AustLit

'Nine year old Matica lives in a remote village on a dry plateau in the Andes of Peru. She moved to Peru when she was five with Australian missionary and schoolteacher parents. Because Matica is trapped in the body of a two year old, her growth handicap has caused her to be rejected by the local people and they would not accept her into their community or allow her to play with the children.

'With patience and a sense of adventure Matica befriends a pair of condors. A strong bond and love develops between them.

'Matica rescues the egg the condors, Tamo and Tima, are trying to protect from poachers and nurtures it to hatching. The egg hatches on her 10th birthday and she names the new fledging Talon.

'Many adventures unfold, including her finally being accepted into the local community. And something totally unexpected...

'This is the beginning of many incredible adventures with Talon and Matica. It is a story of hope, determination and love.' (Publication summary)