The Taken

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

Review Date: February 16, 2017

Review

This is a paperback reissue of the first title of a popular new animal fantasy series. The author is part of the pseudonym Erin Hunter, responsible for the Survivor series. In this series, foxes are the topic. Isla is a young fox who lives on the outskirts of a human metropolitan area. One day Isla returns to her den to find it destroyed, her family missing, and surrounded by mysterious and unfamiliar foxes. Isla flees for her safety and is thrust into the metropolitan world of the humans. She has to navigate that world, while be chased and hunted by unknown foxes. Isla discovers her mysterious and magical power of cunning. She then meets a dog who is not what he seems. What has happened to Isla's family? What will become of Isla? The magic and mystery only deepen. For grades 4-7. This is a detailed and magical world of foxes, some of whom are part of the Taken. There are various alliances, shape shifters, and danger and mystery around every corner. Give to fans of the Warriors and its spin off series all by Erin Hunter, Guardians of Ga'Hoole, and Wolves of Beyond series, both by Kathryn Lasky. Perfect for readers not quite ready for the Redwall series by Brian Jacques. The ending will leave you excited for the next installment. A good purchase for most libraries.

Overall Book Score: good