Children's Literature - Elizabeth Fronk

The fourth installment in the “Spirit Animals” series finds Maya, Meilin, Conor and Rollan travelling north across the Northern Eura. They all travel with a “spirit animal” that has unique powers. Meilin grieves for her father’s recent death but also hopes to avenge him in killing the “Devourer,” presumably the evil and ruthless creature that opens this adventure. Soon, they arrive at Samis, an unusual village where no one appears old. The four travelers explain they are looking for Suka, a giant polar bear. They journey on to a village across a narrow channel and the travelling is very treacherous. As supplies dwindle, they see the Ice City where they hope to find Suka. With the help of their spirit animals, they find Suka but still must work to end the Devourer and its followers. Hints of romance between Meilin and Rollan and scars from previous battles pave the way for a fifth installment. For those unfamiliar with this series, it may be difficult to learn much about any of the four travelers or the extent of their mission. While this chapter book can appeal to readers in middle grades and to some reluctant young adults, it is rather confusing if one is unfamiliar with the other books. Fans of the series can enjoy the return of familiar characters and look forward to a fifth installment. A companion website with activities and games is another draw to series’ fans. Reviewer: Elizabeth Fronk; Ages 9 to 12.