Puffin Books, 2010
ISBN: 978-0670013302
Available: New
Curtis Jobling is the creator of the children’s television show “Bob the Builder”, but with his young adult novel Wereworld, he’s gone in an entirely different direction. Wereworldintroduces us to Drew, who turns into a werewolf after he is attacked by one. The beast kills his mother, and his father, stumbling onto the scene, thinks Drew did it and stabs him (non-fatally, of course, or there would be no book). Drew finds his way to Hogan, a boy about his age, and his skeptical father. On his travels, Drew is captured by the guards of Duke Bergan, a werelord who can shift at will between his wolf and human forms. The Duke reveals that Drew is the last of the werewolves. When Drew has his final showdown with the novel’s villain, it will make readers root even harder for the teenage protagonist.
This is a fast-paced coming of age story with an inside look at becoming a werewolf. Teens will find Drew easy to cheer for, because he’s very much an underdog and his story and struggles are compelling. This is the sort of book that is a great recommendation for teenage boys, although girls will enjoy Drew’s sensitive and caring character, as well. It’s the sort of thing they’ll read under the covers with a flashlight.
The familiar elements of epic fantasy will be comfortable for younger readers, as will the action-adventure oriented plot, with princes, princesses, castles, and kingdoms. It’s refreshing to see a wholesome adventure story with rich, page-turning mythology and world-building. The novel ends on a note that suggests a sequel, and readers will want to know what happens next. Highly recommended for upper elementary, middle school, and high school collections and for teen collections in public libraries. Ages 10 and up.
Contains: violence
Reviewed by: Darkeva