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Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains
From the world of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls comes the historical novel based on the life of Junko Tabei, the first female climber to summit Mount Everest.
Junko is bad at athletics. Really bad. Other students laugh because they think she is small and weak. Then her teacher takes the class on a trip to a mountain. It’s bigger than any Junko’s ever seen, but she is determined to make it to the top. Ganbatte, her teacher tells her. Do your best.
After that first trip, Junko becomes a mountaineer in body and spirit. She climbs snowy mountains, rocky mountains, and even faraway mountains outside of her home country of Japan. She joins clubs and befriends fellow climbers who love the mountains as much as she does. Then, Junko does something that’s never been done before… she becomes the first woman to climb the tallest mountain in the world.
Junko is bad at athletics. Really bad. Other students laugh because they think she is small and weak. Then her teacher takes the class on a trip to a mountain. It’s bigger than any Junko’s ever seen, but she is determined to make it to the top. Ganbatte, her teacher tells her. Do your best.
After that first trip, Junko becomes a mountaineer in body and spirit. She climbs snowy mountains, rocky mountains, and even faraway mountains outside of her home country of Japan. She joins clubs and befriends fellow climbers who love the mountains as much as she does. Then, Junko does something that’s never been done before… she becomes the first woman to climb the tallest mountain in the world.
128 pages, Hardcover
First published February 25, 2020
5 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
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Rebel Girls
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
January 20, 2021
I will always read the rebel girls series because THEY DO NOT KNOW HOW TO DISAPPOINT YOU!
This one is awe-inspiring as was expected and I would have never known this personality had it not been this book! And I am so glad that #NetGalley made it possible for me to grasp and read this book #JunkoTabeiMasterstheMountains
And as always, it's the first half of the book that is so well written getting hold of your attention offering you the best childhood stories ever told!
I really like the simple, interesting writing style of the book. The illustration is just amazing! Every relevant point in the life of the personality has been mentioned with such warmth and enthusiasm that it's just impossible for you not to get motivated. Ever heard of teachers who motivate students without discrimination? Got it here. Ever heard of great fathers giving full support of their daughters' dreams? Got it here. But ever heard of a relevant someone in your life not supporting the same? Got it here as well! Ever heard of life threatening difficulties in the way of achieving your biggest dreams? Yes, the book is the answer to this!
Wow! And the bonus part?! I totally adore the love story! It's so like cute and inspirational!
One of the best books in the rebel girls series!
This one is awe-inspiring as was expected and I would have never known this personality had it not been this book! And I am so glad that #NetGalley made it possible for me to grasp and read this book #JunkoTabeiMasterstheMountains
And as always, it's the first half of the book that is so well written getting hold of your attention offering you the best childhood stories ever told!
I really like the simple, interesting writing style of the book. The illustration is just amazing! Every relevant point in the life of the personality has been mentioned with such warmth and enthusiasm that it's just impossible for you not to get motivated. Ever heard of teachers who motivate students without discrimination? Got it here. Ever heard of great fathers giving full support of their daughters' dreams? Got it here. But ever heard of a relevant someone in your life not supporting the same? Got it here as well! Ever heard of life threatening difficulties in the way of achieving your biggest dreams? Yes, the book is the answer to this!
Wow! And the bonus part?! I totally adore the love story! It's so like cute and inspirational!
One of the best books in the rebel girls series!
February 8, 2023
Another famous woman I got to know through the great Rebel Girls series. This is about a "small and week" girl who´s not into athletics at all but learns to climb even higher mountains in spite of her parents wanting her to marry soon in Japan after WWII. She knows it´s about setting one foot after the other and achieves a lot in the sports she loves. I liked the usual lovely descriptions and pictures as well as the additions for (not only) children in the end.
Thanks to Rebel Girls and Netgalley for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Rebel Girls and Netgalley for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2023
I never feel this enjoyment of reading memoirs before. I love Junko and her husband 😍 that's how a family should be. It reminded me that one tiny act that we may not know realized could affect someone in a huge way, like what Junko's teacher did earlier. It brought the idea of not giving up and bravery to start!!!
March 22, 2023
I just love the books in the Rebel Girls series! They highlight incredible women for young readers to look up to. I hadn't heard of Junko Tabei prior to reading this book, but I'm so glad Rebel Girls chose her for their series.
Junko Tabei was a Japanese mountaineer who was introduced to the sport via a class field trip, and her love for climbing grew once she went to college. But there was one problem -- climbing mountains was seen as a man's sport. Junko refused to let this stop her, and she eventually became the first woman to reach all seven summits.
