The Book of Shane

Reviewed by: Deidre Walsh - Goodall Memorial Library, Sanford, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 5, 2016

Review

To start off with, it is a good idea to have read the original Spirit Animals series as well as the spin-off series Fallen Beasts to better understand and appreciate this book. That being said, some kids will still find this enjoyable even if they haven't read the two series. There is an introduction and a small snippet of information at the beginning of each part that help the novice Spirit Animal reader to enjoy the book on its own. The stories in this book were originally published as an e-series of novellas. In this book you learn more about Shane the Devourer and his family. Shane was the principle foe in the original Spirit Animal series. But he didn't start out that way. He was also a friend at times to the four original kids who summoned spirit animals to protect the world. He went through that ceremony himself. In the spin-off series Shane becomes the King of the conquerors and will try to destroy the spirit animals and the world itself. This is a good choice for strong 3rd grade readers through 5th grade readers. There is lots of action and adventure and thrills. It is also an excellent choice for boys who are reluctant readers. Purchase where both series are already in the collection.

Overall Book Score: good