CREATIVE CORNER

From Lizard Tails

Novel excerpt and illustration by Ben Gamberg

Chapter 4:  The Rocky Climb

Dawn on July 4th

Rocks flew down and boulders rumbled as Marsh, Swamp, and Oat made their way up the hardwood hammocks, an elevated part of the Everglades. They wanted to scope out the land they were about to cross for days and days.

“Marsh, this is SOOO boring. Can we play a game?” Swamp said, clearly finding the climb dull.

“You think we should play a game while we’re climbing? That’s a recipe for disaster!” Oat exclaimed.

Over time, they worked their way closer and closer to the mountain peak. The sun was setting, and predators were coming out… The trio grabbed sticks and logs to build a structure for shelter—a temporary home.

“Goodnight,” Marsh said, ready to pass out.

In the Pine Rocklands

“Pine, we’ve been here looking forever. I’m beginning to lose hope,” Rain said, distraught.

“It’s okay. I’m sure they’re together,” Pine said, hope written across his eyes.

The pine rocklands were some of the roughest terrain to cross in the Everglades. Pine and Rain walked for hours with no luck. Then they came to a crossroads: one path led to the Hardwood Hammocks, the other to the Anhinga Trail.

“The Shark Slough passes through the Anhinga Trail. It’s smarter to go there,” Pine said confidently.

“Okay… but are you sure?” Rain asked in an uneasy tone.

The two headed for the Anhinga Trail, most commonly known for its crocodile population.

They set off into the sunset, ready for whatever the Anhinga Trail would bring.

To Be Continued! 🦎