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Raised by Wolves: A Thriller
From the Author of The Girl in the Castle
Two strangers. One small town. And a choice that could change everything.
The police respond to the arrival of two teens at the grocery store. They don’t speak English. They don’t speak at all. They’re brother and sister and, for all anybody can tell, they’ve been raised in the forest.
Two teens appear out of nowhere, ransacking a small-town grocery and attacking the police officers who come to investigate. Their clothes are torn and filthy, their hands and bare feet callused, they have fangs. They’re sister and brother, alone against the world. Where did they come from? Raised by wolves, they say.
Kai and Holo are taken in by the police chief and his wife, and begin adjusting to life in a small town, attending school and going on dates. But humans, they find, are the most vicious animals. And the mystery of their upbringing brings dark and powerful forces to Kokanee Creek, tearing the town apart and threatening the lives of everyone they love. How will the wolves survive? How will Kai and Holo?
Two strangers. One small town. And a choice that could change everything.
The police respond to the arrival of two teens at the grocery store. They don’t speak English. They don’t speak at all. They’re brother and sister and, for all anybody can tell, they’ve been raised in the forest.
Two teens appear out of nowhere, ransacking a small-town grocery and attacking the police officers who come to investigate. Their clothes are torn and filthy, their hands and bare feet callused, they have fangs. They’re sister and brother, alone against the world. Where did they come from? Raised by wolves, they say.
Kai and Holo are taken in by the police chief and his wife, and begin adjusting to life in a small town, attending school and going on dates. But humans, they find, are the most vicious animals. And the mystery of their upbringing brings dark and powerful forces to Kokanee Creek, tearing the town apart and threatening the lives of everyone they love. How will the wolves survive? How will Kai and Holo?
512 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2024
778 people are currently reading
2512 people want to read
About the author
James Patterson
955 books355k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 514 reviews
December 14, 2024
I really feel this is young adult material. Personally, I enjoy young adult books. It was well written and a good read. The plot was good, believable would be stretching it a little, but you know…this is why they call it fiction. I enjoyed the characters. I would have liked to have seen a different outcome on some of them. The ending was not what I wanted but was probably what was needed. If your goal is light reading, this book is for you. I would have given it a 3.5 but Mr Patterson has earned the right to have this story rounded up to a 4.
November 11, 2024
“People want to disappear sometimes. But that doesn’t mean they don’t want someone coming after them. It doesn’t mean they don’t want to be found.”
“It’s possible to be found and lost at the same time. And Holo and I know all about what it feels like.”
This was not the thriller I was expecting. It came across as a little too YA for my liking. It wasn’t the taut read that I expected, and I had to suspend disbelief often.
That being said, I enjoyed the book.
It asks the reader to:
(1) question the similarities between a family and a wolf pack, particularly the idea that we assume roles within the group to help the group thrive.
(2) ponder if the two species are more alike than we previously thought.
(3) redefine our definition of a family and question if we have a right to judge the choices made within other family units. We all parent differently. Who’s to say what’s ‘right’, as long as the best interests of all involved are considered.
I enjoyed the examination of what it means to be lost/found and what’s involved in taking care of someone and protecting someone.
Advice? Hang in there until the mid-point and then brace yourself for a plot twist.
I was gifted this paperback copy by Grand Central Publishing/Hachette and was under no obligation to provide a review.
“It’s possible to be found and lost at the same time. And Holo and I know all about what it feels like.”
This was not the thriller I was expecting. It came across as a little too YA for my liking. It wasn’t the taut read that I expected, and I had to suspend disbelief often.
That being said, I enjoyed the book.
It asks the reader to:
(1) question the similarities between a family and a wolf pack, particularly the idea that we assume roles within the group to help the group thrive.
(2) ponder if the two species are more alike than we previously thought.
(3) redefine our definition of a family and question if we have a right to judge the choices made within other family units. We all parent differently. Who’s to say what’s ‘right’, as long as the best interests of all involved are considered.
I enjoyed the examination of what it means to be lost/found and what’s involved in taking care of someone and protecting someone.
Advice? Hang in there until the mid-point and then brace yourself for a plot twist.
I was gifted this paperback copy by Grand Central Publishing/Hachette and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 13, 2025
Nothing worthwhile.
