The Shelters of Stone
Ayla and Jondalar finally reach the limestone caves of the Zelandonii after their long trek across Ice Age Europe. While Ayla finds a kindred spirit in the community's spiritual leader, she must also face deep-seated prejudice from those who fear her upbringing among the Clan. As she prepares for motherhood and a formal mating ceremony, she struggles to find her place in a complex society that views her as an outsider.
This book is the fifth installment in the Earth's Children series and continues the story of Ayla and Jondalar directly from the previous books. Readers will have a much richer understanding of the characters and their journey by starting with the first book, The Clan of the Cave Bear.