Young Reader Book Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – An immersive adventure on an epic scale

A few weeks ago, I finished reading the book ‘The One and Only Ivan’ to my 9 year old. It’s a warm kid-friendly take on a terrible story about a gorilla locked up in a mall for decades. But the story was approachable and my son seemed to enjoy it. Before we dived into the sequels (there are three more), I decided to start a different book entitled ‘Habilis: The Aura Seed’. Unlike Katherine Applegate, the author of ‘The One and Only Ivan’, I had never heard of the author of ‘Habilis: The Aura Seed’.

 The only knowledge I had going into it was that it was in the young readers section of my local library and my son picked it our along with some other random Dog Man graphic novels.

 Opening the book, it features some interesting looking creatures almost set in a reference format, so it seems like there is going to be some world-building as part of this book. This was a pretty big concern of mine, since my son is not the best at following new story inventions. I figured I would deal with the usual question asking as the book went along.

 I can tell you that the beginning of the book is a bit slow, mainly because you can see the author is building the story and the reason for the ‘quest’ as it’s called. However, after about chapter four, my son did not want me to put it down. The story has so many dynamic qualities about relationships between characters, but more than anything this book is an epic adventure.

 It’s the kind of adventure I yearn to share with my son. So many books catered to a 9-year-old boy are graphic novels filled with bathroom jokes and bright colors. This book feels special. It feels like a book designed to draw a young mind into a world filled with endless possibilities of danger and redemption.

 Overall, the book has sort of a Tolkein feel, but different enough so that it isn’t annoying. The best thing about this book is that the author really captured his audience and the story ebbs and flows perfectly for younger readers. It’s a genuinely solid story filled with twists and turns and narrow misses. And whereas there is nothing particularly gruesome in the book, there are some heart-wrenching scenes where my son expressed some intense sadness. These are temporary luckily and (spoiler alert) everything works out just fine in the end.

 My only criticism is the length of the book. It feels a bit light, considering the amount of world-building taking place. Things feel like they get resolved too quickly or the exchanges with certain characters feel too brief.

 The books leaves room for a sequel at the end and indeed it looks like another book is coming in 2026. My son and I really bonded with this book, not unlike the first book in the Harry Potter series we had previously read together. Certainly Habilis is no Harry Potter, but it does have the ability to pull you into the story and keep you wanting more.

 Overall, I certainly recommend this to all young readers, and my son and I are genuinely hoping for a long amazing series of these books in the future.

We join Welim, a mild-mannered Habilis, who has been tasked with the most important quest in generations. When the moon begins to change, he knows his quest has begun. But he can’t do it alone. Alongside his friend Remik, he must prevent the spread of an ancient parasite that feeds off all living things before it’s too late. Which is easier said than done when a pack of ferocious Kangals is hunting them down. Join them on a fraught adventure through lush forests, frozen tundras, and putrid caves. Along the way, they find out much more than just what they are capable of.

Welim, a mild-mannered Habilis, never imagined he would be chosen for the most important quest in generations. But when the moon begins to change, signaling the start of his quest, he must rise to the challenge. Alongside his brave friend Remik, Welim embarks on a perilous journey to stop the spread of an ancient parasite that feeds on all living things.

Their path is fraught with danger—ferocious Kangals relentlessly pursue them, while lush forests, frozen tundras, and putrid caves test their resolve. As the duo battles against time and nature’s fiercest obstacles, they uncover more than just their hidden strength—they unravel truths that could reshape their world.
A thrilling adventure of courage, friendship, and survival awaits in Habilis: The Aura Seed.

Habilis: The Aura Seed  is the debut novel by author E.K. Mikulski, a proud father of two boys, living in Connecticut with his wife Monica. Inspired by a love of storytelling and a desire to create something special for his children, he wrote Habilis: The Aura Seed, an adventure novel for young readers. Originally written solely as a gift for his sons, the book quickly garnered widespread acclaim from early readers, encouraging Mikulski to publish it for a broader audience.

 With its blend of excitement, imagination, and life lessons, Habilis: The Aura Seed marks the beginning of an upcoming series of books featuring these characters. When not writing, Mikulski enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and exploring the outdoors.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A magical journey

Katherine Rundell’s Impossible Creatures is a spellbinding journey into a world where myth and magic are not just alive but bursting with wonder. This enchanting tale cements Rundell’s reputation as one of the finest storytellers of our time, weaving a story that feels both timeless and entirely original.

The story follows Christopher, an ordinary boy thrust into an extraordinary adventure, and Mal, a fierce and mysterious girl who belongs to the Archipelago, a hidden realm where mythical creatures thrive. Together, they must navigate dangers, uncover secrets, and protect their worlds from forces that threaten to destroy them.

Rundell’s prose is lush and evocative, painting vivid pictures of fantastical landscapes and the creatures that inhabit them. From phoenixes to unicorns, each mythical being is brought to life with a blend of whimsy and reverence, capturing the imagination and tugging at the heartstrings.

Beneath the surface of this magical adventure lies a deeper exploration of courage, loyalty, and the delicate balance between belief and skepticism. Rundell masterfully balances high-stakes action with quieter, reflective moments, ensuring that readers of all ages will find something to treasure.

The pacing is perfect, propelling readers forward while leaving enough room to savor the story’s rich details. Rundell’s characters, particularly Christopher and Mal, are complex, relatable, and deeply human, even in the face of impossible wonders.

