A group of men escape imprisonment during the American Civil War by stealing a balloon. Blown across the world, they are air-wrecked on a remote desert island. In a manner reminiscent of Robinson Crusoe, the men apply their scientific knowledge and technical skill to exploit the island s bountiful resources, eventually constructing a sophisticated society in miniature. The book is also an intriguing mystery story, for the island has a secret.

"In the old tales, it is written that the egg of a seadragon, dragonfruit, holds within it the power to undo a person's greatest sorrow. But as with all things that offer hope when hope has gone, the tale comes with a warning. Every wish demands a price. Hanalei of Tamarind is the cherished daughter of an old island family. But when her father steals a seadragon egg meant for an ailing princess, she is forced into a life of exile. In the years that...

Trapped for eleven days on a deserted island, Jane, Buzz, Carter and Vanessa must venture deeper into the jungles of the island, where they discover a secret and find danger at every turn.

Resolving to find the mother who left her behind, Sophie enlists the help of a charter pilot to visit a remote Pacific island lab only to encounter genetically enhanced humans created in a scientific experiment who all possess a terrible flaw.

"As a demigod, Maui has done a lot to help humanity. He slowed the sun to make the days longer and used his magical fishhook to pull up new islands. He battled monsters and even helped create coconuts. But there's one thing Maui has never done: be somebody's friend. Follow Maui on his journey to become the best friend ever--with some help from the brave voyager named Moana, that is.."--Jacket flap.