The Valley of Horses (1982) by Jean M. Auel is the second book in the Earth’s Children series, continuing the epic survival saga of Ayla, a Cro-Magnon woman raised by Neanderthals. After being exiled from the Clan in The Clan of the Cave Bear, Ayla ventures into the untamed wilderness of Ice Age Europe, where she must rely on her wits, healing skills, and bond with animals to survive.
The novel unfolds in parallel narratives:
- Ayla’s Solitude: She discovers a lush valley, tames a wild horse (Whinney) and a cave lion (Baby), and invents revolutionary tools (like the sling and fire-starting techniques). Her isolation is punctuated by longing for companionship.
- Jondalar’s Journey: A tall, blond Cro-Magnon traveler (Jondalar) and his brother Thonolan embark from their homeland, encountering diverse tribes and dangers—until tragedy leaves Jondalar alone.
Their paths converge explosively when Jondalar, wounded, is rescued by Ayla. Their cultural clashes (her Clan upbringing vs. his “Others” norms) and slow-burning romance set the stage for the series’ exploration of prejudice, innovation, and love.
