Beast Keeper

Beasts of Olympus #1

by Lucy Coats

What begins as just another ordinary day for Demon ends up being far from normal . . . because travelling on a rainbow to Mount Olympus is a bit odd for anyone, even if your dad is the Greek god Pan! When he arrives, Demon is in for a shock. The stables are full of mythical beasts like the flatulent Cattle of the Sun and a very grumpy Griffin. All Demon's animal husbandry skills, polished on his mother's farm on Earth, are going to be put to a rather exacting test as he tries to sort out the chaos and deal with the upset and concern of the gods. Can the stableboy help the Nemean lion that Heracles has hurt, and avoid incurring Hera's wrath if he can't heal her pet Hydra . . .

The first in a delightful action-packed four-book series, acclaimed writer Lucy Coats uses her original and funny voice to bring to life the gods, goddesses and mythical beasts of the ancient Greek pantheon.

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Middle Grade, Childrens, Fiction, Chapter Books, Juvenile

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2015

About the author

In 2015 I have 6 upcoming titles, 4 books in the brand-new Beasts of Olympus series from Piccadilly Press (Grosset and Dunlap/Penguin Young Readers in the USA), an early reader called The Little Green Drum from Orion and my first proper YA novel, Cleo, from Orchard. Cleo is a mixture of historical and paranormal, and follows the teenage Cleopatra on her journey to become pharaoh. I'm very excited about it indeed!

I was born in a small village in Hampshire, England. I loved reading from an early age, and was never found without some kind of book in my hand from the time I could turn and page and make sense of what was written there. My first job was as an editor of children's books, but I soon jumped the fence and started writing my own. My first picture book was published in 1992, and now I write for all ages (two to teen). Atticus the Storyteller's 100 Greek Myths was shortlisted for the BBC Blue Peter Book Award in 2004. It is the most comprehensive collection of Greek myths ever written for children. My first novel, Hootcat Hill which was described as “A lyrical fantasy full of old, dark magic entertainingly bound up with ordinary life.” by the Sunday Times.

The book I would take to a desert island is The Lord of the Rings. I've lost count of how many times I've read it, and I am still finding new things to marvel at in it.

Reviews

[Anna (Ink of Books) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 Sterne! Ziemlich süß und gut für Kinder geeignet!
(Englisch sprechende Kinder 😂)

[Ettelwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Light verze Percyho Jacksona pro ty ještě o kousek mladší 😉

[Miniikaty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reseña completa: https://letraslibrosymas.blogspot.com...

Para los lectores más pequeños este libro está más que recomendado, sobre todo si quieres que empiecen a conocer o ya les fascina la mitología griega. Es un libro muy entretenido, con vocabulario sencillo y unas ilustraciones preciosas que acompañan a la historia de maravilla, lo que hace de la experiencia lectora toda una delicia.
Es genial irse encontrando y conociendo a los diferentes dioses, las variadas criaturas que cuida Demon y los personajes que viven en el Olimpo.


Personalmente me gusta leer de vez en cuando libros más infantiles, ya sea para salir de bloqueos lectores o porque no me importa que sea infantil si la historia me llama aunque sea un poco la atención porque muchas veces me he encontrado con auténticas joyas. Con este libro me paso eso último ya que la mitología me apasiona y no podía dejar pasar la oportunidad de leer esta divertida historia y aunque me ha faltado algo más de aventura sí que me ha parecido un libro original y muy ameno, que cualquier niño o niña puede disfrutar. Tengo curiosidad por ver que pasa en la 2 parte, aunque esté allá quedado bastante cerrado, pues sirve para introducirnos en la historia y conocer a los personajes, creo que los demás libros van a tener mucha más acción y aventuras.

[Westminster Library]

Excellent book for early readers, second to third grade level, with strong
vocabulary building text. This is a good book for younger kids that are
interested in fantasy, specifically mythological creatures, or even just
animals in general. Also, this book doesn't soften the image of the
Olympian Gods, but portrays them closer to the original myths while staying
kid friendly.

ReadAlike: Readers who enjoy the Dragon Masters series will also like this book. A
good read for future fans of the Percy Jackson and Unwanteds series.

Find Beast Keeper at Westminster Public Library today!

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my new favorite beginning chapter book series. It is time to say goodbye to Magic Tree house. Demon is here to keep the animals well cared for, and to give the young reader a grand adventure. Pandemonium (Demon for short) is the half human son of the god Pan. On the day he meets his father, he is taken to Mount Olympus to take care of the stable of mythical creatures. This is a great being series for boys and girls alike. It has adventure, it has vocabulary building, illustrations, and it has heart. I can not wait to read the next in the series.

