At a glance
The Secret of the Desert Stone
Children's Adventure
The Secret of the Desert Stone
Book 5 of the The Cooper Kids Adventures series
160 pages · First published 1996
When a colossal stone nearly two miles high mysteriously appears overnight in the African nation of Togwana, biblical archaeologist Dr. Jacob Cooper and his teenage children, Jay and Lila, are summoned to investigate. The impossible formation has disrupted the plans of ruthless dictator Idi Nkromo, whose armed forces watch the Coopers closely as they attempt to uncover its origins. After their aircraft is forced down on the far side of the stone, the family encounters an isolated community whose beliefs challenge their assumptions about both the mysterious structure and its purpose. As military threats mount and extraordinary events unfold, the Coopers must rely on their faith and resourcefulness to discover the truth before disaster strikes. Blending biblical symbolism, international adventure, and an unusual supernatural mystery, this Cooper Kids installment is ideal for young readers who enjoy archaeological puzzles, daring explorations, and stories that strengthen their faith.
Paired for this story
Jump to the pours ↓Spiced Sorrel Punch + Gin and Tonic
Choose your bookseller
Find the Book
Print retailers offer a search when an exact edition is unavailable. Kindle links open a specific edition. Audiobook links may open an edition or a search.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Book Bartender earns from qualifying purchases. Bookshop.org links also earn us a commission on qualifying purchases. Your price is not affected. Read the full affiliate disclosure.
No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Military intimidation, armed soldiers, and threatened execution by firing squad; Deaths during a supernatural catastrophe; Frightening rumors of cannibalism, later shown to be unfounded
Alcohol-Free Pour
Spiced Sorrel Punch
Ruby-red hibiscus, ginger, and warm spices offer a taste inspired by African beverage traditions, complementing the Coopers' journey into Togwana and their discovery of unexpected faith beyond the mysterious stone.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep hibiscus tea with ginger and cinnamon, then chill. Stir in orange juice and simple syrup and serve over ice.
- Garnish: Orange wheel.
- Glassware: Highball glass.
Shop glassware & tools
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Highball glass ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Gin and Tonic
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Crisp gin, bittersweet tonic, and fresh lime offer a refreshing contrast to Togwana's desert heat, while the drink's sharp edge reflects the danger surrounding the Coopers' mysterious discovery.
What you'll need
- 2 oz gin
- 4 oz tonic water ↗
- 1 lime wedge ↗
- Ice
Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.
How to mix it
- Fill a highball glass with ice. Add the gin, then gently pour in the tonic water. Stir briefly to combine. Squeeze the lime wedge over the drink and add it to the glass.
- Garnish: Lime wedge.
- Glassware: Highball glass.
Shop glassware & tools
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Highball glass ↗Set up the bar cart
Shop the Barware
Find the glasses and tools for your next pour.