The Old Ones

About the Book: It's the vacation of their dreams. Philanthropist Alexander Gerard grants seven children, all diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses, their greatest wish-an all-expenses-paid trip to South America. In a small Brazilian airport, they board a reconditioned DC-3, eager to take their first flight over the Amazon River. But suddenly, above the lush green canopy, the engines scream and sputter to a stop. As they lose altitude, thick vines grab the landing gear. A wing is sheared off before the broken plane is tossed into a pristine fishpond. Chaperones assess their injuries and, miraculously, all have survived with only bruises and minor scratches. They're surprised and a bit shaken, but greatly relieved to be alive. Without further consideration, they're forced to flee from hungry predators, surveying them from the water's edge. And so, they begin their arduous climb out of the jungle, surviving on grubs and roots and praying all the while for rescue. As they struggle to stay alive, they stumble onto a vast catacomb of caves where they take refuge. However, their numbers begin to diminish as, one by one, members of the Gerard party disappear. Thus begins the adventure of the Old Ones. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lise McKay was born in a small farm house in the Canadian Appalachian Mountains. Although picturesque, the dwelling lacked simple modern trappings such as plumbing and electricity. Growing up in this remote location, imagination and creativity reigned supreme. She learned to capture ideas as easily as fire flies in glass jars. Later, she immigrated to the United States where she became an American citizen, married and raised four wonderful children. She obtained a Mastersdegree in agency counseling and is now retired. She continues to express herself through writing and other varied art forms.