June 14, 2024
This was my first James Patterson, and it was quite a ride. For me, it was kinda nice not knowing quite where it would end up. By the end, I wasn't completely sure how I wanted to end and was satisfied with the outcome.
Now I'd like to read many more Patterson books. I completely understand the hype and how his novels transcend both age and gender preferences. This is a book I think everyone will love!
Now I'd like to read many more Patterson books. I completely understand the hype and how his novels transcend both age and gender preferences. This is a book I think everyone will love!
January 10, 2025
Raised by Wolves by James Patterson. It is a rare moment that I read a book and have so much running through my head I can’t put it in words. One thing I can say is this book represents everything I hate about humans and everything I love about the loyalty of animals
February 13, 2025
I really enjoyed the audio of RAISED BY WOLVES. This book surprised me in that it wasn't what I expected, but still extremely good. It had young adult vibes and I'd love to see a book 2 although no idea if that's in the works.
December 19, 2024
Raised by Wolves by James Patterson is a quick read. It is about two teenagers, Kai and Holo found in a small town and they claimed to be raised by a pack of wild wolves.
When found they are eating anything and everything in a small town convenience store. But how did they survive? How could they speak perfect English? How were they able to achieve perfect scores on achievement tests in a High School setting? Find the answers to these questions and more.
I recommend this book to a Young Adult audience. It is a fast and easy read that leaves you questioning the good and bad of humanity.
When found they are eating anything and everything in a small town convenience store. But how did they survive? How could they speak perfect English? How were they able to achieve perfect scores on achievement tests in a High School setting? Find the answers to these questions and more.
I recommend this book to a Young Adult audience. It is a fast and easy read that leaves you questioning the good and bad of humanity.
February 17, 2025
This isn’t my first James Patterson book, and it definitely isn’t my first dual author Patterson novel, but it was the first time I felt like he didn’t write a lick of it.
Not that I’m mad about that. I don’t know if I care for his story crafting anymore so it didn’t really matter to me. I just wish these coauthors could write and publish their own novels without plastering his name on the cover to get people to buy it.
Anyways, the book was okay. There were a few times I kept wondering what the point of the book even was. It seemed like too many ideas shoved into one novel. And the end seemed so abrupt and unfinished that I’m left with a few unanswered questions.
Not that I’m mad about that. I don’t know if I care for his story crafting anymore so it didn’t really matter to me. I just wish these coauthors could write and publish their own novels without plastering his name on the cover to get people to buy it.
Anyways, the book was okay. There were a few times I kept wondering what the point of the book even was. It seemed like too many ideas shoved into one novel. And the end seemed so abrupt and unfinished that I’m left with a few unanswered questions.
November 15, 2024
There were a few things about this book that annoyed me. 1. There really wasn't much suspense, mystery, or anything at all... It didn't really go anywhere. 2. This isn't listed as a YA novel, but that's what it is 3. It felt like a very long PSA for various environmental causes and that's not really something I'm interested in reading about.
November 18, 2024
This book starts off wild and chaotic, and I was immediately hooked! We’re introduced to feral siblings Kai and Holo, who seem more animal than human. I found the plot intriguing enough to keep me reading. I just had to know how these teens raised by wolves knew how to talk, read, and solve complex math problems!
I loved how the book explores the struggle of fitting in when your instincts clash with everything society expects. The relationship between Kai and Holo was my favorite part. They’re fiercely loyal to each other. Kai’s POV gives it a YA thriller vibe, but the deeper themes of belonging and identity make it stand out. The chief and his wife are also standout characters for me!
Plus, I learned so much about wolves! I loved all their scenes. However, the ending left me with mixed feelings. It’s kind of open-ended, and while that feels realistic, I was hoping for just a bit more closure.
I loved how the book explores the struggle of fitting in when your instincts clash with everything society expects. The relationship between Kai and Holo was my favorite part. They’re fiercely loyal to each other. Kai’s POV gives it a YA thriller vibe, but the deeper themes of belonging and identity make it stand out. The chief and his wife are also standout characters for me!
Plus, I learned so much about wolves! I loved all their scenes. However, the ending left me with mixed feelings. It’s kind of open-ended, and while that feels realistic, I was hoping for just a bit more closure.
November 6, 2024
The premise of the book made it sound amazing.
