Parents' Guide to

Fablehaven, Book 1

By Matt Berman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 9+

Exciting but flawed fantasy series launch.

Book Brandon Mull Fantasy 2006
Fablehaven, Book 1 Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 9+

Based on 23 parent reviews

Lucas C.
Lucas C. Adult
March 7, 2017
age 10+

Great book, forgivable flaws.

Your review has fair points but is a bit too unforgiving IMO. By the end of the book, Seth has visibly grown as a character. Further into the series, I actually found myself siding with Seth more than his grandfather as he learned to take risks only when it's worth it, etc. (Minor spoiler warning) Also, there are plenty of role models. Ruth comes to mind in particular. Lena, Stanley, and in small ways perhaps Maddox could all be considered good role models for different reasons. (Spoiler warning over) I 100% recommend this book. While it definitely has its flaws, the series is very good.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
Too much violence
2 people found this helpful.
Hannagwozdz
Hannagwozdz Parent of 8 and 11-year-old
May 15, 2021
age 8+

Amazing book

This first book is amazing. I could not put it down. An exciting first book full of adventure. It is a must read.

This title has:

Great role models
1 person found this helpful.
See all 23 parent reviews

What's the Story?

In FABLEHAVEN, 13-year-old Kendra and 11-year-old Seth discover that their grandfather is the caretaker of a sanctuary full of mythical creatures. Ancient laws keep the peace and preserve this gated woods, called Fablehaven, as one of the last strongholds of true magic in the world. Despite his grandfather's warnings, Seth recklessly breaks the rules by not only entering the woods but also capturing a fairy. His actions violate an ancient covenant that protects humans, unleashing an evil and powerful monster that forces a frightened Kendra to dig deep for courage. The siblings race to save their grandfather, restore the alliance with the fairies of Fablehaven, and save the world.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (23 ):
Kids say (75 ):

The plot is simple, the lessons easy to digest, and the action and suspense keep the story colorful and moving along. Fablehaven is the start of a series that's designed to follow the siblings as they grow up, learn from their mistakes (often the hard way), and confront danger to save humanity. While the story's focus on two very immature children with absent parents and overindulgent grandparents may make it hard for some teens and adults to identify with it, younger readers may really connect with and enjoy Kendra and Seth's journey. Mull's character development and world-building slowly turn into a daring and immersive story.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about rule-breaking in Fablehaven. Why is it necessary to understand existing rules before deciding to break them?

  • Fablehaven features a hidden world in the characters' backyard. Why is this idea so popular?

  • Does the idea of hidden worlds seem possible? Have you ever seen anything you couldn't explain?

Book Details

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