Return to the Wilds

In a dystopian future, a young girl fights to save what little remains of the natural world . . .

Keren, a young activist and biologist, and Caleb, her mystic sidekick, are on a quest to save the last remnants of nature in a world focused on progress, prosperity, and conformity. When the gates slide open on Purity Mountain Wild, Keren is shocked. No Automated Elevation Systems whisking people to individually keyed destinations—they hike a trail into forested mountains. No Hearing Enhancement Audio Devices (HEADs) to block machine screams and voices—her ears fill with bird calls, thumping feet, and breathy wind in the tall overhead pines.

Guided by a mysterious Keeper and helped by Wildlings, Keren, Caleb, and their friends must use wit and geek skills to outwit underlings of the ominous Dominion and make a powerful pitch for changing the story of human progress . . .

Return to the Wilds is an imaginative, action-packed futuristic fantasy that offers a unique view on institutional forces, security and development, the courage and clarity of youth, and the intangible power of the wild and natural. At a somewhat dismal time when young people again are questioning failed institutions of their elders and contending for the planet, it offers new perspective on what’s broken, what to do, and where hope and help can be found.