Where has Ruthie and Dave’s mom gone? Freeda, a wild warrior woman, was their guiding star, but they wake up one morning to find her missing. The sister and brother discover clues to her disappearance and embark on a perilous trip to a world they’d thought was fiction—Xemwencio. Once there, they find their journey has only just begun. Menaced by shock-haired monkeys, hard-beaked ostriches and venomous centipedes, lured by dark powers and tempted with mind-numbing treats, Ruthie and Dave stay on course as best they can. In the process they discover within themselves deep wells of courage and ability. But will they prevail in this warring land, bristling with dangers? And will they finally be reunited with their warrior mother, Freeda?