Jean M. Auel books

Complete list of books by Jean M. Auel. Browse the Earth's Children series.

Earth’s Children Reading Order

Title Published Buy on Amazon
The Clan of the Cave Bear 1980 Buy
The Valley of Horses 1982 Buy
The Mammoth Hunters 1985 Buy
The Plains of Passage 1990 Buy
The Shelters of Stone 2002 Buy

Series: Earth’s Children | Character: Ayla

View all Earth’s Children books

Jean M. Auel’s Earth’s Children series follows Ayla, a Cro-Magnon orphan adopted by Neanderthals, as she navigates prehistoric Europe. Auel spent years researching the archaeology and anthropology of her settings, learning survival skills from experts and visiting prehistoric sites across Europe.

The six books span Ayla’s life from childhood to maturity. She travels across prehistoric Europe, encountering different peoples and cultures. The series explores adaptation, belonging, and being different from those around you. Ayla is exceptional - intelligent, curious, and skilled - whose talents sometimes make her an outcast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What order should I read Jean M. Auel's books?

Start with The Clan of the Cave Bear (1980) and read the Earth’s Children series in order. The six books form one continuous story of Ayla’s journey through prehistoric Europe.

How many books are in the Earth's Children series?

Jean M. Auel has written 15 books across 2 series.

Is the Earth's Children series historically accurate?

Auel spent years researching archaeology, paleontology, and anthropology before writing. Many details are accurate, though some scientific understanding has evolved since publication.

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