Past the last island

the long version

"The South Pacific Islands, 14,000 years ago. After their island is ravaged by tidal flooding, some villagers turn to a brutal leader for protection, but others decide to leave the world they once knew and seek out whatever lies beyond the edge of the world -- past the last island. The day keeper, the dream learner, the inventor, the navigators, the woman condemned as a witch, the warriors, the puppeteer -- seventeen in all -- make the journey. On land they deal with gamblers, outlaws, traders, helpers and enemies. On the great open sea, they enter a world still ruled by spirits, a place of wonders where beauty and danger live side by side. Some give their life to the journey."--Page 4 of cover.