Junko's story is one of dedication and perseverance. She didn't let gender norms stop her from pursuing her climbing career. It's so important for little girls to see that their gender is not something that should hold them back.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a free digital copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Junko Tabei was a Japanese mountaineer who was introduced to the sport via a class field trip, and her love for climbing grew once she went to college. But there was one problem -- climbing mountains was seen as a man's sport. Junko refused to let this stop her, and she eventually became the first woman to reach all seven summits.
Junko's story is one of dedication and perseverance. She didn't let gender norms stop her from pursuing her climbing career. It's so important for little girls to see that their gender is not something that should hold them back.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a free digital copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2023
This is a short, memorable story covering the life of a strong, determined woman who hasn't had an easy life but manages to conquer her fears and defy expectations and achieve heights (excuse the pun) in a time and place where mountaineering was frowned upon for women. She also becomes an activist and environmentalist. Great reading/listening for any age.
The reading of the audio was rather slow and I listened to it comfortably at 1.5x the speed most of the time. It was free on Audible and the accompanying pdf that came with it looked great and included diagrams and instructions how to tie knots and other practical and mental activities you can do from home relating to mountaineering in this 'chapter book' (a book that is originally from a larger book about other inspirational women).
In Junko's own words,
"Anyone can take up mountaineering. I started out as a little girl with no athletic talent. I just wanted to challenge myself and have fun. And I did."
The reading of the audio was rather slow and I listened to it comfortably at 1.5x the speed most of the time. It was free on Audible and the accompanying pdf that came with it looked great and included diagrams and instructions how to tie knots and other practical and mental activities you can do from home relating to mountaineering in this 'chapter book' (a book that is originally from a larger book about other inspirational women).
In Junko's own words,
"Anyone can take up mountaineering. I started out as a little girl with no athletic talent. I just wanted to challenge myself and have fun. And I did."
January 21, 2023
A great example to all girls. We can do hard things! The story of this phenomenal woman is inspiring and well told. I love her journey and passion for what she loved doing. This book also has some great information and fun activities at the end for anyone interested in mountaineering. Great book for anyone looking for some motivation to follow through on your passions and goals.
April 20, 2020
Simple and succinct, comes with a profound message that one can achieve whatever they set their mind to, despite what others have to say.
I had not heard of Junko before this, but now, I will not forget her name.
P.S: This was my first complete audiobook I listened to.
I had not heard of Junko before this, but now, I will not forget her name.
P.S: This was my first complete audiobook I listened to.
December 18, 2020
(Read as part of a box set of all five books in this series – review to come.)
This is the fictionalised look at the real life story of Junko Tabei, the first woman to climb Mt Everest, and how she started when climbing clubs refused females entry and other climbers were very sniffy about sharing routes, ropes and more with 'the weaker sex'. I say fictionalised as we're told so much we could not possibly know – even when someone has an itch or is short of breath – but for once, at the third attempt with this series, it didn't seem to bother me too much. I still think that as novels there needs to be a bit more narrative colour, and although there is a bit of darkness in her family life, the general progression of the book is permanently on the up (and I don't just say that because it's about mountain climbing). My finding favour with this book may have been because, unlike the previous two, Junko-san's was a story I'd never read about at all before. Her life with all its determination and copious peaks, of all kinds, is worth giving to a new generation, whether that be female or not.
This is the fictionalised look at the real life story of Junko Tabei, the first woman to climb Mt Everest, and how she started when climbing clubs refused females entry and other climbers were very sniffy about sharing routes, ropes and more with 'the weaker sex'. I say fictionalised as we're told so much we could not possibly know – even when someone has an itch or is short of breath – but for once, at the third attempt with this series, it didn't seem to bother me too much. I still think that as novels there needs to be a bit more narrative colour, and although there is a bit of darkness in her family life, the general progression of the book is permanently on the up (and I don't just say that because it's about mountain climbing). My finding favour with this book may have been because, unlike the previous two, Junko-san's was a story I'd never read about at all before. Her life with all its determination and copious peaks, of all kinds, is worth giving to a new generation, whether that be female or not.
December 9, 2019
I'd never heard of Junko Tabei before reading this biography, and I have to color myself impressed! Not only is her life story incredible, but the illustrations and writing style chosen to convey her story were so well-done, fluid, and friendly. I mean, get a load of that cover--it tells us so much already! She's successful, she's Japanese, she uses all sorts of tools in order to get herself to the summits--I'm certain there's more that can be derived from it, but that's from just the top of my head.
Tabei's story is likely to be inspirational for others--after all, she grew up during a time where girls and women weren't treated with the utmost respect, and for Tabei to break away from the marriage-and-kids script and pursue mountaineering? Well, it took a lot of guts. But she made it happen and achieved feats beyond her wildest dreams.