The actual book was a rambling mess.
I cannot say I enjoy any part of it and giving it 2 stars is generous.
I think perhaps this was written for a young audience.
The actual book was a rambling mess.
I cannot say I enjoy any part of it and giving it 2 stars is generous.
I think perhaps this was written for a young audience.
January 14, 2025
Well written unique story - didn't want to stop reading, once I started - many different characters but easy to understand and follow - not exactly the ending I had hoped for but not an unpleasant ending - maybe a follow up later???
April 7, 2025
This is my first Patterson, although if other reviews are anything to go by, it seems like this book is more Emily Raymond than Patterson himself. The reason why these books are popular is clear. Short, easy to digest chapters, tons of plot happening, dramatic moments with movie trailer line dialogue. All of the complaints about "these types" of books are also valid. The characters are cliche, the writing is cheesy, the suspension of disbelief required is high. This book specifically had much more of a YA feel than I was expecting. I kept thinking something actually supernatural was going to happen, but I guess I was supposed to believe that everything that occurred could have happened in our actual world. A personal pet peeve was the amount of misinformation regarding wolf pack structure and the myth of the alpha wolf being perpetuated, as well as the assertion that humans are "raised by wolves" all the time. It was a really quick read, and for people who might struggle with reading dense, literary fiction, I think these kinds of books serve an important purpose. I will probably give an early Patterson a try, one that he wrote (mostly) by himself. But I won't be adding him to my list of authors to read.
May 1, 2025
"Raised by Wolves" offers an engaging narrative that serves as a perfect and quick brain break. The mystery surrounding the origins of the teens and their past captivates the reader, creating a compelling backdrop for their journey into human life. While the book is categorized as a thriller, I don't think the thriller or sinister theme really fits; it's not particularly scary or sinister, aside from the theme of kidnapping that comes into play toward the end.
We mostly go along on the journey of their adjustment to societal norms and normal human life, before delving into the legal complexities that arise later in the story.
The themes of being an outcast, self-discovery, love, and almost a coming-of-age feeling are much stronger than any sense of immediate danger. The mystery of the children's origins and habits linger in the background throughout the narrative, but we eventually receive answers that satisfy our curiosity.
The resolution brings a satisfying conclusion, leaving readers with a sense of hope and curiosity about potential sequels. The blend of mystery and character development makes this book an enjoyable read, especially for those looking to unwind while still being intrigued by the unfolding story.
We mostly go along on the journey of their adjustment to societal norms and normal human life, before delving into the legal complexities that arise later in the story.
The themes of being an outcast, self-discovery, love, and almost a coming-of-age feeling are much stronger than any sense of immediate danger. The mystery of the children's origins and habits linger in the background throughout the narrative, but we eventually receive answers that satisfy our curiosity.
The resolution brings a satisfying conclusion, leaving readers with a sense of hope and curiosity about potential sequels. The blend of mystery and character development makes this book an enjoyable read, especially for those looking to unwind while still being intrigued by the unfolding story.
May 14, 2025
This book was good. However, I am now under the impression that I can befriend a wolf. So if I go missing, it's most likely because I've been mauled to death.
November 22, 2024
I absolutely loved this book and I hope there is a second one coming soon. Kai and Holo are two kids that show up one day out of the blue and are caught in a grocery store tearing up the place and grabbing everything they can to eat. They claim to have been raised by wolves and that they don’t have any parents. Their appearance seems to have the whole town talking and some people to pick on these two kids and to hunt the wolves they claim to have been raised by. Can Kai and Holo learn to fit in with the humans and also save the wolves?
January 25, 2025
This was just the book I needed to get out of my reading funk. I’ve read dozens of James Patterson books and this was nothing like any of them. Oh except for short chapters! Can always count on him for short chapters!
Deserves 5⭐️because of how quickly I got sucked into it, how it kept my attention and how fast I read it.
The ending leaves it open for a second book.
Maybe I should reread the Women’s Murder Club series this year… I’d be sure to hit my reading goal 😝
Deserves 5⭐️because of how quickly I got sucked into it, how it kept my attention and how fast I read it.
The ending leaves it open for a second book.
