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Saturday, December 12, 2020

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wisp, written by Jonathan Auxier and illustrated by Olga Demidova. Puffin, Penguin Random House. 2020. $16.99 ages 7 and up

 

"Auggie opened his pack and looked for something to distract the hounds.
He reached into his Horn of Plenty and pulled out -
A BONE!
The most delicious, mouthwatering, chewable bone that ever was.
"

Auggie lives at the top of the world, where he spends his days at a job many children would love to have. There are magical and mysterious creatures living at the Fabled Stables. Auggie is their caregiver, assuring they are fed appropriate meals and snacks, while also setting the animals free for 'hurly-burly hour'. The animals are released to frolic wherever their spirit moves them, up until it is time for a snack. Auggie loves the work, but he is the only boy on the island, and he is lonely. 

Expecting a new arrival, the stables prepare a space. The arrival of Willa the Wisp provides the company Auggie needs. However, Willa is being pursued by hounds and three hunters. Auggie makes it his business to keep Willa safe. What follows is a wild ride for all, as the continual action is full of suspense and danger. Auggie does his best to provide protection. 

Artwork by Olga Demidova is filled with action and fantastic notions. It seamlessly makes Mr. Auxier's storytelling come to full and gripping life as Auggie does a superb job of what he has been tasked to do. He even manages a short trip to the moon, where he finds just what Willa needs to sustain her feisty and friendly self. 

Now that the evil Rooks are back in this magical world, protective work ahead is assured. A sequel is expected in May 2021.  
                                                                         


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