No, Ayla: The Daughter of a Stone Age People is not based on a true story. It is a fictional novel written by Jean M. Auel and published in 1980.
While the book presents a detailed and realistic portrayal of Paleolithic life, it is a product of Auel's extensive research and imagination. She meticulously researched the archaeological evidence and anthropological studies of the period, including the Neanderthals and Cro-Magnon people.
Auel's goal was to create a believable and immersive story about a young girl raised by a Neanderthal tribe. The book explores themes of survival, family, love, and the complex relationship between different human species.
The success of Ayla led to the publication of five sequels, collectively known as the Earth's Children series. These books continue to explore the lives of Ayla and her descendants in the Paleolithic era.
