Forest of Secrets

October 1, 2003
Warriors: Forest of Secrets by Erin Hunter is the third title in the series about warring clans of feral cats. Food is scarce, so tensions escalate between the four clans of the forest, and young Fireheart suspects the loyalty of his own ThunderClan deputy, Tigerclaw.

October 1, 2003
Gr 5 Up-As this third book in this series begins, Fireheart, former house pet turned warrior cat, continues to be torn between his allegiance to his Thunderclan and his suspicions that Tigerclaw is planning to take over as its leader. When Fireheart gets proof of his deceit and presents his findings to the clan's wise and compassionate leader, she refuses to believe him. Tensions are already running high between the clans because the cats are getting sick from fish from the polluted rivers, flooding is widespread, and they must invade each other's territory for food. The tragic death of Graystripe's mate as she's giving birth and his betrayal of the clan by loving a cat from an enemy clan bring the simmering tensions to a boil as both groups claim rights to the kits. Other secrets come to light as Tigerclaw, exiled in disgrace, vows revenge and Fireheart becomes the new deputy. This exciting book is not for the faint of heart as it is often violent. It is reminiscent of Greek drama, with its huge cast of characters (a chart of allegiances is included), intrigues, divided loyalties, star-crossed lovers, and parents murdering their offspring. Fans of the series will lap it up while impatiently awaiting the next entry.-Sharon Rawlins, Piscataway Public Library, NJ

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 15, 2003
Gr. 6-9. Following " Fire and Ice" [BKL Ag 03], this third book in the Warriors series finds the cat Firepaw still suspicious of Tigerclaw, the deputy to the leader of ThunderClan. For his part, Tigerclaw continues to have it in for Firepaw, and as Firepaw investigates the death of ThunderClan warrior Redtail, a number of secrets are revealed--to the dismay of many clan members. Hunter adds to the mix a devastating flood, shifting alliances between clans, treachery within and without ThunderClan, and attempted murder--a combination that makes for another dynamic episode sure to please series fans.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)

squirrelflight - An epic adventure...fantastic and nicely written, it brings life to the great animal world. Very thrilling, and definitely recommended! Fireheart is settling in to his life as a Clan cat. A tyrant leader from another Clan has finally been defeated, and new friendships are formed. Fireheart has strong bond with each of his Clanmates--they have all started to trust him. But after uncovering a shocking secret, he knows he must reveal it. Someone in the Clan is a traitor...and waits in anticipation to plan their next move. He is evil--and Fireheart knows it, even if no cat will believe him. Meanwhile, he learns that his best friend has been sneaking off to meet a cat from a rival Clan, which forces him to make a decision that will change his life forever. As the Clan starts to crumble, can Fireheart hold it together? Or will their legacy fade? Read this book to find out!