The Treehouse Heroes & the Forgotten Beast

K-Gr 3—In this ecological fable that takes place "long ago, in a far-east land," the forests and rivers are populated with mythological beasts. As the villages expand and destroy their habitats, however, the beasts flee, leaving behind one last enchanted Zez-a sort of guardian spirit of the land. As the Zez roams the forest seeking a new home, she discovers the arboreal home of the Treehouse Heroes-a group of five superheroes-in-training. Their leader, a wise old man known as The Teacher, is preparing them to "help others." The Zez lives with them until she is captured by the forces of the evil General Moon, but the group uses its magical powers to free her and defeat the General. The Zez then uses her magic to start healing the land. While ecological tales may be in demand right now, the writing in this case is average, the pacing is jerky, and the concepts are tired. The artwork, in contrast, is charming and vibrant. Created by a veteran animator, it recalls the stylized landscapes and figures in The Secret of Kells. Additional, at best.—Rachael Stein, Eastern Shore Regional Library, Salisbury, MD