The Cloven Thief

by Kelsey Wooley

With their horns sharp and hooves swift, new heroes will rise to the quest…

In the mystical realm of the Wilds, Pan, a clumsy, but good-hearted young faun of the Clovernest Herd, is excited to finally be old enough to become a Full Horn. He’ll be able to help protect his herd and their valley home…and hopefully finally gain some respect among his herdkin. But due to Pan’s foolish judgment, his herd’s peaceful life is thrown into chaos when their greatest treasure, a magical lute of fantastical power, is stolen by the young satyr, Hobkin.

To atone for his grave mistake, Pan, along with his headstrong sister Omelia, must journey away from the safety of Clovernest to track the thief into the depths of the grand Hollowshade Forest. But evil forces are brewing within these ancient woods…a faun is missing and wicked, blood-thirsty satyrs are roaming about. It will take all the bravery and strength within Pan, Omelia, and their allies to stop a great danger from spreading…not just to their herds but to all across the Wilds.

The debut fantasy novel of animation story artist Kelsey Wooley, who also provides illustrations for readers of all ages to enjoy.

327 pages, ebook

Expected publication September 25, 2026

About the author

Kelsey Wooley is a storyboard artist, director, and illustrator who has worked on several animated productions such as Disney's "Sofia the First: Royal Magic" and Nickelodeon’s "Santiago of the Seas." She has also drawn comics for "The Loud House" & "The Casagrandes" graphic novel series from Papercutz Publishing. When she isn’t doodling, writing, and daydreaming about critters going on fantastical adventures, she is busy volunteering to take care of a herd of very mischievous goats at Safarmi Sanctuary. Though originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she currently lives in Los Angeles, California.

Reviews

[Kacey Huang · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was one of the first test readers for this book and I was highly impressed! It's written in a format that is easy for young readers and puts them into the magical world of Fauns and Satrys, creatures that aren't usually portrayed as main characters in fantasy stories.
The tale itself is not complicated. A sacred magical lute is stolen from the main character (Pan's) village and he has to go on an epic journey, along with headstrong older sister, to retrieve it. However, the beautiful imagery of the world and the magical creatures in it help breath life into the story. It also features an array of colorful characters, that are reminiscent to characters from Brian Jacques' famous "Redwall" book series.
I found this story touches on many themes that children will be able to relate to: sibling envy, prejudice against unfamiliarities, self-doubt and learning how to face challenges with courage and the help of others.
Overall, this book deserves a read and is a good starter book for kids trying to dip their toes into the fantasy genre.