The Mad Wolf's Daughter

Starred review from January 8, 2018
Set in a rugged Scottish landscape in the early 13th century, debut author Magras’s tale of courage and heroism centers on Drest, the youngest child and only daughter of Grimbol, the dreaded Mad Wolf of the North. As fierce Drest becomes a legend in her own right, she must confront difficult truths about her family’s storied past. Always protected by her father and five brothers, Drest has never ventured far from the headlands she calls home, but when her family is captured by knights from Faintree Castle, she must rely on her warrior training and intellect to save them. Traveling with a wounded knight abandoned by the enemy contingent, Drest has five days to reach the castle and trade the knight for her family’s freedom. Drest’s drive to help those in need wins her devoted allies, including a canny boy named Tig and his raven companion. Empathetic, bold, and entirely herself at a time when women were dismissed as weak, Drest shines in this fast-paced adventure. Ages 9–12. Agent: Adriann Ranta Zurhellen, Foundry Literary + Media.

Joshua Manning narrates the medieval Scottish tale of the fierce, young heroine Drest, who must rescue her family from a castle prison after they're taken by knights. To get herself to the castle, she takes along a young knight, who at first is her captive. Drest has to muster her courage and use the abilities that her war-band family has taught her along the way. When she thinks of how her brothers and father would advise her in various situations, Manning creates a distinct voice for each of them. He uses the Scots accent with restraint and doesn't let it intrude on the listening experience. Manning portrays characters the listener can connect with, creating a memorable listening experience. C.G. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine