Two grieving brothers learn the power of family and the power of white water.

When their parents are killed in a car accident, Scott and his brother Gregg are sent to live with an uncle they never knew they had. Hurt, angry, and confused, they leave a comfortable life in the California suburbs and head to the remote Colorado Rockies, where their uncle runs a white-water rafting company. Scott, forced to confront his loss and face an uncertain future, determines to make the best of a difficult situation. But his brother Gregg, burying his grief deep inside, begins to drift away from the only family he has left.

As they become acquainted with the power and unpredictability of the river and begin to learn the skills of maneuvering the rapids, the brothers discover that it is harder than they ever dreamed to master the art of survival—both on and off the water.


Author Photo

S.L. Rottman is a former teacher and the author of several young adult novels. A graduate of Colorado State University, Rottman lives in Florida.

You can visit S.L. Rottman’s website here.



“Reminiscent of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet... or The River... this quick-paced adventure will be enjoyed by 'river rats' and those interested in the outdoors.” ―VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)

“With the thrill of the rapids, realistic family dynamics, a little romance, and likable characters, this book is a great read.” ―School Library Journal

“...The interactions between Scott and his brother are incredibly realistic and filled with emotion. It's the relationship he forms with his uncle that really impressed me...I really enjoyed Rough Waters. With the right mix of emotion, adventure and tension, it's a gripping read.” ―Roundtable for Kids blog


Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Readers ―YALSA 1999

Young Adults' Choices ―IRA 2000

Books for the Teen Age ―New York Public Library 1999-2001

Oklahoma Book Awards (finalist, children/young adult category) ―Oklahoma Center for the Book 1999

Colorado Blue Spruce Award (finalist) ―CCIRA, CLAS, CLA, CEMA 2000

Utah Book Award (young adult nominee) ―Children's Literature Association of Utah 2001

South Carolina Young Adult Book Award (nominee) ―South Carolina Association of School Librarians 2000-2001

Best Books for Young Teen Readers ―R. R. Bowker