Maybe I should reread the Women’s Murder Club series this year… I’d be sure to hit my reading goal 😝
March 30, 2025
Was this written by a 11 year old girl? It feels that way. I loved Maximum Ride as a teen girl. Now I’m 32 and I picked up James Patterson again. This wasn’t in the YA section though. So I’m confused why it reads like a hot mess. It’s truly the worst thing I’ve read in a long time. Lines like “are all hot teen guys this conceded?” made me literally cringe. I paid $14 for the dang book at Target and this reminds me why libraries are cool. ☺️😂
November 15, 2024
Bummer. Didn’t care for the story, the writing… overall just not enjoyable and disappointing from an author I typically really like. Would not recommend.
January 26, 2025
No, just no.
May 5, 2025
Thank you to Penguin Random House SA for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
3.5 stars
Raised By Wolves is a fast-paced young adult thriller that opens with a bang—two wild, wordless siblings burst into a small-town grocery store, sparking chaos and suspicion. Kai and Holo are dirty, barefoot, and seemingly feral. They claim they were raised in the forest. And honestly? They might not be wrong.
What follows is an engaging blend of small-town drama, found family dynamics, and sibling loyalty with a primal edge. Taken in by the police chief and his wife, Kai and Holo begin the slow, awkward process of adapting to “normal” life: school, friendships, even dating. These moments of confusion, growth, and quiet tenderness were some of the highlights for me. The bond between the siblings feels real and carries the emotional weight of the story.
But while the premise is strong and the pacing snappy, the plot doesn’t always give its best ideas the space to breathe. The emotional arc of the siblings—especially their psychological adjustment to life among humans—feels a little shallow, and we never get a fully satisfying explanation of their past. Then there’s the introduction of shadowy outside forces—government agents and scientific types who want to control or study Kai and Holo—which should raise the stakes but instead feel more like a last-minute injection of tension than a natural development. These characters remain vague and underdeveloped, which weakens the impact of the climax.
Still, this novel has enough heart and momentum to make it a worthwhile read for fans of YA thrillers, especially those who enjoy stories about outsiders navigating unfamiliar worlds. Raised By Wolves isn’t flawless, but it’s wild, weird, and deeply readable.
3.5 stars
Raised By Wolves is a fast-paced young adult thriller that opens with a bang—two wild, wordless siblings burst into a small-town grocery store, sparking chaos and suspicion. Kai and Holo are dirty, barefoot, and seemingly feral. They claim they were raised in the forest. And honestly? They might not be wrong.
What follows is an engaging blend of small-town drama, found family dynamics, and sibling loyalty with a primal edge. Taken in by the police chief and his wife, Kai and Holo begin the slow, awkward process of adapting to “normal” life: school, friendships, even dating. These moments of confusion, growth, and quiet tenderness were some of the highlights for me. The bond between the siblings feels real and carries the emotional weight of the story.
But while the premise is strong and the pacing snappy, the plot doesn’t always give its best ideas the space to breathe. The emotional arc of the siblings—especially their psychological adjustment to life among humans—feels a little shallow, and we never get a fully satisfying explanation of their past. Then there’s the introduction of shadowy outside forces—government agents and scientific types who want to control or study Kai and Holo—which should raise the stakes but instead feel more like a last-minute injection of tension than a natural development. These characters remain vague and underdeveloped, which weakens the impact of the climax.
Still, this novel has enough heart and momentum to make it a worthwhile read for fans of YA thrillers, especially those who enjoy stories about outsiders navigating unfamiliar worlds. Raised By Wolves isn’t flawless, but it’s wild, weird, and deeply readable.
November 23, 2024
Wild and chaotic. What else would one expect from a book titled, Raised By Wolves?! James Patterson is extremely talented in writing about a variety of topics and delivering a story that is engrossing. This story was about two teenagers that appeared out of nowhere, ransacked a small-town grocery and attacked the police officers who came to investigate them and their past.
I loved following Holo and Kai through their quest to be understood. They were complex and well developed characters. I also loved the distinct plot and watching as the mystery behind the teens life was unveiled. The short chapters and seamless writing flow made for a compelling story to listen to.
