Miya’s Mountain

An arrogant city slicker A sick, timid child A massive rockslide What could possibly go wrong?

In this coming-of-age novel, 15-year-old Miya Skippingbird is a girl striving for success in a world that seems determined to break her. She harbors a deep, dark secret-one she must overcome to regain the trust of her parents. After convinc- ing her father to give her one last opportunity, she takes a tourist and his son for a trail ride and fishing expedition in the mountains and fishing. After weeks of checking and rechecking her lists, Miya believes she is prepared for anything- EXCEPT a rockslide and a life-or-death situation. Only Miya knows the way out, but first she must face her fear. Can she overcome her all-consuming anxiety, worry, and paralyzing fear of heights?

Heart pounding, Miya surveyed the situation. She hadn't slid far, only fifteen feet or so. She looked over the side of the canyon. Jagged rocks rose knifelike above the treetops. Miya imagine falling into nothingness. Thudding against boulders, a crumpled heap by the river. Would the ravens peck out her eyes? Would the bears and wolves fight over her flesh? Dizziness rolled over Miya in waves. Black spots clouded her vision. Sweat gathered under her armpits.

I don't want to die here!