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Vivian Teo

READ & REVIEWED: Jess Butterworth middle-grade books

Jess Butterworth's middle-grade titles are exciting reads that explore pressing issues like climate change and animal poaching.

middle grade books Jess butterworth swimming against the storm book review

Little E, my 10-year-old, would like to recommend books by Jess Butterworth 😊


In Swimming Against the Storm, Eliza, who has lived her entire life in a small fishing village, sets out with her younger sister to save their land from rising sea levels.

middle grade books Jess butterworth swimming against the storm book review

In When the Mountains Roared, Ruby is devastated when her dad uproots her from Australia to set up a hotel in the mountains of India. But when the last remaining leopards of the mountain are threatened by poachers, Ruby has to overcome her fears to protect the animals.


In Running on the Roof of the World, Tash and her best friend Sam, have to rescue Tash's parents who have been seized by soldiers. To do so, they must escape from Tibet and seek help from the Dalai Lama.


I really like middle grade books that explore pressing issues like climate change, yet keep their plots interesting and relevant for children. Little E says, "The stories are exciting and I like that the books talk about climate change, animal poaching and Tibet, which are different from most of the books I have read."

middle grade books Jess butterworth swimming against the storm book review
Swimming Against the Storm

I reckon these books are suitable for those 10 years and up. Just a note that in Running on the Roof, there is a scene with self-immolation. It's not written too scarily and didn't spook Little E but just fyi, you might get questions from your kid on this.


We bought Swimming Against the Storm from Sg Book Market and borrowed the other two from the National Library. We spy in Goodreads other very promising books from the same author and will be looking out for them!


What are you currently reading? Let us know in the comment box below! 😊


Disclaimer: My opinions and reviews here are strictly my and my family’s own.


©Vivian Teo. All content and photos are copyrighted to Vivian Teo unless otherwise specified.

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