Patterson is undoubtedly one of the most popular writers for a reason. Raised By Wolves was a sinister and emotional read and unusual as compared to other novels by him. I recommend this eccentric and fascinating tale. If you are a James Patterson fan or a first time reader of his, you will be pleasantly entertained by this distinct and diverting mystery. (Audio)
I loved following Holo and Kai through their quest to be understood. They were complex and well developed characters. I also loved the distinct plot and watching as the mystery behind the teens life was unveiled. The short chapters and seamless writing flow made for a compelling story to listen to.
Patterson is undoubtedly one of the most popular writers for a reason. Raised By Wolves was a sinister and emotional read and unusual as compared to other novels by him. I recommend this eccentric and fascinating tale. If you are a James Patterson fan or a first time reader of his, you will be pleasantly entertained by this distinct and diverting mystery. (Audio)
April 26, 2025
4/5 Stars
Raised by Wolves is a gripping and fast-paced thriller that delivers high stakes, suspense, and twists that keep the pages turning. The plot is intense and well-structured. The main storyline is strong, and the action never lets up.
In the small town of kokanee creek two feral teenagers koi and holo are discovered ransacking a local grocery store. They are barefoot, covered in dirt and exhibit animalistic behaviour of a wolf. Claiming to be raised by wolves, their sudden appearance sparks a series of questions and suspicions. Taken in by the local police chief and his wife, the siblings begin to adapt to human society. Attending school and attempting to integrate into community. However their mysterious past and unique upbringing attract dark forces, threatening the safety of everyone around them.
Really enjoyed it was fast read with very short chapters. Overall was a great read I will be trying more of James Patterson books.
Raised by Wolves is a gripping and fast-paced thriller that delivers high stakes, suspense, and twists that keep the pages turning. The plot is intense and well-structured. The main storyline is strong, and the action never lets up.
In the small town of kokanee creek two feral teenagers koi and holo are discovered ransacking a local grocery store. They are barefoot, covered in dirt and exhibit animalistic behaviour of a wolf. Claiming to be raised by wolves, their sudden appearance sparks a series of questions and suspicions. Taken in by the local police chief and his wife, the siblings begin to adapt to human society. Attending school and attempting to integrate into community. However their mysterious past and unique upbringing attract dark forces, threatening the safety of everyone around them.
Really enjoyed it was fast read with very short chapters. Overall was a great read I will be trying more of James Patterson books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2025
A little sad, but an excellent story!
November 12, 2024
What a unique story! Wolves, missing children, FBI, young love-what else could you ask for? Exciting and interesting from page one!
November 14, 2024
I didn't know where this book was going. I love when a book can do that. It truly had me enthralled from the beginning. It was an unusual story about 2 kids rumored to be raised by wolves. Throw in a small town, a little mystery, and you have a good story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing, James Patterson, and Emily Raymond for the opportunity to read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing, James Patterson, and Emily Raymond for the opportunity to read this book.
December 29, 2024
6/5 ⭐️. WOW. Just WOW, I can’t even define this book in one genre because you truly experience a little bit of science fiction, fantasy, thriller, and crime. If you want to try a James Patterson book, PLEASE let it be this one. Has to be the best one I’ve read so far. I feel like this needs to be adapted into a movie, it’ll be a huge hit.
Read
February 22, 2025#RaisedByWolves – James Patterson & Emily Raymond
#PenguinRandomHouse
We insist on the truth and nothing but the truth, but at heart we often prefer the legends and fables; stories contain magical possibilities that facts seldom do.
Very few people – if any – believe that Rome was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus, the twins raised by wolves. The residents of Kokanee Creek, Idaho, certainly don’t. When two children, filthy, barefoot, and dressed in rags, ransack a store on the edge of town, and when apprehended, claim to have been raised by wolves in true mythological fashion, the disbelief does not falter. But the children are certainly different, they seem feral, the younger possessing fanglike sharpened incisors, both resorting to growling and biting when cornered.
The elder is a girl, Kai, estimated around 17 years of age, and the younger her brother, Holo, around 14 years old. Although they have no memory preceding their life in the wild, they are well versed in English, literate, and present with evidence of advanced academic education, but they have never been to school, and do not exist on any data base.
Patterson’s publications will probably fill a small library. Initially known for his high-octane thrillers, he became an outspoken promoter of literacy in later years and has written numerous novels aimed at the young adult market, as well as easy-to-read novels and novellas, with various co-writers, including President Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and the South African, Jassy Mackenzie.