#MountTBR
#BeattheBacklist

[Charity · Rating 4 out of 5]

any book that my kid devours at age 9 is awesome and this has got him interested in mythology and its a series

[Nicole Bohr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beasts of Olympus: Beast Keeper transports the reader to Greece/Olympus and is introduced to an eleven-year-old half god boy nicknamed “Demon”, a boy who not only cared for the town animals but was also able to communicate and understand them.

One day Demon’s dad, Pan, comes to snatch him away from his mother because the Goddesses of Olympus were complaining of the smell coming from the stables - which mythical creatures were housed.

Along the way Demon gains the trust from these mythical creatures and learns that Hera set Hercules to complete 12 impossible tasks, forewarning Demon that more injured creatures will be on their way.

Eventually through some trials and problem solving, Zeus grants Demon the official title of Beast Keeper.

When searching for middle grade/children mythology novels, I came across this. I judge a book by its cover (shock..I know) and the cover art was too much for me to pass up on the book.

This novel is suppose to be a reading level for 7-9 year olds and some reviews I read didn’t like that Demon is “stolen” from his mother. Granted, I don’t have kids and the ones I know aren’t huge readers so I’m not sure how parents will like their children reading a book about kidnappings and animals getting harmed. But the morale of this story teaches children to be brave, to think logically, and to be respectful.

I am definitely ordering the rest of the series (I believe there are 8 novels so far).

[Zaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice introduction to Greek mythology and its beasts.

I was at the bookstore, trying desperately to find something for my godson. The task was difficult because I want to introduce him to Greek mythology, so I’ll be able to recommend him Percy Jackson when he’s older. Between the lame stories and the too difficult books that need a lot of mythology knowledge or have a high level of language, I was discouraged. Then, I stumbled on the 3rd book of this series, with its obvious "Olympus" title. The 1st pages seemed ok and I liked the art (US artist), so I decided to download the 1st book when I came back home. The read was easy, as expected, and I enjoyed the "veterinary" side of the story, with Demon focused on taking care of the mythical beasts (I didn't like the abuse the beasts suffered before coming there, but at least nobody died). Not many interesting things happened but the book was the occasion to meet various creatures and to hear about some gods or heroes. I appreciated the fact that everything wasn’t mellow, but at the same time was very safe for the hero. The book satisfied my main goal, introducing the young reader to Greek mythology, while delivering a nice story that will probably pease kids around 8 years old.

[Erin Nugent · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a cute story and a good way to introduce Mythology to your kids. My boys liked it but will have to read the others on their own.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this for work but was actually so entertaining!!

[Jyl · Rating 4 out of 5]

So fun. My 11 year couldn't out it down. Can't wait to read the rest of them.

[Betsy Ellor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pandemonius suddenly has his hands full when he unexpectedly becomes the keeper for the stable of the Gods on Olympus. He has to figure out how to keep his magical creatures healthy and happy and keep the gods happy too. That's a lot for an eleven year old!

This a very original take on the greek myths aimed at a middle grade audience. It will pair wonderfully if they have an older sibling or adult in the family that is reading Percy Jackson. Reading it to my five year-old it seemed a little gruesome but it would be fine for someone older. The book reference things like Prometheus being chained to a rock with his liver being eaten every day - it doesn't dwell on those gruesome details but even the reference was a little much for him.

Demon (short for Pandemonius) is fiesty and fun. He is likable, though he seems younger than eleven. George and I didn't find him totally endearing, but we might as the books continue and as he grows into the role. The challenges he faces drive the book, and through those challenges Demon can subtlety teaches about solving problems, not giving up and also managing your temper.

The illustrations are wonderful, funny and add so much to the story. There is a good amount (about 1 every 3 page-turns)

It was a fun quick read. The greek names make the book a challenge to read out loud, and would be a challenge for middle grade reader to sound out, but not impossible. I'm a big fan of greek mythology so this is a fun way to introduce my son to that cast of characters in an age appropriate way.

[Mary Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is adorable! Pandemonius (who goes by Demon) is the half mortal 11 year old son of Pan.
Olympus is short a beast keeper and knowing Demon's live for animals, have asked him to come care for the mythical creatures of mythology.
This was an adorable, quick read (about an hour) that elementary age kids will love! There were some great laugh out loud moments. I will be checking out the next in the series the first chance I get.
This is a book I will be recommending to lots of intermediate age readers!

[Gigli · Rating 4 out of 5]

»»» A compra:
Compra em 2.ª mão na wob.com depois de o livro ter ficado no meu radar quando vi a capa pela primeira vez nas listas de sugestões da Amazon.

