Tenzing Norbu Lama, with Stephane Frattini
Secret Of The Snow Leopard
Groundwood Books, 2004

Rating: E

This inviting story, a sequel to Himalaya, leaves a strong impression on the reader. We are reintroduced to the boy hero, Tsering, as he attempts to hit a target with a bow. When he misses the target he reflects on how his father, Lhapka would have been disappointed. The reader soon realizes that this story is about Tsering’s attempts to come to terms with his father’s death and to prove himself as a man.

Tsering’s opportunity to test himself comes when his step-father, Karma, sets out to take the "amchi" or village healer to the monastery because he is ill. Tsering begs leave to accompany them on their trek. As the travelers skirt the mountain trail where Tsering’s father died, Karma explains that they are avoiding that path because Lhapka took that shortcut and fell to his death.

The party reaches the monastery safely and thus far their journey is successful, but when they head home Tsering’s stubbornness and determination get the better of him. He decides to take the short cut while his companions are sleeping. Once embarked on this dangerous trek the boy encounters a leopard. The animal causes Tsering to discover something special about himself.

The journey ends up being a catharsis for Tsering. In his determination to see where his father died and to express his sorrow, Tsering discovers "secrets" that will change his life forever. Indeed, on their return, Karma reflects how "One day….Tsering would be chief of the Dolpo-pa." This book helps the reader appreciate how a village survives and how the culture works together to remain vibrant and strong.

The author’s illustrations are fabulous. The rich earth tones evoke a simple life. Each picture depicts an important scene from the narrative and is so detailed as to possibly stand alone to tell the story. The author/illustrator grew up in Nepal surrounded by a family of artists. Readers, both young and old, will treasure his astounding artwork.

Thematic Links: Bravery; Maturity; Adventure; Himalayan Culture; Grief

Maria Forte
Vol. 10, number 1
October 2004

*Rating System:
E - Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!
G - Good, even great at times, generally useful!
A - Avarage, all right, has its applications.
P - Problematic, puzzling, poorly presented.