Middleworld (The Jaguar Stones Book One) / J & P Voelkel / 415 pages

Great, timely adventure story, relating to the end of the Mayan Calendar.  14-year-old Max Murphy is spoiled, lazy, and selfish, and seems to only be interested in playing video games.  When his archaeologist Mom and Dad leave hurriedly for a dig and cancel the family vacation to Italy, Max is angry beyond expression.  When his mysterious housekeeper, Zia, gives him a plane ticket to San Xavier where his parents are working, Max is still angry, but also delighted to finally be invited to one of their digs.  Unfortunately, Max's parents did not invite him and have, in fact, disappeared.  Max's uncle is involved in nefarious business and the Mayan girl, Lola is somewhat enigmatic.  Much is learned about the Ancient Mayas, as we follow Max on his journey to rescue his parents, become a decent person, and experience, and be, a true friend. ... Did I mention talking howler monkeys who are inhabited by an Ancient Mayan king and his mother?...