Fablehaven: Grip of the Shadow Plague
By Brandon Mull
ISBN: 978-1-59038-742-9
Review by Heather Froeschl
Title to be released April 21, 2008
Darkness spreads and shadows grow in the greatest Brandon Mull adventure yet. “Fablehaven: Grip of the Shadow Plague” will have readers shining a flashlight into dark corners and under the blankets to stay up reading into the night. The fantasy realm hasn’t been so threatened since a certain ring was cast in another series of books. Can hope remain that the magical sanctuary of Fablehaven will not meet its demise along with centaurs, fairies, dwarfs, dryads, and our heroes, Seth and Kendra?
Books like the Fablehaven series are not commonly found. A series that captivates attention, inspires imagination, encourages reluctant readers, and offers books that stand alone, not demanding that the previous books have been read, but absolutely beguiling readers to do so, is a true gift. “Grip of the Shadow Plague” does continue the story of Seth and Kendra and Fablehaven, the sanctuary for magical creatures that their grandparents are the caretakers of. Nearly 15 year old Kendra and her brother, twelve year old Seth, are still at the refuge, where we left them in “Fablehaven: Rise of the Evening Star.” Their parents would like them to return home, but Grandma and Grandpa Sorenson fear the children would be in great danger away from the protection that Fablehaven offers. But is it really so safe on the preserve?
Kendra is given a great honor in this book; she is to be inducted as a knight to The Knights of the Dawn, protectors of the five secret magical preserves. Soon after, she is given her first assignment, one which involves a magical item, a dragon, deadly traps, and a visit to another preserve. Suspicion rises that the Captain of the Knights is corrupt, possibly someone whom they have suspected, and so refusing the mission is not in the best interest if Kendra hopes to find out the truth. Back at Fablehaven, Seth uncovers a darkening of magical creatures; dark fairies attempt to attack him, and a plague is revealed. Discovering who unleashed the shadows is possibly the key to ending the disaster before it spreads too far. When friends Coulter and Tanu are turned to shadow creatures, time becomes a precious commodity. Fablehaven could fall, ending an era of magic and light. It will take every ounce of courage, intelligence and cunning to save the preserve. Will the Sorensons be able to survive?
Brandon Mull offers a more intellectually stimulating and exciting adventure in this book. The characters are growing and their capabilities expanding. The language of the book is more mature, leading readers to learn as they enjoy the story. This feat alone is to be commended. The plot is rich, intricate and well rounded, with moments of humor and instances of tender feeling. Above all else it is a captivating tale of magical beings and exceptionally strong souled children. Here are role models for readers and a crack in the wall that hides fantasy and possibility from the real world. Do you dare to take a peek? Do you dare not?
Showing posts with label fairies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fairies. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Monday, March 5, 2007
Children's/YA Fantasy Fiction Review
Fablehaven Rise of the Evening Star
by Brandon Mull
ISBN-10: 1590387643
When the world needs protection, and magical beings are at risk, the power of youth is called into action. In Brandon Mull’s newest book “Fablehaven: Rise of the Evening Star,” readers will be swept up in the fantastical realm of the unusual and unexpected.
Kendra is fourteen years old and her brother Seth is twelve. Their youth and energy will see them through some amazing adventures as the school year ends and summer begins. The magic won’t wait for the two to enter their grandparents’ home in Fablehaven, a refuge for magical creatures. Something lurks the school halls, and someone tricks Seth into letting loose a goblin. A phone call from Grandpa Sorenson warns of danger and explains the need for the siblings to help protect the sanctuary. An ancient artifact is hidden somewhere on Fablehaven and with the help of some of their grandparents’ companions, Kendra and Seth have to find it before the Society of the Evening Star discovers it. The safety of the world depends on this quest, and the future of magical creatures everywhere hinges on the outcome.
Kendra finds that she has some amazing, fairy gifted, abilities, like seeing in the dark and understanding different languages. Seth finds that he is braver than he ever dreamed possible, but smart enough to know when a little fright and caution is a good thing. Together, the two will uncover mysteries, make their way through Brownie tunnels, and face terrors of high proportions. Will they figure out who has infiltrated Fablehaven? Can they get to the artifact before it is too late? Do you know who to trust?
Brandon Mull has done it again. His works are an absolute escape into fantasy but with a grounded foundation in reality that makes it all the easier to fall under his trance. This stand alone book, the second in the series, is much anticipated, but it will also leave readers frantic for more. The implications of future storylines are highly enticing and promise great enjoyment. Mull has a way of drawing in even the most reluctant of readers. His characters are teeming with strengths and abilities, weaknesses and faults. The imagination is set free, all the while inspiring readers to discover their own inner selves. With a social message or two, Brandon Mull has penned another masterpiece. In the traditions of Tolkien and Rowland, but with a wonderful style that is all his own, this author is one to watch and eagerly anticipate future works from.
by Brandon Mull
ISBN-10: 1590387643
When the world needs protection, and magical beings are at risk, the power of youth is called into action. In Brandon Mull’s newest book “Fablehaven: Rise of the Evening Star,” readers will be swept up in the fantastical realm of the unusual and unexpected.
