City of the Beasts

This thrilling young adult novel follows Alexander Cold, a 15-year-old grappling with his mother's cancer, as he's sent to live with his eccentric, adventurous grandmother. He soon finds himself on an expedition deep into the Amazon rainforest, tasked with documenting a mythical creature known as the Beast. Alongside a local girl, Nadia, Alex uncovers a conspiracy, confronts perilous challenges, and discovers the wisdom of the indigenous "People of the Mist." The story weaves together themes of self-discovery, environmental protection, and the power of friendship against a backdrop of magical realism and rich mythology, making it an immersive read for teens aged 12-18.

A search for the Beast within the heart of the Amazon becomes a quest for self-discovery in this coming-of-age story filled with international adventure, rich mythology, and magical realism from globally celebrated novelist Isabel Allende. Would you venture into the heart of the Amazon rainforests? When Alexander Cold has the chance to join his fearless journalist grandmother on an expedition to the dangerous, remote world of the Amazon, he’s not sure it’s the best idea. Especially when their mission from the International Geographic is to document the legendary Yeti of the Amazon known as the Beast. But under the dense canopy of the jungle, Alexander is amazed to discover much more than he ever could have imagined about the hidden worlds of the rainforest. Drawing on the strength of the jaguar, the totemic animal Alexander finds within himself, and the eagle, his new friend Nadia’s spirit guide, both young people are led by the invisible People of the Mist on a thrilling and unforgettable journey. What they discover just might change their world forever.