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Wolven

by Di Toft
325p. 978-0-54517-109-0.
COPY ISBN
Gr 5-8 Nat Carver, 12, lives on the edge of a mysterious forest where rumors of government "experiments" at Helleborine Halt are always town news. For protection as well as companionship, he asks his eccentric grandparents for a dog. Nat is unsure about Woody at first-the animal gazes at him with such intensity that Nat swears he is telepathic. The two form an unbreakable bond, becoming the best of friends. Then Nat's world is turned upside down when he sees Woody transform into a human boy. He discovers that he is a descendant of a noble werewolf clan whose heroic past dates back to medieval times. He is the last of his kind and needs Nat's help. The evil Dr. Gabriel Gruber, leader of the Proteus project, wants to use werewolves as military weapons and Woody is number one on his list. Toft spins an incredible tale full of action, mystery, and suspense. This hair-raising adventure with its fresh perspective on werewolf lore is perfect for audiences not ready for some of the edgier material out there. A satisfying read with a fly-off-the-shelves cover.-"Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.
Promised a puppy by his grandfather, Nat ends up with an unusual-looking dog--that happens to also be a boy. Woody, a "wolven" shape-shifter, may be the last of his kind, and Nat quickly becomes involved in saving him from a local pack of werewolf scientists--and worse. The story's thrills come fast, accompanied by some obvious but enjoyable humor.
The novel is a liberal blend of humor and horror. No situation gets too scary before it’s lightened with a laugh. Di Toft deftly combines realistic and fantastic elements. She creates a unique and believable mythology for the existence of werewolves and never strays from her vision. The hardships that both Nat and Woody have endured—having unstable home lives and feeling like outcasts—make them sympathetic characters. Increasingly high-stakes threats to Woody, Nat, and other characters keep the tension mounting.

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