Kendra is fourteen years old and her brother Seth is twelve. Their youth and energy will see them through some amazing adventures as the school year ends and summer begins. The magic won’t wait for the two to enter their grandparents’ home in Fablehaven, a refuge for magical creatures. Something lurks the school halls, and someone tricks Seth into letting loose a goblin. A phone call from Grandpa Sorenson warns of danger and explains the need for the siblings to help protect the sanctuary. An ancient artifact is hidden somewhere on Fablehaven and with the help of some of their grandparents’ companions, Kendra and Seth have to find it before the Society of the Evening Star discovers it. The safety of the world depends on this quest, and the future of magical creatures everywhere hinges on the outcome.
Kendra finds that she has some amazing, fairy gifted, abilities, like seeing in the dark and understanding different languages. Seth finds that he is braver than he ever dreamed possible, but smart enough to know when a little fright and caution is a good thing. Together, the two will uncover mysteries, make their way through Brownie tunnels, and face terrors of high proportions. Will they figure out who has infiltrated Fablehaven? Can they get to the artifact before it is too late? Do you know who to trust?
Brandon Mull has done it again. His works are an absolute escape into fantasy but with a grounded foundation in reality that makes it all the easier to fall under his trance. This stand alone book, the second in the series, is much anticipated, but it will also leave readers frantic for more. The implications of future storylines are highly enticing and promise great enjoyment. Mull has a way of drawing in even the most reluctant of readers. His characters are teeming with strengths and abilities, weaknesses and faults. The imagination is set free, all the while inspiring readers to discover their own inner selves. With a social message or two, Brandon Mull has penned another masterpiece. In the traditions of Tolkien and Rowland, but with a wonderful style that is all his own, this author is one to watch and eagerly anticipate future works from.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Children's/YA Fiction Fantasy Review
Fablehaven
by Brandon Mull
ISBN-10: 1416947205
Where have all the fairies gone? To Fablehaven of course! A preserve for magical creatures awaits your visit in Brandon Mull's fantastical, wonderful book, "Fablehaven." Look out J.K. Rowling; the fantasy genre has an outstanding new author to embrace!
"None who enter will leave unchanged" as readers take a look into Fablehaven. 13-year-old Kendra and her 11-year-old brother Seth think they are in for a boring two weeks at their grandparent's home in Connecticut. Their parents are off on a cruise and the huge house comes with a lot of rules. Grandpa offers no good reason to stay out of the woods but he does promise terrible punishment - confinement to the attic playroom - if the children disobey. Naturally this leads Seth to the forest edge and beyond. What waits for him is beyond his comprehension. Kendra meanwhile, takes time to unravel a puzzle Grandpa has given her, involving three keys that go to hidden keyholes in the playroom. This unlocks more than her imagination can allow and leads her to "Drink the milk." The mystery lies in what happens after the milk is consumed...wondrous sights and sounds that previously appeared as nothing more than butterflies.
Adventure and excitement abound as the siblings delve ever deeper into the secrets of Fablehaven. Grandpa has hidden much from them until they have proven that they are the right sort of people for the experience. With wonder around every corner, and under every leaf, this book will entrance readers. "Trespassers will be turned to stone," but the magic that is revealed for those who are welcomed inside is a treasure indeed. Welcome readers, to a trip you will never forget.
The plot of "Fablehaven" is fast paced, precise and perfect. It is a truly captivating tale. The characters instantly turn into children the readers know, if not, in fact, themselves. Seeing yourself in the pages of a book as magical as this one is a precious gift. The descriptive writing will put you deep into a cave, escaping an ogress, and just as easily into a beautiful garden rich with flowers and fairies. A return visit to "Fablehaven" will be on the wish list of every reader. This is a terrific book and I see great things in store for Brandon Mull.
by Brandon Mull
ISBN-10: 1416947205
Where have all the fairies gone? To Fablehaven of course! A preserve for magical creatures awaits your visit in Brandon Mull's fantastical, wonderful book, "Fablehaven." Look out J.K. Rowling; the fantasy genre has an outstanding new author to embrace!
"None who enter will leave unchanged" as readers take a look into Fablehaven. 13-year-old Kendra and her 11-year-old brother Seth think they are in for a boring two weeks at their grandparent's home in Connecticut. Their parents are off on a cruise and the huge house comes with a lot of rules. Grandpa offers no good reason to stay out of the woods but he does promise terrible punishment - confinement to the attic playroom - if the children disobey. Naturally this leads Seth to the forest edge and beyond. What waits for him is beyond his comprehension. Kendra meanwhile, takes time to unravel a puzzle Grandpa has given her, involving three keys that go to hidden keyholes in the playroom. This unlocks more than her imagination can allow and leads her to "Drink the milk." The mystery lies in what happens after the milk is consumed...wondrous sights and sounds that previously appeared as nothing more than butterflies.
Adventure and excitement abound as the siblings delve ever deeper into the secrets of Fablehaven. Grandpa has hidden much from them until they have proven that they are the right sort of people for the experience. With wonder around every corner, and under every leaf, this book will entrance readers. "Trespassers will be turned to stone," but the magic that is revealed for those who are welcomed inside is a treasure indeed. Welcome readers, to a trip you will never forget.
The plot of "Fablehaven" is fast paced, precise and perfect. It is a truly captivating tale. The characters instantly turn into children the readers know, if not, in fact, themselves. Seeing yourself in the pages of a book as magical as this one is a precious gift. The descriptive writing will put you deep into a cave, escaping an ogress, and just as easily into a beautiful garden rich with flowers and fairies. A return visit to "Fablehaven" will be on the wish list of every reader. This is a terrific book and I see great things in store for Brandon Mull.
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