Running on the Roof of the World

By: Jess Butterworth

Narrated by: Rameet Rauli

Join 12-year-old Tash and her best friend Sam in a story of adventure, survival and hope, set in the vivid Himalayan landscape of Tibet and India. Filled with friendship, love and courage, this young girl's thrilling journey to save her parents is an ideal read for children aged 9-12.

There are two words that are banned in Tibet. Two words that can get you locked in prison without a second thought. I watch the soldiers tramping away and call the words after them. 'Dalai Lama.'

Tash has to follow many rules to survive in Tibet, a country occupied by Chinese soldiers. But when a man sets himself on fire in protest and soldiers seize Tash's parents, she and her best friend Sam must break the rules. They are determined to escape Tibet - and seek the help of the Dalai Lama himself in India.

And so, with a backpack of Tash's father's mysterious papers and two trusty yaks by their side, their extraordinary journey across the mountains begins.

(P)2020 Hodder & Stoughton Limited©2017 Jess Butterworth

Critic reviews

Daring kids, sidekick yaks, Himalayan setting - all the ingredients of a smashing adventure.

A wonderful story of courage and hope.

A powerful, compelling story of hope, wisdom and compassion...

a cracking adventure and survival novel set in the Himalayas which really makes you think about the plight of the Tibetan people. (Sarah Webb)

This beautifully designed book is a richly atmospheric story of friendship, courage and survival. (Anna McKerrow)

...a thrilling fable about hope, and the importance of holding onto what matters, no matter what. With its derring-do charm, and vivid sense of place, this follows in the tradition of classic adventure stories, and comes thoroughly recommended for fans of Eva Ibbotson, Lauren St John and Katherine Rundell. (Joanne Owen)

With a cover that sings of sunrise and adventure, and inside pages that hold intricate print designs and hidden yaks, this is a beautiful book to own. An eye-opening and somewhat different read.

...one of those stories that gives its young readers an honest understanding of some of the awful things that go on in the world, but balances that understanding with a narrative of survival and hope... (Jill Murphy)

This is a fantastic book which is relevant to today's crises: refugees, conflict and children growing up in war zones. Although there's danger, gruelling journeys and battles to survive, there is also hope, and hope is the essence of Tash's story.

This is an excellent story it maintains a good pace throughout and is filled with insights into both Tibetan and Indian culture.

Running on the Roof of the World by Jess Butterworth is full of excitement and tension, and also gives you a glimpse of the culture and lifestyle of the people in the mountains.

...an absolute page-turner and Tash was an amazing character full of spirit and determination. (Evie - 11)