What reviewers are saying about Rebel: A Tibetan Odyssey

Kirkus Reviews

“Through Thunder’s eyes, the author presents traditional Tibetan attitudes and customs with sometimes bemuses respect. With brilliant subtlety, she also provides glimpses of a Buddhist worldview in which all acts carry a karmic burden or reward (the two being sometimes indistinguishable), and as young bodies house old souls, even small children are capable of insight and compassion beyond their physical years. Profoundly changed by his experiences, Thunder turns in the end, armed with a clearer vision of his life’s path, toward a prophesied future in which Tibet’s long isolation will end in violence and exile. A strong debut that will give readers both a wide-angle view of a threatened culture, and of one young man’s personal search for truth.”

ALA Booklist

“Whitesel has done considerable research, and it shows in all the varied details that color and enliven the story. The plot is affecting, too, as Thunder, who has never been beyond his village, struggles with everything from political intrigue to fear and jealousy. The book also does a fine job of delineating the characters... This is a worthwhile purchase.”

School Library Journal

“Whitesel paints a convincing picture of [the Tibetan] world, full of unfamiliar sights, strange people, and a harsh landscape. Many fascinating, well-developed characters fill the pages... Thunder’s quest to understand who he is and where he belongs is compelling.”