Zach Thomas

Ghost of Gacha and More Tales of the Tahkis Zach Thomas

Chief Gacha goes to cruel extremes to keep his tribe of Tahkis the way they were always born - as twins. 'You'll never be happy without someone just like yourself,' he insists. Two sets of twins happen upon Rik and his sister, Robi, both of whom had been born without twins and were living like hermits in the jungle. The six youth discover that friendship thrives on differences among them and does not at all depend on having a best friend who is one's mirror image. They long for the day when the whole tribe will embrace their discovery - precisely what Gacha forbids. Determined to save their dreams from the tangle of foolish custom, Rik, Robi and companions take advantage of the secret meaning of an ancient chant and an exploding volcano. With amazing creativity, they outwit a greedy cruise ship captain, tame a giant hairy hunter, and survive the unruly spirit of an eerie mask. Set on a tropical island, the series of five adventures aims for ages eight to twelve. With her sensational illustrations Kristin Greenfelder pulls readers, laughing and cringing, into the action. A Discussion Guide helps readers and storytellers search their own experience to find examples of the stories' values - integrity over conformity, gender equality, and courage to create a more wholesome community.