»»» A aventura:
Demon é filho do deus grego Pan e de uma humana e o pai nunca lhe ligou, pelo menos é o que ele acha. Sempre viveu com a mãe numa quinta até ao dia em que o pai o vem buscar para crescer no Olimpo.
Inesperadamente, no Olimpo, o jeito que Demon tem com animais leva-o a ficar encarregue dos estábulos dos animais míticos.
Nada como quimeras e hidras para nos fazer crescer rapidamente, juntamente com salvamentos inesperados e o escrutínio de outros deuses que pensam que ele não tem o que é preciso.

»»» Sentimento final:
Aventura encantadora.
Livro bem imaginado, com um personagem fantástico, um miúdo que vai ganhando maturidade e confiança nele próprio à medida que se vai deparando com os dilemas diários de um cuidador de estábulo e de criaturas míticas.
A caixa médica que o ajuda nas questões de saúde das criaturas é “fora da caixa” e o conhecimento de personagens da mitologia grega são um bónus.
Tenho que admitir que ainda agora, a escrever a crítica, me rio quando penso que sempre pensei que o protagonista desta história era uma menina, sem perceber que o desenho na capa é de um rapaz – a minha atenção ao pormenor estava no topo! – qual foi o meu espanto a ler as primeiras páginas!
Livro com algumas ilustrações, esporádicas, que gostava de ter visto um pouco mais, mas isso sou eu que adoro ilustração.

»»» Nota final (capa e outras considerações):
--- [Capa] – Adoro, foi um dos fatores que me fez comprar o livro. Tenho a acrescentar que gosto mais destas capas antigas da coleção do que as das novas edições dos livros, que também são giras, mas que não têm um ar tão grego como estas, mesmo com letras de estilo mais grego (as novas só ganham no aspeto de não me levarem a pensar que o protagonista é uma menina).
--- [Ilustrações] – São poucas, mas nenhuma bate as da capa.

»»» Uma espreitadela:

[Angélique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ce livre est arrivée chez moi, il n'y a pas si longtemps que ça. Je me suis dit que j'allais le garder pour un moment où j'avais besoin d'une lecture simple, rapide et sans prise de têtes. Je l'ai donc lu cette semaine et je fus très heureuse de ma lecture. Je ne connaissais pas du tout cette saga, ni même l'auteure mais c'était une très bonne surprise. Je remercie les éditions Le livre de poche/Hachette pour cet envoi.

Résumons un peu. Démon est un demi-dieu, fils de Pan et d'une mortelle, qui vit une vie (presque) normale. Il n'a ni la force d'Héraclès ni la (quasi) invincibilité d'Achille. Son pouvoir à lui, c'est de parler aux animaux. Comment imaginer que son père débarquerait dans sa vie pour l'emmener sur le Mont Olympe ? Là-haut, Démon sera chargé d'un rôle bien précis : celui de débarrasser les étables divines de leur puanteur monstrueuse, et de soigner les bêtes légendaires des dieux grecs.

Parlons dans un premier temps des personnages. Notre personnage principal n'est autre que Démon, un demi-dieu. C'est un personnage assez complexe pour moi, car je le ressentais comme timide mais qui n'a pas sa langue dans sa poche, courageux mais parfois peureux. Il était quand même très attachant et sympathique. En ce qui concerne Pan, son père, personnellement je ne l'ai pas trop apprécié car il vient chercher son fils mais l'abandonne de nouveau par la suite. On a envie de lui demander s'il fait exprès et s'il veut être détester par son fils. Quoi qu'il en soit, il y a aussi un autre personnage qui est très présent, il s'agit d'Héphaïstos. J'ai beaucoup apprécié ce personnage car il n'hésite pas à aider Démon. On avait l'impression que c'était plus loin le père de Démon que Pan, tellement il était beaucoup plus présent. Il y avait également d'autres personnages présents tels que Héra, Zeus, les « monstres ». Le griffon était fort sympathique également car il était présent pour Démon.

(suite lien ci-joint: http://tinkerbells-readings.blogspot.... )

[James Costello]

Coats, L. (2015). Beast keeper. London: Piccadilly Press.

This is a story about a boy named Demon who really likes all kinds of animals and has the ability to talk to them. One day the gods recognize his passion for animals and put him in charge of taking care of beasts and monsters for them. Turns out it is a pretty dangerous and difficult job, but with some help and a couple magical tools, he soon realizes he loves his job, but will he be good enough to keep it in the eyes of the gods?

