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The Hound of Rowan (The Tapestry, Book 1)
By: Henry H. Neff
My Rating: Four out of five stars
Best For: 10 and up (and adults who love a good middle-grade adventure!)

Unleash the Hound! A Content-Aware Book Review of The Hound of Rowan

Calling all fans of magical schools, mythical creatures, and heart-pounding adventure! Look no further than The Hound of Rowan, the first book in Henry H. Neff’s captivating Tapestry series. This book is a delicious literary mashup, blending the enchantment of Fablehaven with the wizarding wonder of Harry Potter and a dash of X-Men’s mutant mayhem.

What’s it about?

Our hero, Max McDaniels, is just your average kid (or so he thinks) until a fateful encounter with a mysterious tapestry throws his world upside down. Suddenly, he’s whisked away to Rowan Academy, a secret school for kids with extraordinary abilities. Think: mastering ancient languages, wielding elemental magic, and communicating with mythical beasts.

But Rowan Academy isn’t all fun and games. A sinister evil lurks in the shadows, and Max finds himself caught in a battle against forces that threaten to consume the world. With a band of loyal friends by his side, he must unravel ancient prophecies, confront terrifying creatures, and discover the true potential of his own unique powers.

Why I howled with delight:

Fablehaven vibes, but with a twist: If you loved the magical preserves and hidden creatures of Fablehaven, you’ll adore the world Neff creates in The Hound of Rowan. It’s brimming with fantastical beasts, secret societies, and ancient lore.
A magical school that rivals Hogwarts: Who cares if it’s a blatant copy-cat? It’s fun! Rowan Academy is a place where magic and mayhem collide. Get ready for thrilling classes, quirky teachers, and a healthy dose of schoolyard rivalry (with a magical twist, of course!).
Characters you’ll root for: Max is a relatable and courageous protagonist, and his friends are a diverse and engaging bunch. You’ll find yourself cheering them on every step of the way.
Unexpected twists and turns: Neff keeps you guessing with a plot that’s full of surprises. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, BAM! He throws a curveball your way.
A celebration of middle-grade fiction: In a world saturated with YA dystopias, it’s refreshing to find a middle-grade novel that’s this imaginative, exciting, and well-written.

Content Watchouts:

Mild violence: There are some action-packed scenes with mythical creatures and magical battles, but the violence is age-appropriate and not graphic.
Mild language: A few “darn its” and “geez louise’s” might slip out, but nothing that will make you blush.

Should you read it?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced, and imaginative adventure, The Hound of Rowan is the perfect escape. It’s a fantastic choice for middle-grade readers, and adults who enjoy a good dose of magic and whimsy will find plenty to love as well.

Final Verdict:

The Hound of Rowan is a thrilling and enchanting read that will leave you wanting more. It’s a testament to the power of imagination and the enduring appeal of middle-grade fantasy. So, grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to be swept away on a magical journey!

This Dad says best for 10 and up.

Happy Reading!