I'd be very grateful for any advice on the following pitch...
12-year-old Lily can talk to animals, but all she wants is her dad back. When a dangerous man imprisons him on a faraway island, she and her friends must cross jungles and seas to reach him, but the island hides a deadly secret that threatens everyone she loves.
This is a compelling premise, Barrie. Well done. My personal preference is your second one, because the stakes (Dad is lost forever) is more personal to Lily.