Overall, this was a great read depicting a lesser-known but totally important woman worthy of acknowledgement. Definitely worth the read, and definitely serves as inspiration to read more about this incredible woman!
Review cross-listed here!
Tabei's story is likely to be inspirational for others--after all, she grew up during a time where girls and women weren't treated with the utmost respect, and for Tabei to break away from the marriage-and-kids script and pursue mountaineering? Well, it took a lot of guts. But she made it happen and achieved feats beyond her wildest dreams.
Overall, this was a great read depicting a lesser-known but totally important woman worthy of acknowledgement. Definitely worth the read, and definitely serves as inspiration to read more about this incredible woman!
Review cross-listed here!
January 15, 2020
I was fortunate to win two books from the "Rebel Girls" series, published by Timbuktu Labs, Inc. "The Rebel Girls is an award-winning cultural media engine founded in 2012, spanning over seventy countries. Through a combination of thought-provoking stories, creative expression, and business innovation, Rebel Girls is on a mission to balance power and create a more inclusive world." This is the second book in the series, which is recommended for readers in grades 2-5, that I have had the great pleasure to read. I can't wait to share them with my third grade advanced readers!
"Junko Tabei: Masters the Mountains," a work of historical fiction, succeeds in these ways:
1. it communicates to young readers (not just girls), who don't necessarily see themselves as traditionally athletic, that there are many physical avenues to explore that aren't necessarily presented to them in traditional home and school settings, areas that they might enjoy and find they have talent for - in school especially, there is often pressure to be physically and athletically talented - often, students seen as athletically talented in traditional sports are revered - this was true in my day as well
2. the focus on a sport that most know little about, mountain climbing, is absolutely fascinating - it will inspire readers to find out more about the sport of mountain climbing - and there is definitely a "danger" element that is compelling and keeps the action moving
3. the exploration of another country and culture, in this case north-central Japan, is interesting and enlightening - I loved the double page spread of Junko Ishibashi's family eating a meal around the table!
4. the text is strong and is supported by wonderful, bright, luscious illustrations
5. the girl power element is inspiring, particularly in a traditionally male dominated sport - I also liked the exploration of expectations in terms of marriage, in this culture in particular, but the universal message here as well
6. the series, again, focuses on HERstory and chronicles a tale that for many will be new - another story that HIStory seems not to have told us little about
7. the end of the book contains excellent back matter: knot tying and balancing activities, a discussion of overcoming fear, and suggested resources
8. the presence of many strong thematic elements is noteworthy as well:
- "No mountain it too high if you put one foot in front of the other." (p. 4)
- the importance of a "present" adult, such as Junko's teacher Mr. Watanabe, in the life of a young
person - the scene where she, later in life, takes him on a helicopter journey to Mount Everest for his seventieth birthday is wonderful!
- "It's all right to be afraid. Fear is human. Just pay attention to what your fear is telling you and make smart decisions." (p. 59)
- the power of friendship
This series is just wonderful! Highly, highly recommended!
"Junko Tabei: Masters the Mountains," a work of historical fiction, succeeds in these ways:
1. it communicates to young readers (not just girls), who don't necessarily see themselves as traditionally athletic, that there are many physical avenues to explore that aren't necessarily presented to them in traditional home and school settings, areas that they might enjoy and find they have talent for - in school especially, there is often pressure to be physically and athletically talented - often, students seen as athletically talented in traditional sports are revered - this was true in my day as well
2. the focus on a sport that most know little about, mountain climbing, is absolutely fascinating - it will inspire readers to find out more about the sport of mountain climbing - and there is definitely a "danger" element that is compelling and keeps the action moving
3. the exploration of another country and culture, in this case north-central Japan, is interesting and enlightening - I loved the double page spread of Junko Ishibashi's family eating a meal around the table!
4. the text is strong and is supported by wonderful, bright, luscious illustrations
5. the girl power element is inspiring, particularly in a traditionally male dominated sport - I also liked the exploration of expectations in terms of marriage, in this culture in particular, but the universal message here as well
6. the series, again, focuses on HERstory and chronicles a tale that for many will be new - another story that HIStory seems not to have told us little about
7. the end of the book contains excellent back matter: knot tying and balancing activities, a discussion of overcoming fear, and suggested resources
8. the presence of many strong thematic elements is noteworthy as well:
- "No mountain it too high if you put one foot in front of the other." (p. 4)
- the importance of a "present" adult, such as Junko's teacher Mr. Watanabe, in the life of a young
person - the scene where she, later in life, takes him on a helicopter journey to Mount Everest for his seventieth birthday is wonderful!
