Dad! The Animals Told Me Mom Is Still Alive

The Story

A snowstorm in the Seattle suburbs traps Adrian Sterling on the highway when barefoot Maisie Hale bursts from the woods. The wealthy heir rescues the neglected girl, who suffers from fever, pneumonia, and severe dehydration. Doctors uncover old and fresh bruises on her body. Maisie clutches a photo of her mother, Vivian, insisting she is alive despite everyone claiming otherwise. Adrian is stunned to recognize Vivian as his former lover, whom he has searched for nearly six years. Maisie possesses a unique ability to understand the voices and feelings of animals, though they can only share information they have personally experienced. Adrian trusts her but insists adults verify every clue. Victor and Denise, who obtained temporary guardianship after Vivian’s disappearance, abused the child and embezzled her welfare benefits. Police search the Hale residence basement, recovering Vivian’s belongings and account records. Under interrogation pressure, the couple turns on each other. Both confess to assaulting the child and are arrested by law enforcement.