Publisher's Synopsis
A new life breaks out of its frail shell in the thick undergrowth of a tropical forest, to the sound of rustling leaves and soft buzzing insects nearby. This is the story of our main character, a hatchling Hinge-back tortoise, as it sets out on its incredible voyage across the enormous and wonderful world of the wild. The gentle patter of showers hitting the woodland floor at the beginning of the chapter creates a calming soundtrack that follows the turtle as it begins its life. The hatchling is gently prodding its way out of its egg, its little limbs quivering with the strain of its quest to escape its captivity. At last, the shell gives way triumphantly, exposing the little, wrinkly creature within. The hatchling is welcomed with a dizzying array of colors and fragrances when it comes into the world, overpowering its senses with the richness of its environment. The forest is home to a wide variety of species, all of whom have access to shelter and food thanks to the towering trees that rise far into the sky. The hatchling is filled with surprise and curiosity as the air is heavy with the earthy scent of moist soil and the lovely smell of budding flowers
