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by Susan Riva (Author)
High in the Swiss Alps lives Valaisia, a courageous mountain girl who is becoming a skilled mountaineer. She learns to travel safely along steep Alpine trails, snowy passes, and the high routes that cross the mountains. She cares for others, values the companionship of her ski tribe, and listens closely to the wisdom of the natural world.
With her skis, climbing skins, compass, and special satchel of healing tools and medicinal remedies, Valaisia is prepared when an ordinary mountain adventure becomes a rescue mission. Guided by skills passed down through her family, she joins an intergenerational rope team and discovers that true strength grows through courage, cooperation, kindness, and trust.
The animals and landscapes of the Alps also become her teachers. Valaisia learns that the mountains are both beautiful and powerful. Accompanied by her faithful Saint Bernard and a watchful eagle soaring overhead, she learns to read the weather and the snow, respect steep slopes and rushing waters, and remain attentive to the warnings carried by animals, the wind, and the changing mountain terrain.
Along the way, she also draws upon the quiet healing traditions entrusted to her by her grandparents, gaining a deeper understanding of the connection between people, nature, and community.
Valaisia the Mountain Girl introduces children to Alpine life through skiing, mountaineering, family heritage, and environmental stewardship. The compass in Valaisia's satchel helps her find the right path, while her heart compass guides her toward wise and courageous choices. Connected like strands in a strong mountain rope, her family and community help her navigate challenges and find her way home.
