Talking Leaves Book

Talking Leaves is a story about friendship, history, mystery and more… Something is happening in Dunnellon and these three teens are determined to discover what it is. Erin and Dakota Harris, 14 and 16 year-old brother and sister, are coping with the recent loss of their mother when they meet Audrey Conroy, a sophisticated 14 year-old reluctantly uprooted from her urban world to this quaint country town. A tentative friendship develops and quickly deepens when the girls discover they share the same puzzling dream that includes the apparition of a young Indian girl. Rather than dismiss this other-worldly being as ridiculous, Erin and Audrey share their secret with a rather skeptical Dakota. Soon all three teenagers find themselves drawn to this mesmerizing creature. Their mutual vision leads our heroes to experiences they never anticipated, including the discovery of a tragic piece of their hometown history. Influenced by the mysterious encounters with the Indian girl in their fantasy world and with the friendship of a renowned archeologist in their real-life world, the teenagers are able to thwart the scheme of a corrupt businessman in Dunellon. Talking Leaves brings the basic elements of morals and ethics back to storytelling. Although far from perfect, our protagonists meet unexpected challenges with integrity and creativity, while at the same time managing to survive the daily drama of teenage life. With youthful innocence and exuberance, Erin, Audrey and Dakota share with us the wonder and passion of their teenage world.

E.M. Ellery

I loved the way I was drawn into the plot, forming heartfelt likes and dislikes for the various characters. I found myself cheering for the good guys, booing the bad guys, and holding my breath when the kids were in trouble. The family values, moral undertones and life lessons were uplifting and refreshing. Talking Leaves is a great book for young adults...I can't wait for the sequel!