Enchanted Everglades: Friend for Life - G. A. Kowatch - Bog

12-year-olds Ocean River and Ellen Hansen were best friends until a tragedy put them at odds. Then an airboat ride through the Everglades, planned before their falling out, results in a crash, landing them in a jungle-like atmosphere. Suddenly, with the help of a legendary Seminole ghost, Ocean and Ellen realize they can communicate with animals. They meet the anxious but peace-loving alligator Gumbo and his cohorts--a naive baby turtle and a wise wood stork--who are intent on helping these adolescents find their way home.