- "It's all right to be afraid. Fear is human. Just pay attention to what your fear is telling you and make smart decisions." (p. 59)
- the power of friendship
This series is just wonderful! Highly, highly recommended!
May 26, 2023
Forever a fan of the Rebel Girls books, readers meet yet another inspiring individual in Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains. This book will especially speak to readers who believe they are not athletically inclined. This is the second book in the Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls chapter book series and continues to be an excellent gift for any young reader.
The story of Junko Tabei introduces readers to the first woman to climb Mount Everest, and a sport most know little about, mountain climbing. Tabei was the first female mountain climber to summit Mount Everest, which is an exceptional accomplishment for someone who was regarded as “small” and “weak” by their peers. Readers explore the world, culture, struggles, and achievements with Tabei and learn about conquering fears, personal growth, and never shying away from a challenge.
As with all Rebel Girls stories, the story features powerful text paired with beautiful illustrations. Another element readers have come to know and love is the extra activities at the back of the book. This story features additional text on Tabei’s lasting legacy and three educational activities designed to strengthen physical skills and conquer fears. Thanks to Rebel Girls, I am always learning about different and inspiring women with every read. These stories resonate with readers of all ages and inspire us all the same, even though they are recommended for readers in grades two to five. I would have loved a copy of this book in my advanced readers' bin at that age!
Thank you to Netgalley and Rebel Girls for an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
The story of Junko Tabei introduces readers to the first woman to climb Mount Everest, and a sport most know little about, mountain climbing. Tabei was the first female mountain climber to summit Mount Everest, which is an exceptional accomplishment for someone who was regarded as “small” and “weak” by their peers. Readers explore the world, culture, struggles, and achievements with Tabei and learn about conquering fears, personal growth, and never shying away from a challenge.
As with all Rebel Girls stories, the story features powerful text paired with beautiful illustrations. Another element readers have come to know and love is the extra activities at the back of the book. This story features additional text on Tabei’s lasting legacy and three educational activities designed to strengthen physical skills and conquer fears. Thanks to Rebel Girls, I am always learning about different and inspiring women with every read. These stories resonate with readers of all ages and inspire us all the same, even though they are recommended for readers in grades two to five. I would have loved a copy of this book in my advanced readers' bin at that age!
Thank you to Netgalley and Rebel Girls for an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 2, 2020
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains is a biography of mountaineer Junko Tabei aimed at middle grade readers. Due out 25 Feb 2020 from Rebel Girls, it's 128 pages and will be available in hardback and audio formats.
This is a biography which is factually based but also has allowed some (unspecified) changes for narrative flow. I liked that Junko wasn't naturally athletic or academically gifted. She worked for her progresses and when she had failures and setbacks, she picked herself up and tried again. Strength and conviction are a recurring theme in her life and I respect her determination.
Stories with strong and believable female role models are important and welcome for boys and girls alike. This is a well told biography of a subject who will be unfamiliar to the majority of readers. The art by Montse Galbany is colorful and engaging and illustrates the story well.
Well done and worthwhile. This would be a superlative choice for classroom, school library, gift, or personal library.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains is a biography of mountaineer Junko Tabei aimed at middle grade readers. Due out 25 Feb 2020 from Rebel Girls, it's 128 pages and will be available in hardback and audio formats.
This is a biography which is factually based but also has allowed some (unspecified) changes for narrative flow. I liked that Junko wasn't naturally athletic or academically gifted. She worked for her progresses and when she had failures and setbacks, she picked herself up and tried again. Strength and conviction are a recurring theme in her life and I respect her determination.
Stories with strong and believable female role models are important and welcome for boys and girls alike. This is a well told biography of a subject who will be unfamiliar to the majority of readers. The art by Montse Galbany is colorful and engaging and illustrates the story well.
Well done and worthwhile. This would be a superlative choice for classroom, school library, gift, or personal library.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 21, 2023
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains
by Rebel Girls
Pub Date 07 Feb 2023
Rebel Girls
Pub Date 07 Feb 2023
Biographies & Memoirs | Children's Fiction | Middle Grade
I am reviewing a copy of Junko Tabei Masters the Mountain through Rebel Girls and Netgalley:
Junko is very bad at athletics! Other students make fun of her because they think she is small and weak! When her teacher takes the class on a trip to a mountain. It’s bigger than any Junko’s ever seen, but she is determined to make it to the top. Ganbatte, her teacher tells her. Do your best.
After Junko's first trip she becomes a Mountaineer in body as well as in Spirit. She climbs snowy mountains, rocky mountains, and even faraway mountains outside of her home country of Japan. She joins clubs and befriends fellow climbers who love the mountains as much as she does. Then, Junko does something that’s never been done before… she becomes the first woman to climb the tallest mountain in the world.
