilt over her mum`s tragic death prior to the beginning of the book. Another aspect of her I loved was her love for animals, which shone through on every page, as I really related to that feeling. On that note, the animal characters are beyond endearing and lovely, and I loved each and every one, including both of those I`ve mentioned already, a leopard cub, some adorable goats and several others. Another character who I absolutely have to mention is Ruby`s wise, witty and generally wonderful Grandma. 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 during the time I spent with it as I just had to learn the fate of the characters as soon as possible. Yet another triumph from an author who is fast becoming an all time favourite of mine.5/5
October 15, 2020
I read this book for my English assignment. I found the book very thoughtful and full of adventure. The story was filled excitement as well as sadness. I enjoyed how the book was based off of the author's grandmother and how it can be easily related to experience. I would recommend this book to a year four class and above but ensure that you know the class well as there are moments that can be quite traumatic for some children. However, I think that this makes the story very relatable and easy for some children to compare their own experiences. Moreover, I enjoyed the book but felt as thought the ended was quite rushed. Despite this, I would recommend the book.
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