The Secrets of Camissa
Caroline A Raine
Paperback
(Independently published, Jan. 8, 2017)
Children's easy reader chapter book. Set in the forgotten underwater canals and natural springs of Table Mountain, young readers are taken on a fantasy adventure which blends local South African cultural history with contemporary flavours. A light, modern and energetic fantasy story set in a realistic context. Told in the first person narrative by Lisa, an 11 year old girl who lives in Cape Town, this adventure takes the reader on a journey into the very heart of Table Mountain. There we meet an ancient and mystical people in the Kingdom of Camissa. Lisa has unwittingly been chosen by the Spirit of Camissa to take a message of hope and renewal into the city. This is a modern fantasy adventure, set in a recognisable landscape. Lisa joins her family on a hike up Table Mountain one Saturday morning. As the day wears on she is separated from the group and quite literally falls into a mysterious secret world. Once inside the network of underground caverns in the secret kingdom, she is amazed by marvellous sights (magnificent and monumental halls, a beautiful and noble people, enchanting lights and a breathtaking ride inside a huge bubble). Here Lisa meets the Lady Tusi who welcomes her. The ancient people of the Kingdom of Camissa have been waiting for her for a long time. The plot draws on an emerging revival in Cape Town currently, of a unique historic marvel - the underground water system which lies beneath the City Bowl- which is currently being explored and re-opened.