Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Hefty, exciting, violent fantasy of human and animal allies.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
MOON CHOSEN tells of three societies in the distant future, as the Earth recovers from mysterious apocalyptic events in the past. Mari, 18, is an Earth Walker whose people live in burrows just outside the forest. Nik, 23, is a member of the tree-dwelling Sun Tribe, who form strong, lifelong bonds with dogs. And in the crumbling ruins of an ancient city live the Skin Stealers, who suffer from a skin disease and who heal themselves by capturing Mari and Nik's people. Mari's always known she was different from the other Earth Walkers and has had to hide her differences or risk being ousted by her Clan. But when she discovers that she's actually only half Earth Walker, the uneasy balance among the three groups begins to shift. But whether it's toward one group over another, or toward something totally new and unknown, is something no one can predict.
Is It Any Good?
Fantasy fans, especially dog lovers, will enjoy chewing on this meaty series debut from veteran author P.C. Cast. Teens who can handle the fantasy violence and strong language will get immersed in Moon Chosen's vast, unique, vivid, and richly imagined world populated with fascinating characters and societies. Mari and Nik are easy to root for as they face the challenges of emerging into adulthood at a time of great upheaval.
The first 100 pages or so are a bit overwrought, as though author Cast is trying too hard to manufacture emotional connections quickly and to establish an admittedly immense fantasy world. But hang in there, because as soon as Rigel makes his appearance, action, heartbreak, tragedy, and adventure keep the pages turning right up to the cliffhanger ending.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Moon Chosen. Does the fantasy setting make it more or less scary? Why?
What about the strong language? Does it add to the story or characters, especially in a fantasy setting? If so, what does it add, and why?
Are you hoping the series will continue? What do you think will happen in the next book?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Dr. Hilary Costello
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Animals , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : St. Martin's Griffin
- Publication date : October 18, 2016
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 608
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate