Will Wolfheart

Will's best friend is his dog, Whisker, but since his family have moved house, Whisker has to live with Will's Gran where Will goes to stay every weekend to spend time with his beloved dog. One afternoon, Will and Whisker are magically transported to Wolf World; Whisker has become a wolf and he and Will can speak to each other. As their time there unfolds, they meet other wolves - Maple Pack, led by Ember, and they learn that Whisker has been summoned there for a very important reason. They must battle the vicious wolves in Flint Pack so that Whisker can fulfil his destiny and repair the damaged Wolf World. This

Will Wolfheart is a lovely book, the author perfectly portrays the relationship between Will and Whisker and shows the joys and sorrows that come with owning a dog. She deals sympathetically with the idea of loss and grief, without being mawkish.

Will is brave and loyal, he will do anything for Whisker and loves the fact that they can now communicate. Whisker is funny and silly, but, when he becomes a wolf, he finds an inner strength and fights to protect his new wolf friends. We also meet Clara, a human girl who is grievingd for her dog, Daisy. She envies Will's close bond with Whisker, but the two become friends as they work together to help Maple Pack find a new den.

Wolf World is beautifully described, with its three Moons and changing skyscapes it is a magical land, but it is also full of danger. The story is fast-paced and exciting and the action never flags as the two wolf packs go to war. Special mention must go to illustrator, Adam Beer - his beautifully simple black and white illustrations perfectly capture the love between a boy and his dog.

This is a very moving novel, any dog-lover will warm to Whisker and his Master Will. With its themes of love, loss, family and loyalty it is a book to treasure. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Beverley Somerset, School Librarian

Suggested Reading Age 9+