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains is more than the story of the story of the first woman to climb Mount Everest., it's also a story about conquering fears, personal growth and never shying away from a challenge.
I give Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Rebel Girls
Pub Date 07 Feb 2023
Rebel Girls
Pub Date 07 Feb 2023
Biographies & Memoirs | Children's Fiction | Middle Grade
I am reviewing a copy of Junko Tabei Masters the Mountain through Rebel Girls and Netgalley:
Junko is very bad at athletics! Other students make fun of her because they think she is small and weak! When her teacher takes the class on a trip to a mountain. It’s bigger than any Junko’s ever seen, but she is determined to make it to the top. Ganbatte, her teacher tells her. Do your best.
After Junko's first trip she becomes a Mountaineer in body as well as in Spirit. She climbs snowy mountains, rocky mountains, and even faraway mountains outside of her home country of Japan. She joins clubs and befriends fellow climbers who love the mountains as much as she does. Then, Junko does something that’s never been done before… she becomes the first woman to climb the tallest mountain in the world.
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains is more than the story of the story of the first woman to climb Mount Everest., it's also a story about conquering fears, personal growth and never shying away from a challenge.
I give Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
January 19, 2020
Thank you NetGally and Rebel Girls for this digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Description
From the world of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls comes the historical novel based on the life of Junko Tabei, the first female climber to summit Mount Everest.
Junko is bad at athletics. Really bad. Other students laugh because they think she is small and weak. Then her teacher takes the class on a trip to a mountain. It’s bigger than any Junko’s ever seen, but she is determined to make it to the top. Ganbatte, her teacher tells her. Do your best.
After that first trip, Junko becomes a mountaineer in body and spirit. She climbs snowy mountains, rocky mountains, and even faraway mountains outside of her home country of Japan. She joins clubs and befriends fellow climbers who love the mountains as much as she does. Then, Junko does something that’s never been done before… she becomes the first woman to climb the tallest mountain in the world.
Well written story with good morals! I enjoyed watching Junko growing up and learning how to navigate in life centering mountain climbing as her goal. She fashioned life-long friends.
Description
From the world of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls comes the historical novel based on the life of Junko Tabei, the first female climber to summit Mount Everest.
Junko is bad at athletics. Really bad. Other students laugh because they think she is small and weak. Then her teacher takes the class on a trip to a mountain. It’s bigger than any Junko’s ever seen, but she is determined to make it to the top. Ganbatte, her teacher tells her. Do your best.
After that first trip, Junko becomes a mountaineer in body and spirit. She climbs snowy mountains, rocky mountains, and even faraway mountains outside of her home country of Japan. She joins clubs and befriends fellow climbers who love the mountains as much as she does. Then, Junko does something that’s never been done before… she becomes the first woman to climb the tallest mountain in the world.
Well written story with good morals! I enjoyed watching Junko growing up and learning how to navigate in life centering mountain climbing as her goal. She fashioned life-long friends.
February 3, 2020
The beautiful middle-grade biography chronicles the life of Junko Tabei, the first woman climber to summit Mount Everest. An unlikely climbing hero, Junko failed PE class in middle school.
Growing up in a rural region of Japan, Junko had no independent female role models in the 60s in Japan. Junko didn’t want to settle down and marry after high school, she wanted to attend college and live an independent life full of adventure.
With the support of her father, she went away to college in Tokyo, where she discovered a deep interest in mountaineering. Climbing mountains helped her feel at peace when life seemed too overwhelming.
Junko overcame her natural shyness, joined a climbing club, and eventually became a master climber. She eventually meets, falls in love with, and marries a not-so-traditional Japanese climber, Masanobu Tabei, who encourages her to follow her dreams.
Readers who love biographies will love this story of an ordinary girl who grows up to do daring things. The bright illustrations help support the text, and girls of all ages will fall in love with Junko and cheer for her as she overcomes obstacles and hardships.
Growing up in a rural region of Japan, Junko had no independent female role models in the 60s in Japan. Junko didn’t want to settle down and marry after high school, she wanted to attend college and live an independent life full of adventure.
With the support of her father, she went away to college in Tokyo, where she discovered a deep interest in mountaineering. Climbing mountains helped her feel at peace when life seemed too overwhelming.
Junko overcame her natural shyness, joined a climbing club, and eventually became a master climber. She eventually meets, falls in love with, and marries a not-so-traditional Japanese climber, Masanobu Tabei, who encourages her to follow her dreams.
Readers who love biographies will love this story of an ordinary girl who grows up to do daring things. The bright illustrations help support the text, and girls of all ages will fall in love with Junko and cheer for her as she overcomes obstacles and hardships.
