El Chupacabras -- The Goatsucker
--a rumored beast with a fanged mouth, enormous red eyes, and thin clawed arms; its name alone ignites the imagination.
With visions of this urban legend in their heads Tyler and Tommy Oliver and their new stepsister, Paige, arrive in tropical Belize for a family vacation. There they meet Peto and Natalie, the only other children on the small island where they are staying.
To their delight, Peto has not only heard of
El Chupacabras
, he is convinced there is a goatsucker on the island. Adding to this is Reaux, the resort manager, who tells of encountering a goatsucker.
Following the clues the children learn about life on a barrier reef, the ancient Maya, Caribbean cultures and the power of urban legends. Most importantly, Tyler and Tommy learn to respect and value Paige, finally accepting her as their sister.