The Mammoth Hunters

About “The Mammoth Hunters”

Jean M. Auel continues the story of Ayla in a novel set in the early days of modern humans. Ayla travels with Jondalar and their horse, Whinney, to the land of the Mamutoi, a group of people known as the Mammoth Hunters. She is accepted by the Mamutoi because of her skills in hunting, healing, and making fire. Ayla also tames a wolf and brings back its pup, which helps her gain acceptance. She makes friends among the women but also faces memories of the Clan she left. She meets Ranec, a skilled carver, and their relationship causes tension with Jondalar. Ayla misunderstands Jondalar's feelings and turns to Ranec. As winter passes, the mammoth hunt and the Summer Meeting approach, and Ayla must decide whether to stay with the Mamutoi or go with Jondalar on a new journey.