Impossible Creatures is a triumph—a story that feels like a classic in the making, brimming with magic, heart, and the kind of adventure that lingers long after the final page. It’s a must-read for fans of fantasy and anyone who believes in the power of imagination. Five stars for this unforgettable journey!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – a fascinating mystery

Angela Cervantes delivers a gripping, spine-tingling tale in The Cursed Moon, blending cultural folklore with contemporary issues in a story that’s as heartfelt as it is haunting. This middle-grade novel is a perfect balance of chills and warmth, making it a standout addition to any bookshelf.

Rafael Fuentes, the story’s protagonist, is a relatable and complex character. Torn between his love of scary stories and his superstitions about La Llorona—a ghostly figure from Mexican folklore—Rafa is pulled into a mystery that challenges his bravery and deepens his understanding of his family and heritage. The plot takes a thrilling turn as he dares to confront the eerie secrets of his town, setting the stage for a page-turning adventure.

Cervantes skillfully weaves elements of Latinx culture and storytelling into the narrative, offering a rich exploration of traditions and fears passed down through generations. At its core, The Cursed Moon is not just a ghost story—it’s a tale about courage, friendship, and the ways we confront the shadows, both real and imagined, in our lives.

The atmospheric writing immerses readers in the suspenseful world Cervantes has crafted, while her attention to character development ensures the emotional stakes remain high. The book’s pacing keeps readers hooked, and the resolution is both satisfying and thought-provoking.

Perfect for fans of spooky tales and culturally rich narratives, The Cursed Moon is a must-read that delivers thrills and depth in equal measure. Five stars for this unputdownable gem of a story!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A complex royal story

Erin A. Craig weaves a spellbinding gothic fantasy in The Thirteenth Child, a story brimming with magic, heartache, and hard-earned resilience. At its center is Hazel Trépas, a thirteenth child born under an ominous prophecy and gifted to Merrick, the god of death, as her godfather. Her journey is one of extraordinary growth, as she balances her talent for healing with the burden of determining the fates of those she treats—a harrowing gift that forces her to grapple with life, loss, and her own humanity.

Craig’s atmospheric storytelling shines as Hazel navigates a complex royal court, political intrigue, and an intense romance with Leo, a spirited prince. The author’s nuanced characterizations bring both Hazel and Merrick to life; Merrick, though a god, showcases a deeply paternal yet flawed bond with Hazel, adding layers of emotional depth. Hazel’s internal struggles with love, duty, and moral ambiguity make her a compelling protagonist, while the richly imagined world enchants with its fairy-tale roots and intricate mythology.

The themes of compassion, sacrifice, and self-discovery resonate deeply, and the story’s breathtaking conclusion is both poetic and heart-wrenching. The Thirteenth Child invites readers to ponder what it truly means to live a meaningful life while making impossible choices for those we hold dear.

A must-read for fans of gothic fantasy and fairy-tale retellings, this novel captures the complexity of human emotions against the backdrop of a meticulously crafted magical world. Highly recommended for YA and adult audiences alike.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Great for the whole family

Katherine Applegate continues to dazzle readers with The One and Only Family, a poignant and beautifully written companion to The One and Only Ivan and The One and Only Bob. Applegate once again combines her signature mix of humor, heart, and powerful storytelling to explore themes of love, loyalty, and the families we choose.

The story follows Ruby, the sweet and inquisitive young elephant from the earlier books, as she embarks on a journey to define what family truly means. With her gentle wisdom and infectious curiosity, Ruby leads readers on an emotional adventure full of new friendships, difficult decisions, and unexpected moments of joy.

Applegate’s prose is as lyrical as ever, and her ability to speak to readers of all ages shines through. The book’s message about inclusion and understanding is universal, and its animal cast, brimming with personality and charm, provides an accessible yet profound lens to explore these ideas.

The accompanying illustrations by Patricia Castelao add depth and warmth, making the story even more immersive. The vibrant artwork complements Applegate’s vivid descriptions and helps bring Ruby’s world to life.

The One and Only Family is a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and the power of community. It’s a perfect read for families, classrooms, and anyone who treasures stories with heart and humanity. Applegate has delivered yet another timeless classic, solidifying her place as one of the most cherished storytellers of our time.

This book deserves a place on every bookshelf. Five shining stars for Ruby and her unforgettable journey!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- vibrant and engaging

Amy Sparkes returns with The Tower at the End of Time, a dazzling sequel to The House at the Edge of Magic. Brimming with humor, heart, and boundless imagination, this middle-grade fantasy is a delightful read that captures the whimsy of a magical world while delivering a heartfelt exploration of bravery and belonging.

The story follows Nine, the resourceful and determined heroine, as she embarks on a new adventure to save her quirky companions and their beloved magical house. This time, the stakes are higher, with the mysterious Tower at the End of Time looming on the horizon. Sparkes crafts a rich and enchanting world filled with unexpected twists, lovable characters, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

The ensemble cast shines, from the grumpy Spoon to the eccentric wizard Flabberghast, each contributing to the story’s charm and hilarity. Nine’s growth as she learns to trust and embrace the concept of family adds a layer of emotional depth, making her journey all the more compelling.

Sparkes’ writing is as vibrant and engaging as ever, with vivid descriptions and a knack for capturing the absurd in the most delightful ways. The pacing keeps readers glued to the pages, and the inventive magic system continues to amaze and surprise.

The Tower at the End of Time is a masterful blend of adventure, humor, and heart, perfect for readers who love a touch of chaos in their fantasy worlds. With its clever twists and an ending that leaves you eagerly anticipating more, this book is a five-star treasure for young readers and the young at heart.