About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels small or overlooked in a world that feels increasingly complex and intimidating. It is an ideal choice for the middle-grade reader who gravitates toward darker, atmospheric stories and is ready to explore themes of hidden courage and the weight of tradition. The story follows Gamaliel Tiptree, a member of the tiny Werlings who live in fear of the ancient, predatory Rhul. It explores the necessity of self-reliance and the discovery of inner power when external protections fail. While the book is categorized as animal fantasy, its emotional core is deeply human, focusing on resilience and the loss of innocence. Robin Jarvis does not shy away from the darker elements of folklore, making this a rewarding read for children who find comfort in seeing characters overcome genuine, high-stakes danger. Parents might choose this to help a child process the transition from being protected by adults to finding their own agency in the face of peer pressure or systemic threats.
