Valley of the Rats

  • Pages:240
  • Publisher:Cormorant Books
  • Themes:rat worship, Ladakh, anxiety, adventure, father and son
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  • Available:02/22/2022
  • Age Groups:Fiction Ages 9-12
Paperback
9781770866287
$13.95

Krish hates the outdoors, camping, and especially germs. When Krish and his father take a camping trip to Ladakh, he convinces himself they’ll bond, despite their differences.

When they’re lost in a bamboo forest teeming with black rats, and germs, Krish is at an all-time low. His gut feel and a couple of rats lead them to Imdur, a hidden village.

Krish and his father are allowed to stay, if they follow the rules. But when Krish and Kabir break the most sacred rule, the Imdura threaten to keep them there forever. Can Krish overcome his fears to save them?

“This story, with the main character's insecurities and favourite F-words, will amuse young readers. The information about rats will both horrify and fascinate readers as they watch how the relationship between Krish and his father changes when Krish learns to trust himself.” Highly recommended.

– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“The author deftly blends psychological realism with exciting action sequences to produce a book that is sure to thrill young readers while at the same time giving them a subtle experience of the complex character development and structural symmetries that speak to the author’s literary ambitions. This is a book with broad appeal that will be read with pleasure by readers of all ages.”
– The Vancouver Sun
“A good deal of action, a likable protagonist, and an ever growing sense of doom speed this novel along … A satisfying fantasy full of mystery.”
– Kirkus Reviews
Chocolate Lily Book Award   | 2023  |  Short-listed