Shanu, a vibrant young fellow whose name means "The Watcher," warns his best friend Lani to look out for Ashaki, the famous and feared black leopard, as they walk together in the wilds of the Escan Jungle. Suddenly they hear a blood-chilling roar, and Lani disappears. Shanu's world is torn apart, and he will not rest until he finds his dear friend, or confronts the fierce leopard himself with just his bow and arrows. He leaves the kind, worried people of his village and his peaceful life behind, his heart in bitter turmoil. But soon he discovers he is being followed by the mysterious Ima, who Shanu believes is Lani's beloved. He tells her sternly that this is no journey for a girl But Ima is keeping a secret or two, and also insists on helping. Shanu cannot change the mind of this strong-willed young lady, and the two soon face threats and even horror in the great Escan Jungle, set in the shadows of two looming volcanoes. But along the way, they learn not only to remain watchful in the jungle against darkness and danger, but also watchful for life-and its bountiful and often surprising charms, gifts and wonders... Unfolding along the banks of the mighty QuaQua River in the fantasy world of the Escan Jungle, Shanu the Watcher is a delightful and captivating tale in tune with young and adventurous minds.