Questions:
1. Do you think Demon should be thankful or upset with his father for getting him the job the way he did? Why or why not?
2. Do you think Hephestus made the right decision to let Demon figure out how to cure the hydra by himself even though his life was on the line?
3. Do you think Hera was out to get at Demon because of her mean nature, or do you think Hera was testing him to see how he would do in difficult situations? Explain your answer.
4. Besides Demon's love for animals, are there any other reasons why he might love his job?
5. Heracles was often the one who was harming the animals and making Demon's job very stressful. Do you think Demon should have the right to hurt Heracles if given the chance and teach him a lesson? Why? Explain your reasoning.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meet Pandemonius, aka Demon, the half-God son of Pan, who has just been plucked from his mother's farm and brought up to Olympus to take care of the mythological beasts that the Gods use in their activities amongst mortals.
Initially, the job and creatures are disgusting or mean. Demon's love for the animals only grows and with the help of some naiads, dryads, nymphs and a kindly Hephaestus (the Smith God) as he grows into the Beast Keeper.

If you enjoy Percy Jackson or you want a more light-hearted or humorous take on Greek Myths, this book and its series are for you.
If you are unfamiliar with Greek Myths, don't worry. All of the creatures and deities backstories or tie-in to the creatures are explained in an easily comprehensible manner.
The illustrations are fun and cartoonish. Truly, this would be a great animated series for kids.
If you are an animal fan or pet lover (especially if you feel ostracized for owning a strange or creepy pet), you will love Demon's story.
Never doubt what you are capable of, who out there can help you, or what wonders in the Animal Kingdom, real or fantastical, are out there, just waiting for you!

[William Gerke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun little book about Pandemonius (aka Demon) the half-god son of Pan who is whisked off to Olympus to care for the mythical creatures there. They are mortal on Earth but immortal in Olympus and the bulk of the book centers around the labors of Heracles where he beats up, dismembers, skins, or nearly kills mythical beast after mythical beast who then end up in the stables where Demon has to figure out how to nurse them back to health. The animal husbandry is fun for the kids (especially my daughter who talks about being a vet) and the inside jokes with Greek and Roman myth kept me engaged. We’ll be requesting the rest of the series from the library and working our way through them.

[Ember Moto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Demon, the demigod son of Pan is apponted as the new beast keeper of olympus. His new job requires him to keep the various pets and monsters of Greek mythology happy and healthy. At the same time he must also keep the stables and various creatures up to the satisfaction of the fickle and tempermental gods or else they might turn Demon into a less then desirable creature. Keeping everyone happy is no easy task lucky Demon has a slight edge being able to speak to animals. perfect for those who are interested in Greek mythology but might be too young for Percy Jackson.

[Allison Turkish · Rating 4 out of 5]

My expectations were very low and maybe that’s part of why I liked this book.

It’s funny. And original.

The main chatter is Pandemonius and is called Demon. I didn’t enjoy the book until I decided to pronounce iiy “De-mone”.

I like the references to Greek gods and some advanced vocabulary. Could have done without the word “stupid” being repeated several times.

Overall, I found the book entertaining and educational as far as Greek mythology goes.

[Hannah Belyea · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pandemonius, better known as Demon, is the demi-god son of Pan, who brings him to Olympus when Zeus and the other Gods seek a new stable boy - but proving himself will mean caring for a menagerie of dangerous beasts, or else facing the wrath of the Olympians! Coats and Bean offer young readers an interesting premise and sharp illustrations steeped in approachable mythological imagery and lore. Is Demon ready to utilize his gift with animals for the likes of monsters?

[Christina Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would be perfect for ages 7-9, especially anyone studying Ancient Greece. I really like how this gives the other side of the story with the mystical beasts arriving back in Olympus to recover after being 'killed' by Greek heroes in the world below. I could see this being very popular with my Year 3 class so have put a few copies in our book corner.

[Tara Ethridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute, fast, fun read for 3rd-5th, I would say. Demon, Pan's son, is taken to Olympus to be the beast keeper as he can talk to animals. Hurt animals are brought to him, and he must find ways to cure them. Older kids will love it bc it's a bit grisly with heads being cut off and such, and it's a sweet story.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Percy Jackson meets Nathaniel Fludd Beastologist in this delightful series that is sure to introduce more young readers to Greek mythology

2017 Reading Challenge: A book involving a mythological creature

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kind of cute, though some of the animals are a bit bloodthirsty, and the gods are certainly not portrayed in a great light. Demon was a little on the whiny side at times, but overall I think young readers will enjoy it.

[Bryanna Rorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute beginning chapter book that follows the the adventures of “Demon”. He is able to talk to animals Which comes in handy since he is a new stable boy on Mount Olympus. This along with the strange demands of the goods and goddesses cause Demon no end of hilarious Hijinx.

[Candra Hodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute book about a kid (not teen) demi-god. The book is written for middle schoolers in a way but does have larger words and grown up themes at times. No sex of course though. I would compare it to the Percy Jackson series.

[The Book Girl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty cute. Review to come.

[Caren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good choice for 3/4 grades. Greek mythology, fun, and not too long.

[Liana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty silly! I think kids will appreciate the humour, and laugh out loud many times. :)