This novel as marketed is fiction, presumably for the adult market, but it will probably be better received by the young adult market. The co-writer, Emily Raymond, is known as a ghostwriter of young adult novels, and Kai, a teenager herself, is the first-person narrator in the chapters where third person narration is not employed. Her experiences of a high school dance, “What’s so important about jumping around in the dark with a bunch of people you don’t like?” (284) will appeal to her age group, rather than adults.
The writing is uncomplicated, but not patronizing, and several descriptions are expertly done, for example: “I see the way the news hits… - not quickly, like a blow, but like a weight slowly pressing down, harder and harder, until it threatens to crush her.” (251)
The novel is a speculative Romulus and Remus meeting Peter Pan, but, although there is a Wendy, Never-Never-Land is an Idaho forest, and Captain Hook is a mean farmer with a fondness for shooting.
And it reminds the reader that happy endings are possible in stories.
#Uitdieperdsebek
#PenguinRandomHouse
We insist on the truth and nothing but the truth, but at heart we often prefer the legends and fables; stories contain magical possibilities that facts seldom do.
Very few people – if any – believe that Rome was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus, the twins raised by wolves. The residents of Kokanee Creek, Idaho, certainly don’t. When two children, filthy, barefoot, and dressed in rags, ransack a store on the edge of town, and when apprehended, claim to have been raised by wolves in true mythological fashion, the disbelief does not falter. But the children are certainly different, they seem feral, the younger possessing fanglike sharpened incisors, both resorting to growling and biting when cornered.
The elder is a girl, Kai, estimated around 17 years of age, and the younger her brother, Holo, around 14 years old. Although they have no memory preceding their life in the wild, they are well versed in English, literate, and present with evidence of advanced academic education, but they have never been to school, and do not exist on any data base.
Patterson’s publications will probably fill a small library. Initially known for his high-octane thrillers, he became an outspoken promoter of literacy in later years and has written numerous novels aimed at the young adult market, as well as easy-to-read novels and novellas, with various co-writers, including President Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and the South African, Jassy Mackenzie.
This novel as marketed is fiction, presumably for the adult market, but it will probably be better received by the young adult market. The co-writer, Emily Raymond, is known as a ghostwriter of young adult novels, and Kai, a teenager herself, is the first-person narrator in the chapters where third person narration is not employed. Her experiences of a high school dance, “What’s so important about jumping around in the dark with a bunch of people you don’t like?” (284) will appeal to her age group, rather than adults.
The writing is uncomplicated, but not patronizing, and several descriptions are expertly done, for example: “I see the way the news hits… - not quickly, like a blow, but like a weight slowly pressing down, harder and harder, until it threatens to crush her.” (251)
The novel is a speculative Romulus and Remus meeting Peter Pan, but, although there is a Wendy, Never-Never-Land is an Idaho forest, and Captain Hook is a mean farmer with a fondness for shooting.
And it reminds the reader that happy endings are possible in stories.
#Uitdieperdsebek
December 9, 2024
RAISED BY WOLVES was a book that immediately caught my eye, simply because I've been in a really weird thriller vibe. And even though this had some questionable moments, I definitely devoured it.
First thing I will say is that this felt entirely like a young adult novel. The characters are younger and face certain situations that scream YA Contemporary to me. I enjoyed it for what it was and had a good time, but I know some people might jump into this one and be surprised--especially since this is categorized as adult at my bookstore.
The mystery behind the story helped propel the plot forward, making it a quick read since I just really wanted to know why and how these kids had survived in the woods with wolves, but also how they were about to be so educated, but have very little human interaction.
The book itself was admittedly a bit simple, but I sometimes like these mindless reads because they're my background noise to doing chores or commuting to work.
The winning part of this book was definitely the sibling relationship between the two younger MCs. Their connection, how much they trust each other and help each other succeed was sweet and a great balm against the judgment and bullying that they received every day in their new life.
I don't know how I feel about the ending. A part of me thinks it was incredibly rushed and the people who should have faced consequences for their actions didn't even get a reprimand. I was actively angry for a chunk of the book because of how awful some of these characters were to the siblings. This was like a world with no consequences, where being bullied was seen as a brushed off offence, all because these kids are seen as "wild". It was gross and I wish we got to see some justice being paid, even though I know that's not always the case in real like.
