I finished Fablehaven and, as I suspected, I found it enjoyable. As the first book of the series, it has the job of introducing lots of fantastical elements and it does so through the eyes of through the thirteen (I think that’s right) year old Kendra and her little brother, Seth. Though, mostly through Kendra. I like the cautious Kendra, but I found Seth a little irritating as he completely disregards safety time and time again. Doesn’t the kid ever learn anything?

Anyhow, I thought the author, Brandon Mull, does a great job of introducing this world of magical creatures bit by bit and providing a sense of wonder through his young protagonists. It’s good pacing for this sort of story where there is a lot to discover.

Character development is decent. There’s a sense of Kendra learning to be brave when she needs to, but I feel like the author has left plenty of potential for more growth in the next books of the series.

There’s a little bit of violence, but nothing I’d worry about. Any story with danger and action is bound to have a little and this is very mild. Overall, I don’t think there is any content of concern for young readers. This is a great read for middle-graders who like some fantasy and adventure. It can be an entertaining read for older readers too, but it does feel like a book for kids so I can see older readers wanting more that what’s there. I enjoyed it, but I’m writing middle-grade fiction so I have an interest in this kind of kidlit other adults don’t.

Next up is going to be ‘Leviathan’ by Scott Westerfeld

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