February 11, 2023
What a superb message for our young people - you do not have to be brilliant at something to be passionate about it. Pursuing an interest with zeal and practising can make you successful. Junko was terrible at school sports. She was small and weak. On her first mountaineering trip, she felt useless... until she reached the summit and felt alive. In Japan, she was expected to marry after finishing school, but Junko wanted to try university in Tokyo and return to the joy of climbing. She did not find it easy, but she loved it. Her journey took her to some of the most challenging climbs in the world. What an inspirational woman and superb example of the importance of not giving up when things are difficult. Perfect read for young chapter readers. Beautifully illustrated throughout. Scan codes to listen to more great information and stories about more fabulous women on the Rebel Girls App. As always, expect some fun challenges and activities at the end of the book. You can find it on Audible, free for those with a membership, wonderfully narrated with great sound effects. #junkotabeimastersthemountains #rebelgirls #netgalley
June 14, 2023
Another fun Rebel Girls chapter book, this one chronicling the life of Junko Tabei, the first woman to climb Mt Everest. As a child, Junko thought that athletics weren't her thing, but after a class trip to climb a local mountain, her eyes were opened to a new possibility. This trip spawned a lifelong dedication to mountaineering in young Junko. She joined mountaineering clubs and climbed many mountains in Japan, even though women were not expected to succeed in this skill. Though not looking to marry, she finds love with a fellow mountaineer. With the support of her husband and family, she continued to hone her climbing skills, eventually going farther than any woman had gone before.
Junko's story is a great one, both relatable and inspiring. She set her goals and didn't stop until she succeeded. She didn't let the naysayers get her down, showing that women can do anything we put our minds to. This easy to read biography, like all Rebel Girls books, is beautifully illustrated and showcases the central figure's life from childhood on, in a format that young girls will enjoy reading. Would recommend.
Junko's story is a great one, both relatable and inspiring. She set her goals and didn't stop until she succeeded. She didn't let the naysayers get her down, showing that women can do anything we put our minds to. This easy to read biography, like all Rebel Girls books, is beautifully illustrated and showcases the central figure's life from childhood on, in a format that young girls will enjoy reading. Would recommend.
January 2, 2020
How I read this: Free ebook copy received through NetGalley
I think I have a new hero! Junko Tabei's story is really inspiring. It even sounds kind of like a movie story, and it's hard to believe this was a real, living person. The book is wonderfully illustrated and well written, I absolutely loved it. Plus, you can find all sorts of info about mountain climbing at the end (how to tie knots, how to balance yourself or how to even manage your fears!)
This is a wonderful book for kids, especially for girls who may be doubting their abilities or their strength. Very inspiring.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
I think I have a new hero! Junko Tabei's story is really inspiring. It even sounds kind of like a movie story, and it's hard to believe this was a real, living person. The book is wonderfully illustrated and well written, I absolutely loved it. Plus, you can find all sorts of info about mountain climbing at the end (how to tie knots, how to balance yourself or how to even manage your fears!)
This is a wonderful book for kids, especially for girls who may be doubting their abilities or their strength. Very inspiring.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
July 26, 2020
I am quite liking the Rebel Girls series as they feature women of colour who have overcome adversity and whom little girls can look to as role models.
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains is about Junko Tabei and how she became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest and the first woman to climb the highest peak on every continent (aka the Seven Summits).
*** #5 of my July 20th-26th 2020 Reading Rush Challenge - Read a book completely outside of your house ***
Junko Tabei Masters the Mountains is about Junko Tabei and how she became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest and the first woman to climb the highest peak on every continent (aka the Seven Summits).
*** #5 of my July 20th-26th 2020 Reading Rush Challenge - Read a book completely outside of your house ***
January 18, 2023
Rebel Girls are everywhere. Their stories encourage girls to take risks and to believe in themselves. This illustrated chapter book is filled with what makes the series a perfect one for young readers. Here is the story of a girl who learned to take risks even when she was worried or scared, and who was the first woman to climb the world’s tallest mountain. It is an inspiring title, not only for Junko’s athletic accomplishments but also for her character and caring. Her life was not always easy. For example, there were deaths in her family. She did not always feel that she fit in but she kept putting one foot in front of the other. Junko is a fine role model.
The author does a nice job of telling Junko’s story in a book that is filled with details about her life, a special teacher who believed in her, and her her home country, Japan. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for this title. All opinions are my own.
The author does a nice job of telling Junko’s story in a book that is filled with details about her life, a special teacher who believed in her, and her her home country, Japan. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for this title. All opinions are my own.
