This book is a fitting conclusion to an epic and underrated children's series...except, its not a conclusion. I was immensely surprised to hear of the third and fourth books to follow and thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the series. that aside, this book makes since as the middle of the series, a turning-point of sorts. The conflict of this book really feels a bit more grown-up than its predecessors. This book takes the focus away from Urchin and turns to the turmoil of the island itself when disease and disaster strike. Captain Husk's ghost plays an integral role in the story's plot and the understanding of the characters within. Epic battles and saddening deaths make this book a page-turner. The slight issue I have is the lessened action due to the focus on the bizarre kidnapping. And another odd thing about this book is the title. Considering that 4 of the five books in the series begin with 'Urchin (and/of)' and this one does not, its a bit odd and makes the book feel slightly disjointed in a listing of titles. But, that aside, everything else about this book, aesthetically, is epic. The cover art and interior chapter art is amazing and fits well with the book's tone. Overall, this is a must-read that will likely go unread by far to many people. Mistmantle is a series that deserves more popularity than it has. McAllister is a master of writing and, more importantly, of characters.
What begins as a joyous, celebratory time for the creatures of Mistmantle soon turns into a time of testing their courage, wisdom, love and loyalty. The island and its inhabitants are again beset by forces of nature and evil that threaten their lives, their homes and the very way they live together. Kidnapping, floods, disease and the whispered return or Husk bring out the best and worst of the creatures of MistmantletJoin King Crispin, Queen Cedar, the Circle of Animals and, of course, Urchin, Needle, Juniper and Sepia as they struggle to grow in themselves and keep Mistmantle the wonderous place it is.Science: In this story, herbs were used for healing as well as eating. Try growing some herbs of your own as well as learn about their medicinal uses.
What do You think about The Heir Of Mistmantle (2007)?
The Heir of Mistmantle is the third in the Mistmantle Chronicles series. The basic storyline of all the novels is that a group of animals (mostly squirrels, otters and moles) live on the island of Mistmantle and through the course of the books something bad/mysterious happens and everything is sorted out by the end. This reminds me of a more juvenile version of the Redwall books by Brian Jacques - there is less fighting, but still interesting animal characters. Overall, I think the series is good, but I think The Heir of Mistmantle was not the best one.
—Jessica
