Ariki and Ipo are making the most of a beautiful day, sailing the sea near Turtle Island on a 'borrowed' boat. They're too busy daydreaming to spot the grey clouds gathering overhead - but then a terrible storm breaks, carrying them miles from home. After days without food or drink, they are washed up on an unfamiliar island. The island is beautiful beyond belief: they see butterflies, each one lovelier than the last, lizards chasing across the rocks and, most wonderful of all, a gigantic blue bird with eyes that glow purple. When they meet another castaway, however, the children discover this island is no paradise - there are dangers lurking in the shadows!