Laela and the Moonline

“Surprises unfold in the predictable. . . . You can never fully foresee the foreseen.”



Long ago, the four tribes of Aerizon lived as one people, but the time of unity has passed. Now, three of the tribes collectively called the Treedles inhabit the forest canopy. The fourth tribe, the Mergons, live on the ground and pose a constant threat to the Treedles. Laela is a young Treedlegirl coming of age in the treetop realm of Aerizon. Her destiny, as yet unrevealed, will cast her in the role of catalyst for epic change.



Laela grows increasingly restless with the cultural limits and expectations for young Treedle women. In her quest to understand and express her authentic self, she faces soul-transforming psychological and physical tests. Unlike Treedle women before her, she pushes back against traditional gender and cultural boundaries. Propelled by mysterious forces, she ventures into the forest and onto the lands below, breaking ground for a new era.



As she evolves spiritually, Laela faces mental challenges, redefining her perception of the impact one person can have on the world. Finally, she gains the courage to raise her voice in defense of herself and her people. Seekers of truth and justice will relate to how Laela grapples with the challenge of finding her guiding values.



About the Author



Lisa Perskie Rodriguez is an international educator who lived abroad for over three decades. She worked as a teacher and school administrator in international schools in Colombia, South America, Guatemala, and Brazil. She raised her children in Colombia, which was her home for 21 years. She was privileged with the opportunity to serve the indigenous community in rural areas, the Wayuu in the Guajira region.

Experiencing different cultures and learning Spanish and Portuguese nourished her vision as a writer. She believes it is not only “nice” but necessary to integrate, listen to, and work with those who hold different world views. Diversity enhances and enriches us! If we are to champion a better, kinder, and more just world, we must develop our creative capacities in concert with our scientific and cultural knowledge.

Laela and the Moonline is her first novel. This book is dedicated to her grandchildren: Laela, Mateo, Lucas, and Gabriel, all promising world citizens with open hearts and a strong sense of social justice.