Mountain Garden

Kirkus Review

"A timeless fable about love and courage, well-told and beautifully illustrated."

In his debut book, Ottley presents a swiftly moving, muscular fable with evocative descriptions of the natural world. In a story that can be equally appreciated by adults and children, he makes tangible Buckan's pain, fear and hope, helped by excellent use of traditional elements from fables and fairy tales.

Publishers Weekly

"Readers seeking a dose of spiritual affirmation can take heart from its message."

Ottley's first novel is less an animal adventure aimed at children than an allegorical tale about summoning inner strength in order to triumph over dark, threatening forces. Holt's bold, inky illustrations accent Buckan's journey with dramatic and ominous notes.

American Book Review — Project Muse

"While recalling the holy grail of the archaic fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm, this fable dangles not one but twin rewards."

Love dissolves fear. Buckan has learned as much about himself as he has about the world — and more than he could have mastered without embracing risk. A fauna epic that resonates with childhood moments.

Robin Dutt — Art Critic, BBC · The Independent · London Evening Standard

"It takes the reader on a vital journey through danger, right, wrong, faith — but most of all, love."

Mountain Garden is written as a classic picaresque narrative containing elements of the morality tale, fairy tale, epic and instructive fable. A spiritual journey, legendary quest — its strength lies in a familiar structure that resonates and reminds with childhood moments.