Common Sense Media Review
Exciting but flawed fantasy series launch.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 24 parent reviews
Parents say this book offers an engaging mix of adventure and fantasy, making it a favorite among families, even though some find certain elements, like violence and specific character portrayals, off-putting. The series is praised for its character development and ability to encourage reluctant readers, though critiques regarding the main characters' dynamics and pacing exist.
- family-friendly
- engaging adventure
- character development
- critiques of violence
- mixed character portrayals
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 76 kid 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?
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
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Shadow Mountain Publishing
- Publication date : August 1, 2006
- Number of pages : 359
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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