Cloudburst is the thrilling opening novel in the Jack Courtney Adventures series by internationally bestselling author Wilbur Smith. Aimed at readers aged 9 and up, this fast-paced young adult action adventure introduces 14-year-old Jack Courtney, a sharp, brave teenager whose life is turned upside down when his parents go missing in the heart of the African rainforest. What was meant to be a memorable trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo for a gorilla conference quickly turns deadly when mercenaries abduct Jack’s parents, leaving him and his two friends, Amelia and Xander, to navigate the perilous jungle alone.
As the trio ventures deeper into the rainforest in search of answers, they face not only the dangers of the wild — from forest elephants to hippos — but also armed bandits, hostile tribes, and corrupt mining interests. With lives on the line and family betrayal in the mix, Jack must summon all his courage and ingenuity to survive. Cloudburst marks the start of a gripping series filled with danger, daring escapes, and the enduring power of friendship.
