Publisher's Synopsis
Parched deserts are spreading as sun and moons play havoc with the world of young Shal. Why do his elders cling to the old ways? And now, as he grows to adolescence, he can't understand a word his father says! Meanwhile, Lak is having the same problem with her mother. Scarce resources have led to rigid social practices, and only the Old Traveler finds a welcome everywhere he travels. Good thing - his tales sustain the traditions that keep Shal's and Lak's world alive. But when these young folks meet, sparks begin to fly, and soon the old world is being penetrated and challenged by new ideas. Will the new family of Shalaki-Shalakhem bring survival to their people?