But we even see with some of the perspectives in this book how easy it is to put your hopes and expectations on kids, even when you know they're not your children. And just this general idea that because these two are kids, they don't have the mental strength to make their own decisions.
And that being said, I DID actually think the FMC was pretty cool in how she was able to defend herself.
Anyway, I'd recommend this if you want a book with mystery, wolves, familial situations, and two characters who will go through hoops to find their freedom from the expectations put on them. But be prepared for the horrible comments and bullying they face within these pages.
Happy reading!
First thing I will say is that this felt entirely like a young adult novel. The characters are younger and face certain situations that scream YA Contemporary to me. I enjoyed it for what it was and had a good time, but I know some people might jump into this one and be surprised--especially since this is categorized as adult at my bookstore.
The mystery behind the story helped propel the plot forward, making it a quick read since I just really wanted to know why and how these kids had survived in the woods with wolves, but also how they were about to be so educated, but have very little human interaction.
The book itself was admittedly a bit simple, but I sometimes like these mindless reads because they're my background noise to doing chores or commuting to work.
The winning part of this book was definitely the sibling relationship between the two younger MCs. Their connection, how much they trust each other and help each other succeed was sweet and a great balm against the judgment and bullying that they received every day in their new life.
I don't know how I feel about the ending. A part of me thinks it was incredibly rushed and the people who should have faced consequences for their actions didn't even get a reprimand. I was actively angry for a chunk of the book because of how awful some of these characters were to the siblings. This was like a world with no consequences, where being bullied was seen as a brushed off offence, all because these kids are seen as "wild". It was gross and I wish we got to see some justice being paid, even though I know that's not always the case in real like.
But we even see with some of the perspectives in this book how easy it is to put your hopes and expectations on kids, even when you know they're not your children. And just this general idea that because these two are kids, they don't have the mental strength to make their own decisions.
And that being said, I DID actually think the FMC was pretty cool in how she was able to defend herself.
Anyway, I'd recommend this if you want a book with mystery, wolves, familial situations, and two characters who will go through hoops to find their freedom from the expectations put on them. But be prepared for the horrible comments and bullying they face within these pages.
Happy reading!
February 20, 2025
Having recently discovered the writing of the famous James Patterson, I opted to read the latest collaboration with author, Emily Raymond, with the interesting title, Raised by wolves. I am now left with a conundrum: what genre would best describe this novel? It has elements of a thriller, suspense, adventure, even a beautiful and unusual love story. It can also comfortably fit the Young Adult bill.
Relationships are key in the plot, be it between people, people and nature, people and animals. And in particular, between humans and wolves. “There is a language, somewhere between human and wolf, that they alone speak.” (p.305) The author closely explores the dynamics within family and the roles assumed in a group, and continually draws comparisons between humans and wolves. “Anger’s a human thing. So is regret – and revenge.” (p.120)
The day that two teenagers emerge from the woods and ransack a grocery store, many lives are changed for ever. I will not divulge and more, for fear of spoiling the read. The story evolves slowly but interestingly, with a definite and dramatic plot twist that left me surprised, just about halfway through the book. Die-hard Patterson readers might find it too easy on suspense, but I enjoyed the easy read and engaging plot. I could not foresee the end, and must admit that I choked up.
Raised by wolves is a product of Penguin Books, distributed in South Africa by Penguin Random House SA.
Relationships are key in the plot, be it between people, people and nature, people and animals. And in particular, between humans and wolves. “There is a language, somewhere between human and wolf, that they alone speak.” (p.305) The author closely explores the dynamics within family and the roles assumed in a group, and continually draws comparisons between humans and wolves. “Anger’s a human thing. So is regret – and revenge.” (p.120)
The day that two teenagers emerge from the woods and ransack a grocery store, many lives are changed for ever. I will not divulge and more, for fear of spoiling the read. The story evolves slowly but interestingly, with a definite and dramatic plot twist that left me surprised, just about halfway through the book. Die-hard Patterson readers might find it too easy on suspense, but I enjoyed the easy read and engaging plot. I could not foresee the end, and must admit that I choked up.
Raised by wolves is a product of Penguin Books, distributed in South Africa by Penguin Random House SA.
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