The Treehouse in the Woods is an intricately-woven tale of nine pre-teens who develop lifelong friendships during an unlikely summer together at a northern California vineyard. Author David Girard uses his own life experiences as a successful vintner and lawyer, his love of history, and his extensive knowledge of the region to intertwine specific details with a heartfelt story of relationships, family, conflict resolution, teamwork, and love.
Adam and Henry Draper have been given an opportunity to get out of the city and spend the summer at their grandfather's vineyard in El Dorado County, California. While there, they meet more kids their age and build new friendships along the way. They learn of the native American history, Japanese history, and Gold Rush history of the region, They encounter old caves, spooky cemeteries, noisy dirt bikers, annoying peacocks, dark woods, and even learn to paint! But, most of all, they cement their newfound friendships in the creation of a treehouse in the woods behind the vineyard.
This is a story for all ages but will really speak to pre-teen children who have ever felt alone and who yearn for the embrace of new friends.