November 12, 2023
📖 : — ••• Junko Tabei masters the mountains
⭐ 3 stars ⭐
“And so what if I’m not a super-duper-mega-athlete? I can still put one foot in front of the other. If I have to take tons of breaks, or if I’m the last one to reach the top, that’s fine. At least I’ll have tried my best.”
This is the inspiring tale of Junko Tabei, the first woman to reach the summit of Mt. Everest and the first woman to ascend the Seven Summits, climbing the highest peak on every continent. She was motivated by her grade four teacher, Mr. Watanabe to climb more mountains like school and always stay hydrated. Indeed, the view at the top is always worth it.
I am really glad that she met the ever supportive husband Mr. Masanobu Tabei who encouraged her to pursue her dream of climbing the highest peak. Junko's determination to not give up on reaching the top is awe-inspiring. I'm glad to stumble upon this book. The world needs more female mountaineers who will always be at the top! We got this girl!
⭐ 3 stars ⭐
“And so what if I’m not a super-duper-mega-athlete? I can still put one foot in front of the other. If I have to take tons of breaks, or if I’m the last one to reach the top, that’s fine. At least I’ll have tried my best.”
This is the inspiring tale of Junko Tabei, the first woman to reach the summit of Mt. Everest and the first woman to ascend the Seven Summits, climbing the highest peak on every continent. She was motivated by her grade four teacher, Mr. Watanabe to climb more mountains like school and always stay hydrated. Indeed, the view at the top is always worth it.
I am really glad that she met the ever supportive husband Mr. Masanobu Tabei who encouraged her to pursue her dream of climbing the highest peak. Junko's determination to not give up on reaching the top is awe-inspiring. I'm glad to stumble upon this book. The world needs more female mountaineers who will always be at the top! We got this girl!
January 26, 2020
This historical fiction middle grade novel follows Junko Tabei who was the first woman to climb Mt. Everest. Many readers will appreciate Junko's inner strength as she follows a path unlike the average Japanese girl and woman. In school as a child, Junko was considered small and weak. However, when faced with climbing a mountain, she follows her teacher's advice to do her best and successfully completes the climb. This sparks Junko's life
Omg passion for climbing.
I particularly appreciated the accessibility of the text. This book is written in fairly simple language with a message that rings loud and clear. Junko's care for the environment in her later years is an important facet of a book that demonstrates how to follow your passion.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Omg passion for climbing.
I particularly appreciated the accessibility of the text. This book is written in fairly simple language with a message that rings loud and clear. Junko's care for the environment in her later years is an important facet of a book that demonstrates how to follow your passion.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2023
When she was in primary school she was bookish and not at all atheletic. Then a teacher encouraged her to try mountaineering. Obviously she came to love the challenge.
In 1992, she was the first woman to climb the Seven Summits, the highest peak on each continent – Kilimanjaro (1980), Mt. Aconcagua (1987), Denali (1988), Mt. Elbrus (1989), Mount Vinson (1991), and Puncak Jaya (1992). Tabei took part in 44 all-female mountaineering expeditions by 2005.
The illustrations by Montse Galbany are simple, delightful, imaginative, and colorful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Rebel Girls via NetGalley. Thank you!
In 1992, she was the first woman to climb the Seven Summits, the highest peak on each continent – Kilimanjaro (1980), Mt. Aconcagua (1987), Denali (1988), Mt. Elbrus (1989), Mount Vinson (1991), and Puncak Jaya (1992). Tabei took part in 44 all-female mountaineering expeditions by 2005.
The illustrations by Montse Galbany are simple, delightful, imaginative, and colorful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Rebel Girls via NetGalley. Thank you!
March 6, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for an e-ARC of this title to read and review. Out of all the series in the Rebel Girls catalog, I would say that this middle grade historical fiction chapter book option is the style I would have loved and devoured most as a kid (in this age group), but like least as an adult reader. They're still really incredible, I'm just more impressed with the biography anthologies as an adult! But, this story of Junko Tabei is probably the exception - it's been my favorite so far in the inspired-fiction works, and I also feel that got to know a lot about the real person from my reading as well. I had never heard of Junko Tabei before, and what a shame! Her life story, talents, and ambitions are so compelling, and it was a treat to read about her in this format. I could totally see younger readers (like my past self) wanting to know more about mountaineering and balancing adventures in life after experiencing this book.
January 30, 2020
The Rebel Girl series consists of short chapter book biographies that highlight women who have done extraordinary things or made extraordinary contributions throughout the world. In this volume young readers learn about Junko Tabei, a Japanese woman who was the first woman to summit Everest. The author tells of her childhood, and dislike of physical education. However, when she discovered mountaineering she found her niche. At the time, and in her cultures, this was not really an appropriate activity for a woman. Nevertheless she persevered. The book highlights friendships, marriage, children, and events after Everest, including her ongoing legacy. This is well-written and inspiring. It would be a great read-aloud.
