Robin Prince Monroe

Written for first through third grade readers, Ralph and Louie is a story of friendship, community, and a daring rescue.

"I started to laugh, then I saw Chris freeze. Not more than a few yards in front of him was the biggest alligator I had ever seen. It was at least as long as our boat. And It was floating, with its eyes periscoping out of the water, staring right at Chris." The Silent Glades takes place in the Florida Everglades. Nick Menendez, his best friend, Chris Taylor, and their families have just moved from the mountains of North Carolina to the middle of Everglades National Park. Nick's parents and Chris' mom are scientists commissioned to study endangered ecosystems. In this very strange place, Nick and Chris will encounter more than alligators and snakes. Together they will try to solve the mystery of the Skunk Ape (Florida's version of Big Foot), have to overcome a threat to their close friendship, and find their place in their new home.