Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Action-packed, violent, absorbing, heartfelt fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
WILLA OF THE WOOD is a member of the Faeran clan, an ancient people who've lived in the Great Smoky Mountains for longer than anyone can count. But as the world around them changes and their population dwindles, the Faeran are losing their connection to the old ways. Willa is one of the very few left with a magical, ancient connection to the woods, the mountains, and the wildlife. And now the new, godlike leader of the clan not only rules with an iron fist, but also is deliberately separating the Faeran from everything that connected them to the past. Out on a night raid, Willa has a close encounter with a human named Nathaniel, which sets in motion a chain of events that will change the Faeran, and the mountains, forever.
Is It Any Good?
This exciting, sometimes violent fantasy strikes a terrific balance between page-turning action and thoughtful, heartfelt emotion that will appeal to a broad audience. Willa of the Woods offers something for lovers of nature, animals, magical fantasy, dystopia, action, and adventure. Characters, especially Willa, are well developed, admirable, and relatable. Readers of the Serafina books will enjoy it, too. It's a lot less spooky, although evil, darkness, and danger have to be confronted. It's equally steeped in, and evocative of, the Great Smoky Mountains, and fosters a sense of adventure, wonder, awe, and even reverence for the natural world.
The pacing flags a bit in the middle, and some of the environmental messages seem a bit heavy-handed. It's best for big kids and up who are ready for frights, chills, direct but non-gory descriptions of violence, and even some heartbreak. The ending is satisfying while leaving room for more of Willa's adventures.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Willa of the Wood. Is it too much? Were there times you were really scared or upset? What did you do to feel better?
What do you like about Willa? What are her strengths and weaknesses?
What are some ways you can feel more connected to nature? Why is it so important to preserve and protect it?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Disney-Hyperion
- Publication date : July 10, 2018
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 384
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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