February 25, 2020
I had rated the book lower, because I'd read it as a work of non-fiction. Only now, as I was studying the book again to write this review, did I see the note from the publisher on the back of the title page stating that this is fiction. Viewed through that lens, this is a great story for readers 3rd grade and up, telling how a young Japanese girl overcame her own fears and the conventions of the day to become the first woman to summit Mt. Everest.
I do wish the publisher had made the fiction designation more visible and had included some informational back matter, such as a timeline, sample sources and suggestions for readers want to know more. That being said, this is a beautiful little novel that will be easy to recommend to young readers.
I do wish the publisher had made the fiction designation more visible and had included some informational back matter, such as a timeline, sample sources and suggestions for readers want to know more. That being said, this is a beautiful little novel that will be easy to recommend to young readers.
July 18, 2020
Thank you for sharing this book through NetGalley.
When I started to read this book, I thought I was reading a manga. It's an ordinary Japanese life, the ones I read in manga. And I read a lot of Japanese comic strips.
Then I was waiting for the surprise, like this kind of Rebel Girls book. But unlike most of them, this slow paced book is downright interesting. It brought me to the thing I rarely (or even never) read in any kind of manga: rock climbing. The fun yet difficult activity that needs passion and determination to reach the top.
I end up looking for the photo of Junko Tabei, who is indeed petite, and marveled all over again, how this woman can have a big spirit inside her little body.
When I started to read this book, I thought I was reading a manga. It's an ordinary Japanese life, the ones I read in manga. And I read a lot of Japanese comic strips.
Then I was waiting for the surprise, like this kind of Rebel Girls book. But unlike most of them, this slow paced book is downright interesting. It brought me to the thing I rarely (or even never) read in any kind of manga: rock climbing. The fun yet difficult activity that needs passion and determination to reach the top.
I end up looking for the photo of Junko Tabei, who is indeed petite, and marveled all over again, how this woman can have a big spirit inside her little body.
August 20, 2021
Junko Tabei was the first woman to summit Mount Everest in 1975 and surprisingly I'd never heard of her! I picked up this book becuase I love the Rebel Girls series so I'll read anything they put out, and this was another wonderful biography. I especially liked this one because Junko was not your typical athletic type to start with but out of a sense of adventure decided to join a school trip to climb a mountain. And, she very nearly didn't make it to the top! She had other setbacks throughout her life as well, but from the support of her family and friends and her persevering spirit she became one of the best in the world. It just goes to show that you never know what hobbies will spark interest so go ahead and try something new and just do your best!
January 26, 2023
Me, I had no idea that this absolutely awesome and absolutely fab woman ever existed and lead the life she did! I never knew of her, the one who conquered mount Everest fearlessly. So well written!
I cannot express my gratitude enough to the Rebel Girls team for creating all those books. The world so desperately needs more, more, more proof that women can do anything, can achieve anything, and that we are not just the second sex.
Somehow every Rebel Girls book I read later on gets added to my book shopping cart and then gets gifted to tween girls who have any celebratory event where a gift is due. Those books make me feel like I am on a mission to spread feminism and empowerment, one book at a time.
I cannot express my gratitude enough to the Rebel Girls team for creating all those books. The world so desperately needs more, more, more proof that women can do anything, can achieve anything, and that we are not just the second sex.
Somehow every Rebel Girls book I read later on gets added to my book shopping cart and then gets gifted to tween girls who have any celebratory event where a gift is due. Those books make me feel like I am on a mission to spread feminism and empowerment, one book at a time.
March 2, 2023
Have I mentioned lately how much I LOVE Rebel Girls?
The stories are fantastic, the books are appealing to look at and read, the length of the stories is just right for young readers, and the subject are fantastic!
Rebel Girls is doing a phenomenal job of finding diverse women, and interesting stories about lesser known heroines, to present as inspiration for a generation that has started their intellectual pursuits under much duress.
I just can't wait to have an entire bookshelf dedicated to Rebel Girls and strong women as a beacon to empower the young people (not just girls!) in my life
Thank you Rebel Girls!
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
The stories are fantastic, the books are appealing to look at and read, the length of the stories is just right for young readers, and the subject are fantastic!
Rebel Girls is doing a phenomenal job of finding diverse women, and interesting stories about lesser known heroines, to present as inspiration for a generation that has started their intellectual pursuits under much duress.
I just can't wait to have an entire bookshelf dedicated to Rebel Girls and strong women as a beacon to empower the young people (not just girls!) in my life
Thank you Rebel Girls!
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
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