"Tree Girl" is a young adult novel by Ben Mikaelsen that was published in 2004. The story is set in Guatemala and follows the journey of a young indigenous girl named Gabriela who is forced to flee her village and seek refuge in the rainforest after her family is killed during a brutal attack.
As Gabriela struggles to survive in the rainforest, she is befriended by an orphaned howler monkey and learns to live off the land. She also meets an American archeologist named John, who is studying ancient Maya ruins in the area.
As Gabriela and John become closer, they begin to unravel the mystery of what happened to Gabriela's village and family. Along the way, they must confront dangerous enemies, including drug traffickers and corrupt government officials, who are determined to keep the truth hidden.
"Tree Girl" is a powerful and moving novel that explores themes such as survival, friendship, and justice. Mikaelsen's descriptions of the rainforest and Maya ruins create a vivid and immersive world, while Gabriela's strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her a compelling and inspiring protagonist.
Overall, "Tree Girl" is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that is suitable for readers of all ages. It is a must-read for anyone interested in young adult fiction, adventure stories, or stories of survival and resilience.
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